The world has become a much smaller place since the pandemic. In our increasingly digitally connected world, raising children with a global mindset has never been more important. From understanding different cultures to embracing diversity, raising the next generation of global citizens starts in the early years. Here’s how you can help your little one to grow up with empathy, curiosity, and confidence.

Why the early years are a crucial time

Little ones are naturally curious, absorbing the world around them like sponges. The first five years of a child’s life are a period of rapid cognitive and emotional development. This is the ideal time to introduce them to different cultures, languages, and traditions – giving them a global outlook before any preconceptions take hold.

Odyssey London The Global Preschool is an award-winning international early learning concept designed to inspire young global citizens. Angela Ang, Head of School at Odyssey Marylebone says: “We know that a child’s formative early years are fundamental to their future health, wellbeing and development, laying the foundations that shape the rest of their life. 

“Odyssey is a unique, innovative and premium early years’ experience for children, offering bespoke and limitless learning opportunities, guided by exceptional teachers, state-of-the-art facilities, and a cutting-edge, research-based and outcome-focused curriculum.

“We empower children through premium experiences and personalised programmes that help to develop a love of learning, confidence, independence, and physical and emotional wellbeing. Children become directors of their own learning in an emergent environment that empowers them to be competent, global learners of the 21st century.”

Global awareness begins at home

Travelling with little ones is amazing for global awareness. Learning about different cultures can start at home – with books and TV shows featuring characters from different backgrounds, music from different cultures, and foods from around the world. All these things are brilliant for sparking conversations about diversity with your little one.

Discovering the world through play

Making sure your little one’s toys are diverse will foster a sense of appreciation for the way other people live from an early age. Storytelling is a powerful way to learn about the world, so give your child the space to tell stories, dress up, role play, get creative and have fun! 

Choosing an educational environment with a global outlook

Educational environment in the early years plays a crucial role in shaping your little one’s worldview. Choosing a nursery or preschool that celebrates diversity, incorporates international perspectives into their curriculum, and encourages open mindedness can shape a global mindset from the get-go.

At Odyssey London, children are encouraged to be curious about the world. Angela Ang says: “Learning at Odyssey knows no boundaries. Whether in the classroom, at home, or out in the world, every moment is an opportunity to learn. Our approach ensures that education happens anywhere and anytime, making the world a limitless classroom and helping children to develop a sense of wonder about the world around them.”

The importance of fostering empathy

Cultivating compassion and awareness lays the foundation for valuing perspectives different from our own. For little ones, this starts early by encouraging them to share, take turns, and think about other’s feelings. Encourage imaginative play, read books that help you spark discussions about different emotions and how others might be feeling, and model emphatic behaviour. You can also talk about looking after the planet, and why we do things like recycle waste. 

Exploring different languages

Even if you don’t speak a mix of different languages at home, you can still lay the groundwork for an appreciation of linguistics. Learn greetings in different languages together, as well as greetings in sign language. You can also read bilingual books together or listen to bilingual children’s music. 

With seven award-winning campuses in Asia, and now one in London, Odyssey welcomes families from around the world. 

Angela Ang says: “One of our core values at Odyssey is ‘Embracing Diversity’. We nurture a learning community that is built on understanding and respecting individuality and intercultural differences. Our specialist team bring over 20 years of dedicated service within Odyssey and they are committed to nurturing each child’s growth and ensuring they are celebrated and respected as individuals. For our parents and families, being a part of Odyssey means joining an inclusive school community where they embark on this enriching learning journey alongside their children.”

Travel and real-world experiences

Travelling with little ones can be hard, especially if you’re exploring far-flung destinations. However, travel has many benefits for children’s development including linguistic, literacy, and social skills. The opportunity to explore the world can foster a sense of global belonging from an early age. If you’re not able to travel with your little one, you can still ignite a passion for exploring the world by visiting local museums, food markets, and cultural events.

Final thoughts

Raising a global citizen is all about shaping the way little ones see the world. By equipping them to be open-minded, empathetic individuals, we help them to find their place in an interconnected world.

This is Paid Partnership with Odyssey London

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