As a new or potential Phuket expat with kids, introducing your children to a foreign culture can be a daunting experience. However, while it might be a bit of a shock to them at first, kids are often able to adapt quicker than adults. Exposing your kids to different cultures can be a rewarding experience that broadens their horizons and fosters a sense of global awareness. 

Learn Basic Thai Language

Image by jcomp on Freepik

Learning Thai is not only fun but is an interactive way for kids to engage with the culture. It’s a great way to engage a kid’s mind and being a polyglot can provide many benefits in their life. While there are many online resources, apps, and videos, learning in a practical way by interacting with locals and making friends is arguably the best way. 

Although international schools base their curriculum in English, many offer Thai classes as well. If not, there are many effective Thai language teachers on the island who offer lessons or tutoring. Kids will quickly become much more comfortable in this new culture once they are able to communicate. 

Explore Thai Cuisine

Image by topntp26 on Freepik

If your children have yet to be exposed much to Asian food and Thai food specifically, there’s likely to be an adjustment period. However, there are few things as important in Thai culture as the culinary heritage. Get them started on some fried rice and mild dishes like phad thai or phad see ew and they’ll be enjoying spicy curries and papaya salad in no time. Depending on your kids’ age, taking them to a Thai cooking school is a fun and educational way to learn about Thai food and its ingredients. 

Celebrate Thai Festivals

Close up hand holding flower at Songkran Festival of Thailand | Image by jcomp on Freepik

Thai festivals are colorful and full of life, offering a fantastic opportunity for kids to get exposed to the local culture. And fortunately, there is almost always some fair, festival, or holiday happening. 

Without a doubt, Songkran, the Thai New Year in April, is the favorite of all children. Almost the entire country takes part in a good-natured water fight as well as traditional community events. Loy Krathong, the Festival of Lights, involves floating decorated baskets on water to pay respects to the river goddess. Kids can get involved in Loy Krathong by learning how to create the “krathong” baskets from banana tree trunks and leaves. 

Visit Thai Cultural Centers and Festivals

If possible, take your kids to Thai cultural centers or festivals in your area. You’ll discover that these events often feature live performances like music and dancing, traditional foods, and hands-on activities that offer a deeper understanding of Thai culture. Participating in such events provides a more immersive experience and allows kids to interact with people who share the culture firsthand. 

Kids will also enjoy cultural shows such as Phuket FantaSea, Siam Niramit, and Carnival Magic. They are all carefully choreographed and spectacular shows, and although they’re aimed at tourists, even many Thai people visit as well. The shows combine the history, mythology, and culture of Old Siam and modern-day Thailand.