Many Filipino parents work overseas (OFWs) to provide a better future for their families. This means their children often grow up in a new culture, influenced by foreign customs and ways of life. How do we make sure these kids stay connected to their Filipino roots and values, even when they’re living far away? This article is all about simple ways to help your children understand and embrace what it means to be Filipino, no matter where they are in the world.
Why Filipino Values Matter for Global Kids
Filipino values are like a compass, guiding us to make good choices and build strong relationships. These values, like Pakikipagkapwa-tao (sense of togetherness), Utang na Loob (debt of gratitude), and Family Orientation, are the heart of Filipino culture. Kids who understand these values learn how to be respectful, helpful, and caring – qualities that will help them succeed in life, no matter where they are.
Imagine a young Filipino-American visiting the Philippines for the first time. If they’ve been taught about Utang na Loob, they’ll naturally show appreciation to relatives who welcome them. They will understand that acts of kindness deserve recognition and gratitude. Similarly, knowing about Pakikipagkapwa-tao will help them connect with other Filipinos, even if they don’t speak the language perfectly. These values provide a framework for understanding Filipino culture and building meaningful connections.
Understanding Key Filipino Values
Let’s break down some of the most important Filipino values and how you can teach them to your children:
Pakikipagkapwa-tao: Sense of Togetherness
Pakikipagkapwa-tao means treating others as you would treat yourself. It’s about empathy, kindness, and understanding. This includes extending hospitality to strangers and celebrating successes together. How can you teach this? Involve your kids in community activities, like charity drives or volunteering at a local community center. Even simply encouraging them to share toys or help a classmate is a great start. Tell them stories about times when Filipinos came together to overcome challenges. For example, you could talk about how Filipinos helped each other after the devastating typhoons, showcasing the power of collective support. Explain that this sense of community is a part of who they are.
Utang na Loob: Debt of Gratitude
Utang na Loob is about acknowledging and repaying kindness. It doesn’t mean you owe someone forever, but it encourages you to show appreciation for the help you receive. Teach your kids to say “thank you” sincerely. Explain that when someone does something nice for them, they should try to return the favor in some way, even if it’s just with a kind word or a small gesture. Share stories from your own life where you were grateful for someone’s help and how you showed your appreciation. Frame it less as a debt and more as a way to build and strengthen a relationship.
Family Orientation: Importance of Family
Family is everything in Filipino culture. It’s not just about your immediate family, but also your extended family – your aunts, uncles, cousins, and even close family friends. Teach your children about their relatives, even those they don’t see often. Share photos, tell stories, and try to arrange video calls so they can get to know them. Emphasize the importance of supporting each other and being there for each other in times of need. In many Filipino families, it’s common for older siblings to help care for younger ones. You can instill this notion by asking your kids to assist in household tasks and look after their younger siblings when age appropriate.
Respect for Elders (Po and Opo):
Showing respect, especially to elders, is a cornerstone of Filipino culture. Using “Po” and “Opo” is the most basic way to show respect, but it goes beyond just words. It also involves listening to elders, valuing their opinions, and helping them when needed. If your kids are growing up in a place where this traditional respect isn’t common, make sure to explain why it’s important in Filipino culture. Model this behavior yourself by always being respectful to your own parents and other older adults. Help them understand that using “Po” and “Opo” is not just about being polite, but also about honoring the wisdom and experience of the older generation. Practice with them during role-playing scenarios.
Hiya: Sense of Propriety
Hiya is often described as “shame” or “embarrassment,” but it’s more nuanced than that. It’s about being aware of how your actions affect others and avoiding behaviors that could bring shame to your family or community. While hiya can sometimes be negative if it prevents someone from speaking up or standing up for themselves, it can also encourage good behavior and a sense of social responsibility. Teach your children to be mindful of how their words and actions might affect others. Encourage them to think before they speak or act, and to consider the impact of their choices. Explain that it’s important to be aware of social norms and expectations, but also to stand up for what’s right.
Practical Tips for Instilling Filipino Values
Okay, so you know the values, but how do you actually teach them to your kids? Here are some practical tips that you can use in your everyday life:
Speak the Language
Language is a powerful tool for connecting with your culture. Teach your children to speak Filipino, even if it’s just a few basic words and phrases. LearnTagalog.com is a great resource to look into if you have trouble teaching it yourself. Hearing the language spoken at home will also expose them to other customs. It will help them communicate with relatives and understand Filipino traditions. If you don’t speak Filipino fluently, consider taking a class together. Make it fun by watching Filipino movies or listening to Filipino music.
Cook Filipino Food Together
Food is another great way to connect with your culture. Cook Filipino dishes with your children and teach them about the ingredients and traditions behind them. Adobo, sinigang, and lumpia are all great dishes to start with. Talk about the significance of food in Filipino celebrations, like Noche Buena during Christmas or fiestas for the patron saint. Cooking Filipino food together can be a fun and delicious way to learn about your heritage.
Celebrate Filipino Holidays and Traditions
Make an effort to celebrate Filipino holidays and traditions, even if you’re living far away. Decorate your home for Christmas, celebrate Buwan ng Wika (National Language Month), and participate in Filipino community events. Explain the significance of these holidays and traditions to your children. For example, during Christmas, talk about the Simbang Gabi (dawn masses) and the meaning behind the traditional Filipino Christmas decorations like the parol (star lantern). Immersing your children in these celebrations will help them feel connected to their Filipino roots.
Share Stories about the Philippines
Tell your children stories about your own experiences growing up in the Philippines. Share memories of your childhood, your family, and your favorite places. Talk about the history and culture of the Philippines, and explain the challenges and triumphs of the Filipino people. These stories will help your children understand their heritage and feel proud of their Filipino identity. Show them pictures and videos of the Philippines to bring your stories to life. Find age-appropriate books and movies about the Philippines to share with them.
Connect with Filipino Communities
Look for Filipino communities in your area and get involved. Attend Filipino cultural events, join Filipino organizations, and connect with other Filipino families. This will provide your children with a sense of belonging and help them build relationships with other Filipinos. It will also give them opportunities to learn about Filipino culture and practice their Filipino language skills. If there isn’t a formal Filipino community in your area, consider starting one yourself. Even a small group of families can provide valuable support and connection.
Visit the Philippines
If possible, take your children to the Philippines to visit family, explore the country, and experience Filipino culture firsthand. This will be an unforgettable experience that will help them connect with their heritage in a meaningful way. Let them meet their relatives, taste the local cuisine, and see the beautiful sights of the Philippines. Encourage them to ask questions and learn about the history and culture of the country. Even a short trip to the Philippines can have a lasting impact on your children’s understanding of their Filipino identity.
Addressing Challenges
It’s not always easy to pass on Filipino values when you’re living in a different culture. Here are some common challenges and how to address them:
Language Barriers
If your children are growing up in a country where English or another language is the primary language, they may struggle to learn Filipino. Be patient and persistent. Use the tips mentioned above, such as speaking Filipino at home, watching Filipino movies, and listening to Filipino music. Find a Filipino language tutor or enroll them in a Filipino language class. Remember, even learning a few basic words and phrases can make a big difference.
Cultural Differences
Your children may encounter cultural differences between Filipino culture and the culture they’re growing up in. This can sometimes lead to confusion or conflict. Explain to them that different cultures have different values and customs, and that it’s important to respect those differences. Help them understand the reasons behind Filipino values and why they’re important. Encourage them to be proud of their Filipino heritage, but also to be open-minded and accepting of other cultures.
Dealing with Stereotypes
Unfortunately, Filipinos sometimes face stereotypes in other countries. Talk to your children about these stereotypes and help them understand that they are not true. Teach them to be proud of their Filipino identity and to stand up for themselves and other Filipinos if they experience discrimination. Help them develop a strong sense of self-worth and confidence so that they won’t be affected by negative stereotypes. Emphasize the positive contributions of Filipinos around the world.
Maintaining Connection to Relatives in the Philippines
Distance can make it difficult to maintain connections with relatives in the Philippines. Use technology to stay in touch. Schedule regular video calls with family members, send photos and videos, and exchange messages. Encourage your children to write letters or emails to their relatives. If possible, send balikbayan boxes (care packages) to show your love and support. Remind your children that even though they may be far away, their family in the Philippines is still an important part of their lives.
Real-Life Examples
Let’s look at some real-life examples of how parents have successfully instilled Filipino values in their global kids:
- The Santos Family: The Santos family lives in Canada. They make it a point to speak Tagalog at home and celebrate Filipino holidays with their local Filipino community. They cook Filipino food together every week, and the kids know how to make adobo and sinigang. Every summer, they visit the Philippines to spend time with their relatives.
- The Reyes Family: The Reyes family lives in Germany. They taught their children about the concept of Utang na Loob by having them write thank-you notes to relatives who sent them gifts for their birthdays or Christmas. They also involved their children in volunteering at a local charity organization, teaching them the importance of giving back to the community.
- The Garcia Family: Mrs. Garcia, a single mother working in Dubai, makes sure to have regular video calls with her daughter who is being cared for by her parents in the Philippines. During these calls, they speak in Tagalog, sing Filipino songs, and share stories about their day. Mrs. Garcia sends her daughter Filipino children’s books and encourages her to learn about Filipino culture.
Available Resources
There are many helpful resources available to help you instill Filipino values in your children. Consider these options:
- Filipino Community Centers: Find Filipino community centers in your area and get involved in their activities. These centers often offer language classes, cultural events, and other programs for children and families.
- Filipino Organizations: Join Filipino organizations, such as the Filipino-American National Historical Society (FANHS), which can provide you with resources and support.
- Filipino Websites and Blogs: Explore websites and blogs that focus on Filipino culture and values. Some popular websites include Positively Filipino. You can find articles, recipes, and other resources to help you teach your children about their heritage.
- Books and Movies: Share age-appropriate books and movies about the Philippines with your children. Look for stories that feature Filipino characters, traditions, and values.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about instilling Filipino values in global kids:
How do I teach my child Filipino values if I don’t speak the language fluently?
Even if you don’t speak Filipino fluently, you can still teach your child about Filipino values. Focus on sharing stories, cooking Filipino food, celebrating Filipino holidays, and connecting with Filipino communities. Use resources like Filipino websites, books, and movies to supplement your efforts. Language learning apps and online courses can also be helpful. Remember that even small steps can make a big difference.
My child is growing up in a culture that is very different from Filipino culture. How do I help them balance their Filipino identity with their new environment?
It’s important to acknowledge and validate your child’s experiences in their new environment. Help them understand that it’s possible to embrace both their Filipino identity and their new culture. Encourage them to be proud of their Filipino heritage, but also to be open-minded and accepting of other cultures. Teach them to navigate different social situations and to communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds.
How do I deal with negative stereotypes about Filipinos?
Talk to your children about negative stereotypes and help them understand that they are not true. Teach them to be proud of their Filipino identity and to stand up for themselves and other Filipinos if they experience discrimination. Emphasize the positive contributions of Filipinos around the world. Help them develop a strong sense of self-worth and confidence so that they won’t be affected by negative stereotypes. Report any instances of discrimination to the appropriate authorities.
My child is resistant to learning about Filipino culture. What should I do?
It’s important to be patient and understanding. Start by finding out why your child is resistant. Maybe they feel overwhelmed, embarrassed, or disconnected from their Filipino heritage. Try to make learning about Filipino culture fun and engaging. Involve them in activities they enjoy, such as cooking, music, or dance. Find books, movies, and websites that appeal to their interests. Talk to them about the positive aspects of Filipino culture and the benefits of being bilingual and bicultural. If necessary, seek help from a therapist or counselor who specializes in cross-cultural issues.
References
Albano, B. (2018). Filipino Values: A Primer. Quezon City, Philippines: Blue Books.
de Guzman, P. (2012). The Filipino Family: A Cross-Cultural Perspective. Manila, Philippines: Rex Bookstore.
Licuanan, P. B. (1994). A Moral Recovery Program: Building a People, Building a Nation. Manila, Philippines: Presidential Commission on Education.
You’ve got this! Instilling Filipino values in your global kids may seem challenging, but it’s incredibly rewarding. By weaving these traditions into their daily lives, you’re not just teaching them about their heritage, you are helping them become well-rounded, compassionate individuals ready to make a positive impact on the world. Think of it not as an obligation, but as an opportunity to create a beautiful, lasting legacy! So, start small, be consistent, and celebrate every little step along the way. What’s one thing you can do this week to bring a little more Filipino culture into your home? Start there and see where it takes you! Now, share your biggest challenge with teaching Filipino values to your kids in the comments below and let’s learn from each other!
