Resources
10 Ideas for Global Experiences
Travel with Kids
Country Research
Global/Multicultural Education
10 Ideas for Global Experiences
1. Culture Nights
Something fun to do as a family is a "culture night" highlighting a specific country or region. The event could consist of activities like cooking a meal, listening to music, watching a DVD, reading a book, playing a game, etc. Afterwards, you can follow up the experience with additional materials about that country or move on to another one. A great place to start is with something relevant to your family or daily lives. For instance, perhaps you are Italian-American or have a relative living in Mexico. Or, choose a country that you have traveled to or plan to travel to in the future.
2. Foreign Language Classes
In many states, students are required to study a second language to earn a high school diploma and enter college. However, even if it is not required, it is an excellent idea for every child today. The class can also be a springboard for building on this interest through any of the other ideas on this "top 10" list or products on this site. One easy idea – many movies today have multiple language options. Watch your child’s favorite movie with them in the language they are studying.
3. Concordia Language Villages
These camps in Minnesota offer a total immersion experience in a language and culture, including several hours a day of language instruction. In addition to offering opportunities for high school students, they now offer programs for families. I attended their Mandarin Chinese village, Sen Lin Hu, while in high school and highly recommend the experience.
Concordia - http://www.concordialanguagevillages.org/newsite/
4. Local Societies or Festivals
Many larger cities, or cities with many individuals of a common background, have a local society that hosts cultural and educational events. Additionally, many areas have festivals to celebrate different cultures (e.g., Irish, Italian). These often include food, music, dancing, crafts, and games, and can be a fun experience for the whole family.
5. Theme Birthday Party
Host a theme birthday party for a unique and memorable experience for your child. You can include invitations, favors, music, food, and games from a different country or culture. One of the only childhood birthdays I can remember was Asian-themed (including "pin the tail on the dragon"). While the event itself might not be purely educational, you can build on the experience with books or other materials -- it’s all about generating interest.
6. Celebrate your Heritage over the Holidays
Holidays are all about celebrating as a family and present a perfect opportunity to integrate traditional food, décor, and storytelling from your ancestry into the event.
7. International Penpals
I loved corresponding with penpals as a child. It’s a great way to get a sense for life in another country and even practice foreign language skills. It’s easier now with internet communication (although there is something really special about getting a letter with exotic stamps and knowing how far it traveled!)
ePals Global Community - http://www.epals.com/
International Pen Friends - http://usa.ipfpenfriends.com/
My Language Exchange - http://www.mylanguageexchange.com/penpals.asp
Kids' Media Club - http://www.kidsmc.com/penpal/
Kids' Space Connection - http://www.ks-connection.org/
8. Model UN
Model UN is a program that simulates the workings of UN, with students assuming roles as country delegates. The experience culminates at a live conference where students can practice their negotiation, debate, and diplomatic skills. Some schools already have a model UN program, but they can be easily started with a team of interested students and a teacher sponsor.
Model UN HQ - http://www.un.org/cyberschoolbus/modelun/prep.html
UN Association - http://www.unausa.org/modelun
9. Exchange Programs
Either becoming or hosting an international exchange student is a unique opportunity. As an exchange student, you can experience life in another country. As a host, you can learn about another culture through introducing someone to the US. In addition to exchanges during the school year, some organizations offer summer or volunteer programs.
AFS- http://www.afs.org/afs_or/home
AYUSA- http://www.ayusa.org/
ASSE- http://www.asse.com/
CCI- http://www.cci-exchange.com/#mainpg
CIEE- http://www.ciee.org/
People to People - http://www.ptpi.org/programs/StudentPrograms.aspx
10. Governor's Schools
Several states sponsor “Governor’s Schools” for highly motivated students. Many general programs contain global material, but there are also schools entirely focused on international experiences. I attended the Tennessee Governor’s School for International Studies and it was one of the most interesting months of my life.
New Jersey - http://www.nj.gov/govschool/International-Studies.htm
Tennessee - http://www.tennessee.gov/education/govschools/
Pennsylvania - http://www.ucis.pitt.edu/pgsis/
Travel with Kids
Travel for Kids - http://www.travelforkids.com/
Flying with Kids - http://www.flyingwithkids.com/
Travel with your Kids - http://www.travelwithyourkids.com/
TSA Air Travel Tips - http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/children/index.shtm
Good Little Traveler - http://www.goodlittletraveler.com/
Country Reports - http://www.countryreports.org/Index.aspx
BBC Country Reports - http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/country_profiles/
CIA World Factbook - https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/
Library of Congress Country Studies - http://lcweb2.loc.gov/frd/cs/
Global/Multicultural Education
Multicultural Education Guide - http://jan.ucc.nau.edu/~jar/Multi.html
EdChange Resources - http://www.edchange.org/multicultural/sites1.html
Edutopia Resources - http://www.edutopia.org/global-education-2008-resources
Kids and Cultures - http://www.kidsandcultures.org
