Hi again, parents!
So to continue with Parenting around the world! our informative read about parenting practices across the globe, we have compiled 5 more unique ones for you today.
Get, set, go!
6. East Cape of Africa
In the Eastern Cape of Africa, the Sifudu custom is practiced on the third day of life of a baby. Sifudu means “passing the child through smoke”. The baby is held upside down toward the smoke. Apparently, the ritual is such a shock to the babies that they don’t even cry! This ritual is to ensure that that baby is never afflicted by fright, timid ways, or shyness. Such self-grooming classes!
7. Japan
Moms typically take their babies everywhere, by sling or Baby Bjorn-like carrier, wearing them around the house, out to the shops, even cycling across town. This physical closeness is in many ways how affection is expressed; there is no kissing or hugging. In most households, the family sleeps together, with mom on one side of the futon, dad on the other and child in the middle, an arrangement resembling the Japanese character for river ( 川 ) that can continue well past preschool. And you’ll see lots of moms take their small children with them for a soak in the public baths. The Japanese call it “skinship”—everyone’s naked in the onsen (hot springs).
8. Nigeria
In Nigeria, the Igbo tribe take newborns to the family’s ancestral house. A well-spoken relative, chosen by the parents, chews alligator pepper, spits it on a finger, and puts it in the baby’s mouth. This is so the baby grows up just as well spoken and articulate as the relative blessing the baby. I am puking in my mouth. Like, seriously?
9. Ireland
Traditionally, Irish couples save the top tier of their wedding cake for their first child’s christening. The cake is served to guests and then a few crumbs are sprinkled over the baby’s forehead to bless it with good luck. Generally, there is a good amount of whiskey in the cake already, but couples often save some of their wedding champagne as well to use it to wet the baby’s head for good luck. Ever heard of alcoholic luck?
10. Greece
In Greece, it is a custom to spit at a baby three times to ward off evil spirits, bad luck, and more specifically the evil eye. Positive vibes, only!
While whatever may be the ritualistic, traditional or customary idea present behind in any of the parenting practices that are followed across the globe, the essence remains common-Parents want the best for their children. This, we believe, transcends the cultural differences and unites us as humans, loving our children with all our might.
Stay tuned to BabySquad for more such interesting reads!