Have you ever seen an 8 yr old, 7 yr old and 2 yr old excited about using a drinking fountain? Have you ever seen someone jump up and down over a dusting of snow? Well, I have. My kids are so excited about the simplest things that they “have never” experienced before. Things like drinking fountains, snow, snow shoveling, hats and mittens, cheetos and graham crackers and so many other little things. It is fun to watch them get excited over the simple joys in life and as they discover new things like bleachers at high school football fields or learning how to play American football themselves. Having young kids on furlough is challenging but neat as they seem to adapt quickly. It is fun to watch them learn, but sometimes I feel bad that I haven’t taken the time to teach them more so they wouldn’t be so “behind” when they re-enter our home culture. At the same time, I can’t anticipate everything they would have forgotten.
So, how can you help an MK coming back from the field? How can you make them feel at home? By rediscovering things with them as they encounter these things for the first time. What is common to you is often very exciting to them! One thing that would help them feel welcomed in their home country is if you are excited with them as they learn or discover seemingly simple things. They just might help you find the joy in the things you have since forgotten. Things you might take for granted like drinking fountains or how much fun snow can be or playing in the leaves and even just eating a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
I can totally relate to this- especially the parts about seeing snow for the first time and about learning how to play American football. (I’m still not positive on all the rules of this sport. ;-))
This is very true for MKs coming back to their sending country. I am particularly grateful for family and friends that were understanding and stood up for me when I was behind on some American customs. I’m glad your kids are having a chance to have some of these American experiences as kids too. I pray for you all through all the changes that come.