Mother Thinks Son’s Bullying of Classmate Over Her ‘Weird’ Lunch Is Normal, Gets Exposed

Cultural sensitivity is one of those things we learn through our interactions with people. It starts at an early age: in school. Unfortunately, some children choose to bully others because of their culture. In fact, studies have shown that 23% of all bullying is based on race.

This 7-year-old did something similar, albeit unintentionally. He called his classmate’s traditional food “weird.” And when the boy’s mother found out, she didn’t see what the fuss was about. It caused a stir online, with many people accusing her of racism and poor parenting.

Bored Panda enlisted the help of Associate Professor and Coordinator of the Social Foundations: Multicultural Education Program, Dr. Traci Baxley, who is also a cultural and racial identity coach for parents. She explained why it’s important to teach children cultural sensitivity and the best ways parents can do it. Read her thoughts below!

A 7-year-old girl was eating a traditional lunch when her classmate laughed at her, calling her “weird”

Photo source: monkeybusiness / enavtoelements (not an actual photo)

But the boy’s mother saw nothing wrong with his behavior, the girl was just too sensitive.

Photo source: Pressmaster / envatoelements (not an actual photo)

Image Source: throwawaymomlunch

Children as young as three or four years old can start to notice cultural differences, for example in food or customs.

Photo source: cottonbro studio / pexels (not an actual photo)

Children start to notice and comment on cultural differences at a certain age. A toddler probably wouldn’t do that, but a three- or four-year-old would. Dr. Traci Baxley says it’s completely normal, and kids usually start doing it around preschool.

“This is a time in their lives when they start interacting more with others outside of their immediate family and becoming more aware of their surroundings,” Bored Panda explained. “During this period of development, open, honest conversations that celebrate diversity and nurture their curiosity are key.”

For parents who worry they don’t know how to broach the subject, Dr. Baxley has a few possible scenarios. Parents might say something like, “It’s great to ask questions about what you’re seeing and learning. It shows you’re interested in understanding the world around you!”

It is also important to teach children to be open and sensitive. Parents can tell them: “Imagine someone from another country learning about our traditions for the first time. We would like them to be curious and respectful, right? Let’s do the same.”

That said, your child needs to feel safe asking questions. The goal is for them to explore and learn without fear, shame, or judgment. “Approach them with understanding and encouragement to support their ongoing growth,” says Dr. Baxley, suggesting a possible scenario: “It’s OK to be curious or unsure about new things. You can always ask questions here, and we’ll find the answers together.”

Parents should introduce children to foods from different cultures

Photo source: Tima Miroshnichenko / pexels (not an actual photo)

Some parents may have difficulty explaining the concept of cultural differences in a way that their children can understand. According to Dr. Baxley, food can be a fantastic way to start teaching young children about cultural differences.

“It’s something they can see, touch and taste, which makes it both relevant and meaningful, and because everyone eats, it’s a universal experience. Parents should celebrate their children’s curiosity about the world. When children notice different foods, customs or languages, it’s a great opportunity to teach them more about those cultures,” she explains.

“By talking about these differences in a fun and engaging way, encouraging questions and sharing stories, parents can help their children understand and appreciate the diversity around them. This not only teaches them new things — it helps them become more respectful and empathetic toward others,” says Dr. Baxley.

Here are some simple ways parents can do this:

• Choose a recipe to cook together or go to a restaurant from a different culture once a month. Discuss the origins of the dish and the traditional ways of preparing and eating it. Compare and contrast the dishes with those that are more familiar to your family.

• Read children’s books from around the world. This can broaden children’s understanding and appreciation of different lifestyles and perspectives.

• Watch kids movies like Coco (Mexico), Moana (Polynesia), Ratatouille (France), Bold (Scotland) and In love (Colombia) that highlight cultural stories. Discuss the culture, landscape, and values ​​that are portrayed.

• If possible, attend cultural festivals in your area. Direct contact with different cultures through food, music, dance, and crafts can be a rich learning experience. It’s also a great opportunity to meet people in your extended community.

People in the comments brought the woman’s attention to the issue of teaching her son respect for other cultures.

Some people, however, supported the woman, saying that the girl needs to grow thicker skin.

The article Mother Thinks It’s Normal for Her Son to Bully His Classmate Over Her ‘Weird’ Lunch is debunked for the first time on Bored Panda.