MCRD/ERR PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. -- The Depot Child Development Center celebrated International Week, Aug. 25-29, to educate younger children on the cultures of different countries throughout the world, such as Mexico, Italy, Israel, France, Japan, China and America.
During the week, the 3-year-old to 5-year-old children learned to speak several different languages, painted other countries' flags, made a piñata and prepared various culinary dishes, which were featured at the cookout held Aug. 29.
"Since we have children of various ethnicities, such as Mexican and Asian, this gives us a way for all the children to celebrate those different cultures," said Anna Ghionis, the training and curriculum specialist at the CDC.
As part of the cook out, each group of children prepared a culinary dish to represent their country, such as an authentic Mexican dip, Somen noodles, Inari Sushi, lasagna, Italian cream cake and hot dogs, among other dishes.
Some of the children dressed in the garb of their native land. Representing Japan, a 3-year-old boy wore a kimono. Another child representing America was seen running around in camouflage attire.
One mother said the week was not only fun for the children, but also a valuable learning tool.
"If parents are deployed to different countries, it's important for their children to start learning about different cultures because it's a big part of growing up," said Wendy Christensen, wife of Maj. Erik Christensen. "It's very important for a child to be immersed in different cultures at an early age, and this week has been great for doing that."
Aside from being educational the cookout also provided the children an opportunity to share some time with their parents, who might not normally have the time during the day due to a hectic work schedule.
"I came to this because my daughter was involved, and I didn't want her to be out here alone saying, 'Where's my momma?'" said Sgt. Nicole Norman, drill instructor at Support Bn., who said that she was thankful that she had the opportunity to attend the event. "I have to do what I have to do to be there for my daughter when I can."
After all the children got their faces painted and had their fill of a variety of cultural delectables, they each took a swing at the piñata in an effort to reach the hidden treasures inside.
After it was all said and done, the children left the cookout with bags full of candy and smiles on their faces.
"[International Week] went great," said Ghionis. "The children really enjoyed having the cookout and having their parents involved as well. It was a lot of work that the parents and the teachers did, but the children enjoyed it so that's what's important."