So here’s the story: I (April) have never been anywhere. I’ve never toured Europe, I’ve never built a well in a third-world country (though I want to), and I’ve never eaten in a restaurant that didn’t have an English menu.
So how do I raise children who feel at home in the world? How do I prepare my children to work and serve in a global society? How do I create a home full of rich traditions, fun (and educational) discussions, and exciting new experiences that build character and compassion?
I lucked out big-time when I met Homa Tavangar, the author of Growing Up Global: Raising Children to Be At Home in the World.
This lady knows her stuff. She has three children of her own, and she has spent years putting together simple, doable ideas that any family–on any budget–can implement into their homes.
Seriously, I was so excited about this podcast that I could hardly sleep the night before, and our family has been benefiting from Homa’s wisdom ever since.
Want to listen in on our conversation? Want to help your children connect genuinely with people and appreciate the beauty of other cultures?
You’ll love the results, and you’ll be amazed at how your own family bonds are strengthened along the way.
Click here to listen to the podcast, “Raising Global Children.”
If you’d like to visit Homa’s fabulous website, it’s called Growing Up Global.
We’ve also put together a full Power of Moms Book Summary.
“Click here to access all Power of Moms podcasts in iTunes”
2 comments
Kristine Jones says:
Feb 22, 2012
Thank you so much Homa and April for this amazing podcast. I can feel my heart beating fast because I’m so excited about what you had to say. Funny enough I have done many of the activities mentioned in the podcast (even tracked origins of food on a map in the kitchen). For some time I have had an interest in maps and geography, without really thinking about why. I was giddy when I found a globe at a garage sale and put it in my children’s bathroom so they could look at it while they brush their teeth. We also have a world map shower curtain (from Target) which has prompted many long showers and questions from my older children when they emerge. We have cultural dinners and buy “wierd” things from the store. I’m crazy about Google Earth. I know the exact map I want to hang in my bedroom (when I save for it) and I have a Pinterest board for maps. I have done these things, however, in an effort to be “educational.” While there is nothing wrong in that, I realize after listening to this that I have been missing the human connection. It’s not just about teaching our children about geography and cultures–it’s about teaching our children about other human beings and our relationships with them. I guess I must have known this deep down but didn’t consciously think about it. We had some special experiences and intimate discussions this past summer while hosting 3 girls from Taiwan that gave us a taste of this. I’m excited to implement more of your ideas with a fresh perspective and understanding about why it is important. Homa, I am so, so glad you found this website! You have a gold mine of ideas! Thank you!!
Homa Sabet Tavangar says:
Feb 23, 2012
Thank you so much for sharing your comment and journey, Kristine. It means so much to me that this struck a chord with you. You ARE doing amazing things to bring the world home. I’d love to hear how this “human connection” makes a difference for your family!
@growingupglobal