It’s super important to teach our kids how much Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) sacrifice for their families and for our country. Let’s talk about ways to help them understand and appreciate everything OFWs do, so they grow up to respect and value their contributions.
Understanding the OFW Journey: More Than Just Money
First off, it’s important to make sure kids know what an OFW is. Explain in simple words that an OFW is someone who leaves their home and family to work in another country. They do this so they can earn money to support their loved ones back home. It’s not just about the money though! It’s about missing birthdays, holidays, and everyday moments. It means being away from their kids, spouses, parents, and friends. This separation can be really tough on everyone involved.
Think about it: imagine missing your child’s first steps, or not being there to read them a bedtime story. These are things that OFWs often have to sacrifice. The Philippine Statistics Authority reported that as of 2021, there were an estimated 1.77 million OFWs. That’s a lot of families making huge sacrifices! Helping children understand the emotional toll this takes is the first step toward fostering gratitude.
Start the Conversation: Talking About Sacrifices in an Age-Appropriate Way
How you talk about OFW sacrifices will depend on your child’s age. For younger kids, you can use simple examples. “Auntie is working far away so she can buy you your favorite toys and make sure you have food to eat.” Focus on the concrete benefits they receive. For older kids, you can talk about the more complex reasons why people become OFWs, like limited job opportunities in the Philippines or the desire to give their children a better education. You can even show them news articles or documentaries about OFWs. Just make sure the content is age-appropriate and not too overwhelming.
Don’t be afraid to be honest about the difficulties. Acknowledge that it’s sad when a parent is away, but emphasize that their sacrifice is an act of love. “Yes, Daddy misses you, and it’s hard for him to be away. But he’s doing this because he loves you very much and wants you to have a good life.”
Making it Personal: Connecting with OFWs Directly or Through Stories
The best way for children to understand the reality of OFW life is to connect with OFWs directly, if possible. If you have relatives or friends who are OFWs, encourage your kids to talk to them. Video calls are a great way to do this! Help your children prepare questions beforehand, such as “What’s your favorite thing about your job?” or “What do you miss most about the Philippines?”
If you don’t personally know any OFWs, don’t worry! There are plenty of stories about OFWs available online and in books. Look for stories that are written from a child’s perspective. This will help your child relate to the experience on a personal level. You can also find documentaries or news reports that feature OFWs talking about their lives and challenges. Websites like the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) often feature stories and resources. Discuss these stories together and ask your child how they make them feel.
Acts of Gratitude: Showing Appreciation in Meaningful Ways
Talking about sacrifices is important, but it’s even more important to teach children how to show their appreciation. This doesn’t just mean saying “thank you.” It means actively demonstrating gratitude through their actions. Here are some ideas:
Write letters or draw pictures: Encourage your children to write letters or draw pictures for the OFW in their lives. This is a simple but powerful way to show that they are thinking of them. They can share what’s been happening in their lives, talk about their favorite memories together, or simply say “I love you and I miss you.”
Make video messages: Video messages are even more personal than letters. Record a short video of your child singing a song, reciting a poem, or just saying hello. These videos can be a huge source of comfort and encouragement for OFWs who are feeling homesick.
Help around the house: If the OFW is supporting the family financially, encourage your children to contribute in other ways. They can help with chores around the house, like doing the dishes or taking out the trash. This will not only lighten the load for the caregiver but also teach them responsibility and empathy.
Do well in school: OFWs often work hard to provide their children with a good education. One of the best ways children can show their appreciation is by working hard in school and getting good grades. Let them know that their success is also a reward for their parent’s hard work.
Celebrate their homecoming: When the OFW returns home, make it a special occasion. Decorate the house, prepare their favorite meal, and spend quality time together as a family. This will show them how much they were missed and appreciated.
Respecting Remittances: Understanding the Value of Money Sent Home
Children often see the money that OFWs send home as just…money. They might not understand where it comes from or how hard it was earned. It’s important to teach them about remittances – and that every peso sent home represents hard work, sacrifice, and love.
Explain to your children that the money their OFW relative sends home is used to pay for important things like food, clothing, education, and healthcare. Help them understand that these things are not just given, but are earned through hard work and sacrifice. You can even involve them in small ways in managing the money, such as letting them help choose which groceries to buy or saving up for a special treat. According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), personal remittances from OFWs consistently contribute a significant portion to the Philippine economy. Helping children understand the economic impact of remittances can foster national pride and appreciation.
It’s also important to teach children about saving money and spending it wisely. Encourage them to be mindful of their spending habits and to appreciate the value of every peso. This will not only help them become financially responsible but also help them appreciate the sacrifices their OFW relative is making.
Combatting the Negative Stereotypes: Promoting Respect and Understanding
Unfortunately, there are often negative stereotypes associated with OFWs. Some people may look down on them or assume they are uneducated or unskilled. It’s important to actively combat these stereotypes and promote respect and understanding. Explain to your children that OFWs come from all walks of life and have a variety of skills and experiences. They are often highly educated and skilled professionals who are working hard to provide a better future for their families.
Challenge any negative stereotypes you hear and encourage your children to do the same. Emphasize the importance of treating everyone with respect, regardless of their job or social status. Show respect and recognition to OFWs who you meet and hear from in their community. Highlighting the positive contributions of OFWs to society, such as increased household income, children’s education, and improved healthcare access, is important.
Leading by Example: Modeling Gratitude and Appreciation
Children learn by example. If you want your children to appreciate OFW sacrifices, you need to model gratitude and appreciation in your own life. This means showing respect and appreciation not only to OFWs but also to everyone who works hard to provide for their families. Thank the cashier at the grocery store, the garbage collector, and the bus driver. Show your children that you value the work of others and that you appreciate their contributions.
It also means being grateful for the things you have. Avoid complaining about material possessions or comparing yourself to others. Instead, focus on appreciating the simple things in life, like a warm meal, a comfortable bed, and a loving family.
Keeping the Conversation Going: Make it a Regular Part of Family Life
Talking about OFW sacrifices shouldn’t be a one-time event. It should be an ongoing conversation that is integrated into your family life. Regularly check in with your children and ask them how they are feeling about the OFW in their lives. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings, and provide them with support and guidance. Make it a habit to celebrate special occasions together, even if the OFW can’t be there in person. Use technology to stay connected and create lasting memories.
Remind them regularly of the sacrifices being made and the positive impact those sacrifices have on their lives. The important thing is to keep the conversation going and to ensure that your children understand and appreciate the contributions of OFWs.
Specific Activities to Foster Understanding
Here are some tangible activities that can make the concept of OFW sacrifice more concrete for children:
“Day in the Life” Project: Have your child imagine and illustrate a day in the life of their OFW relative. This can involve researching the country where they work, the type of job they do, and the challenges they might face.
Budgeting Exercise: Create a simple budget showing how the money sent home by the OFW is used. Let your child participate in making decisions about how the money is allocated. This can illustrate the value of each peso.
Cultural Exchange: If the OFW is working in a different country, learn about that country’s culture, food, and traditions together. This broadens their perspective and helps them understand the experiences of the OFW.
Map Activity: Show your child a map of the world and point out the Philippines and the country where the OFW is working. Discuss the distance and the challenges of traveling so far.
Gratitude Journal: Encourage your child to keep a gratitude journal, writing down things they are thankful for each day that the OFW makes possible.
Role-Playing: Act out scenarios where your child expresses gratitude directly to the OFW via a video call. Practice different ways to say thank you and show appreciation.
Focusing on Strengths and Resilience
While it’s important to acknowledge the challenges faced by OFWs, it’s equally important to focus on their strengths and resilience. Highlight their determination, their hard work, and their unwavering love for their families. Talk about the skills they have learned and the experiences they have gained while working abroad. These traits will help build children’s respect and admiration of OFWs.
Share stories of OFWs who have overcome adversity and achieved success. Celebrate their accomplishments and recognize their contributions to society. Emphasize that being an OFW is not just a job, but a testament to their strength, courage, and selflessness. Doing so can teach children important lessons about perseverance and the ability to overcome obstacles.
By focusing on the strengths and resilience of OFWs, we teach our children to see them as heroes and role models, rather than as victims of circumstance.
Addressing Feelings of Abandonment
Sometimes, children of OFWs can experience feelings of abandonment or resentment towards the parent who is working abroad. This is a normal and valid emotion, but it’s important to address it in a healthy way. Create a safe space for your children to express their feelings without judgment.
Listen to their concerns and validate their emotions. Acknowledge that it’s okay to feel sad, angry, or confused. Explain to them that their parent’s absence is not a reflection of their love for them, but rather a sacrifice they are making for their future. Reassure them that their parent loves them very much and misses them dearly. Finding ways to stay connected through regular communication is very important.
If your child is struggling to cope with these feelings, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor. They can provide your child with the support and guidance they need to navigate this challenging situation. Ultimately, creating a supportive and understanding environment is key to helping children of OFWs process their emotions and build healthy relationships with their parents.
Practical Gift-Giving Guides
When the time comes to give gifts, consider items that will truly resonate with an OFW, keeping their experiences and sacrifices in mind. Practical and heartfelt gestures can go a long way in demonstrating gratitude. Here are some gift ideas to consider:
Family Photo Album: A collection of family photos showcasing moments they’ve missed can be a deeply touching gift.
Personalized Video Message: Compile video messages from family members and friends expressing love and appreciation.
Comfort Items: Things that remind them of home, such as Filipino snacks, familiar fragrances, or traditional handicrafts.
Technology to Connect: A high-quality webcam or noise-canceling headphones for smoother video calls with family.
Practical Necessities: Consider the climate of their work location and provide appropriate clothing or gear.
Gift cards or items supporting their hobbies: This shows that you understand and support their personal interests.
Celebrating OFW Day
Did you know the Philippines celebrates National Migrant Workers’ Day (sometimes referred to as OFW Day) every June 7th? This is a perfect opportunity to educate your children about the importance of OFWs and their contributions to the country. You can participate in local events, organize a family celebration, or simply spend time learning more about the OFW experience.
This day serves as a great reminder to always show appreciation and support to the OFWs in your life and community. Use it as a platform to initiate meaningful conversations with your children on their sacrifices, difficulties, and contributions. Consider creating a special family meal to celebrate this day, which allows children to connect with how they are benefitting from having OFWs in the family.
FAQ Section
Why is it important to teach children about OFW sacrifices?
It’s important to teach children about OFW sacrifices so they can develop empathy, respect, appreciation, and a strong sense of family values. Understanding the challenges and sacrifices OFWs make helps children grow into responsible and grateful individuals who value the contributions of others.
How can I explain the concept of remittances to young children?
Explain remittances in simple terms as money sent home by OFWs to support their families. Use concrete examples, such as how the money is used to buy food, clothing, pay for education, or healthcare. You can also involve children in small ways in managing the money, such as helping to choose which groceries to buy.
What if my child feels resentment towards their OFW parent?
Acknowledge and validate your child’s feelings. Create a safe space for them to express their emotions without judgment. Reassure them that their parent’s absence is not a reflection of their love and emphasizes the sacrifices made for their future. If the resentment persists, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor.
Are there any age-appropriate resources about OFWs that I can use?
Yes, you can find stories, articles, documentaries, and videos about OFWs that are suitable for different age groups. Websites like the OWWA often feature stories and resources. Look for materials that are written from a child’s perspective or that focus on the positive contributions of OFWs.
How can I encourage my child to stay connected with their OFW relative despite the distance?
Encourage regular communication through video calls, letters, emails, or social media. Help your child prepare questions or topics to discuss during these interactions. Plan virtual activities together, such as watching a movie or playing a game online. Make the effort to create a sense of closeness and connection despite the physical distance.
Call to Action
Let’s commit to raising a generation of Filipinos who deeply understand and appreciate the sacrifices of our OFWs. By taking these steps, you’re not just teaching your children about gratitude, you are shaping their values, nurturing their empathy, and fostering an appreciation for the invaluable contribution of OFWs to our nation. Start today. Start small. But start now. Together, let’s ensure that every OFW feels seen, valued, and loved.
References
Philippine Statistics Authority. (2021). 2021 Survey on Overseas Filipinos.
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. (n.d.). Latest Data on Personal Remittances.
