A Journey Across Borders
As a mother, one of my most important responsibilities—and greatest joys—is helping my children discover who they are. For our family, that journey includes something unique and beautiful: a multicultural identity. I was born in Afghanistan, spent part of my childhood in Pakistan, and moved to the United States as a teenager. My life has been shaped by different languages, customs, and values, and now, I want my children to grow up feeling proud of their roots while also feeling at home in the world they live in today.
Raising children with a multicultural background is a delicate balance. On one hand, you want to preserve the traditions and stories that connect them to their heritage. On the other, you want to help them thrive in a world where they may sometimes feel “different.” Through my own experiences, I’ve come to believe that the key is resilience—helping children feel confident in who they are, even when they face challenges or questions about their identity.
The Power of Storytelling
One of the simplest, yet most powerful, ways I teach my children about their multicultural heritage is through storytelling. I share memories of my own childhood—the sound of the call to prayer in Afghanistan, the flavors of traditional meals in Pakistan, the journey of adapting to life in America. These stories aren’t just about the past—they help my children understand where they come from and what their family has overcome.
When children hear real stories, they connect emotionally. They begin to see themselves as part of something bigger—a family, a culture, a history. Storytelling also helps them develop empathy, gratitude, and a sense of belonging, even if they weren’t physically present for those experiences.
I’ve learned that it’s not about making them choose one culture over another. It’s about helping them see how all the pieces fit together to create something unique and strong—their own personal identity.
Celebrating Traditions, Big and Small
In our home, we make space for both traditional and modern ways of living. We celebrate holidays like Eid with traditional food, clothing, and prayers, but we also celebrate birthdays with homemade cakes and party hats. We speak English, but I also teach my children Pashto, even if it’s just a few words at a time.
Food is a wonderful bridge between cultures. Baking and cooking together gives me the chance to introduce flavors from my heritage while also encouraging creativity. My kids love helping in the kitchen, and through that simple act, they’re learning about culture, family, and the joy of sharing.
It doesn’t have to be elaborate—small rituals and everyday practices can be just as meaningful. Lighting a candle, saying a phrase in another language, listening to music from different parts of the world—all of these are ways to keep culture alive and present.
Building Resilience Through Identity
Children with multicultural backgrounds may face questions or misunderstandings from others. They might be asked why they look a certain way, speak a certain language, or have “different” customs. As a parent, I want to prepare them for these moments—not by making them fearful, but by helping them feel proud and confident.
Resilience comes from knowing who you are and why you matter. I tell my children that our differences are not weaknesses—they’re strengths. Being multicultural means they can see the world through more than one lens. It means they can connect with people from different backgrounds, adapt to new situations, and approach life with curiosity and compassion.
I also encourage them to ask questions and express how they feel. If they ever feel confused, left out, or unsure, I want them to know they can talk to me. Open conversations are key to helping children process their experiences and grow stronger through them.
Finding Balance in a Fast-Paced World
Modern life moves quickly, and it’s easy to let cultural traditions slip into the background. But I’ve found that when we slow down—when we take time to bake together, go for walks, or simply talk—we create the space needed for these deeper connections.
Self-employment has given me more flexibility to be present with my children. I value that time immensely because it allows me to nurture not only their education and physical health but also their emotional and cultural development. Raising resilient children isn’t just about protecting them—it’s about preparing them to face the world with confidence and kindness.
Final Thoughts
Raising children with a multicultural identity is both a gift and a responsibility. It means guiding them through the richness of their heritage while giving them the tools to navigate a world that may not always understand it. It means honoring the past, embracing the present, and preparing them for a future where they can be both strong and compassionate.
I want my children to know that their identity is not something to hide or “fit in” with. It’s something to celebrate. Every story they hear, every dish we cook, every holiday we share—these are threads that weave together a tapestry of resilience, beauty, and pride.
In the end, our goal as parents isn’t to control who our children become. It’s to support them as they discover their own path—and to help them walk that path with courage, joy, and a strong sense of self.