Thanksgiving offers a unique opportunity for host parents to share a key part of American culture with international students while fostering meaningful cultural exchange. Here are some ideas for introducing the history, traditions, and spirit of Thanksgiving to international students in a way that encourages them to feel involved, appreciated, and excited about this special holiday.
- Start with the Basics: Share the History of Thanksgiving:
For many international students, Thanksgiving is unfamiliar. Begin by explaining the historical origins of Thanksgiving in America, touching on how it began as a harvest celebration and a time of thanks among early settlers and Indigenous peoples. Discussing the diversity of its roots can make the holiday feel more inclusive. Consider watching a documentary or sharing educational videos that tell the story of Thanksgiving in an engaging way, allowing students to appreciate its historical context.
- Focus on Gratitude:
Thanksgiving is ultimately about giving thanks and reflecting on gratitude. Encourage your student to join in by discussing what you’re thankful for as a family and inviting them to share as well. To make it fun and memorable, you might create a “gratitude tree” or “gratitude jar,” where each family member, including your student, can add a note of something they’re grateful for throughout the week leading up to Thanksgiving.
- Introduce Traditional Thanksgiving Foods
Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without food! Many international students may not be familiar with the typical Thanksgiving menu, so make it an interactive experience. Give them a brief overview of popular Thanksgiving dishes like turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie, explaining their significance. Better yet, invite your student to join you in preparing a dish or even creating a new one that blends your family’s favorites with some of their cultural flavors.
You can also encourage them to bring a dish from their home country to the table, showcasing their traditions and making them feel part of the celebration.
- Teach Cultural Etiquette Around the Thanksgiving Table
Many international students might be unfamiliar with the customs at American holiday gatherings. Guide them on typical Thanksgiving etiquette, such as taking turns serving food, expressing gratitude, and socializing with extended family. Explain common phrases like “Happy Thanksgiving” and discuss any family traditions you might have, such as saying a prayer or sharing personal reflections.
- Plan Activities Together
Thanksgiving offers a range of enjoyable family activities. Here are a few ideas:
– Watch a Thanksgiving Parade: Many cities host parades, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is televised nationwide. Watching it together can be a fun way to share the excitement.
– Football Game Viewing: Football games are a popular Thanksgiving tradition. If your student is interested, explaining the basics of American football and cheering for a team together can be a great bonding experience.
– Volunteer Together: Thanksgiving is a time for giving, so consider volunteering as a family, such as serving meals at a local shelter. This activity fosters empathy, kindness, and a strong sense of community.
- Make Space for Cultural Exchange
Encourage your international student to share how gratitude, family, and holidays are celebrated in their culture. Ask if there are any similar holidays they observe at home, and if they’d like to talk about it with the family. This cross-cultural exchange can enrich the Thanksgiving experience for everyone and make your student feel respected and valued.
- Explain Black Friday with Care
The day after Thanksgiving, known as Black Friday, is also widely recognized, but its focus on shopping can feel different from the gratitude-centered spirit of Thanksgiving. If your family participates in Black Friday, let your student know about this shopping day and decide together whether you’d like to participate.
Wrapping Up Thanksgiving Together
Thanksgiving is a beautiful time to share family traditions, give thanks, and enjoy each other’s company. By creating an inclusive, engaging environment, you’ll help your international student feel at home and provide them with an unforgettable experience. Thanksgiving might be new to them, but with your guidance, they’ll carry forward lasting memories of warmth, gratitude, and togetherness.