Cross-Cultural Kids: Celebrating Our Journeys
One of my favourite questions to ask students is "Where are all the places you have lived?"
The answers are always fascinating. Some students share stories of international travels and multiple passports; others describe moving between neighbourhoods or schools within Scotland and the UK. Regardless of the distance, every school and home move shapes who we are. As a dual citizen myself, I love answering this question—it reminds us that we truly don’t know someone’s story until we ask.
Author Ruth van Reken, renowned for her research on Cross-Cultural Kids (CCKs), notes that this phenomenon is more common today than ever. The term covers many experiences—including those who have moved internationally or within their own home country, or who go to international schools with friends and teachers from many places.
These experiences often grant students "superpowers". Many speak multiple languages, are keen observers, and excel at a "three-dimensional" worldview—the ability to see life from multiple perspectives. Events like the International Festival at ISA help foster a sense of belonging by celebrating these shared experiences.
Have a lovely weekend!
Warm regards,
Valerie DeGraw
School Counsellor
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