Preserving Portuguese and Brazilian Culture Abroad: Tips for Bilingual Families
Don't miss this intimate episode of 'Maternidade for do Brasil | Motherhood Abroad', where we talk to Alessandra Ravasi, a Portuguese teacher and dedicated mother, about her transcontinental journey with her family from Brazil to the United States. When her son was just a year and a half old, Alessandra and her husband made the decisive choice to move to the USA, a step that would forever change the dynamics of their family. Years later, they welcomed the sweet addition of a girl to the family, further rooting their lives in American territory.
Alessandra shares with us the golden rule in her house: “Portuguese Only”, a policy established to ensure that the Portuguese language and Brazilian culture remain alive among them. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining the tradition she learned in Brazil related to communication, especially during meals. Lunch and dinner are sacred times to strengthen the connection with her children, a practice she believes is fundamental for family cohesion and well-being.
Alessandra gives us valuable insights into the challenges and joys of raising bilingual children in a predominantly English-speaking environment. She discusses the strategies she uses to immerse her children in the Portuguese language and Brazilian culture, from reading stories in Portuguese to celebrating Brazilian festivities, ensuring that their roots remain strong even far from their homeland.
This episode is a celebration of cultural diversity and the importance of preserving our linguistic and cultural identity in a globalized world. Alessandra's story is an inspiring example for families in similar situations, showing that it is possible to keep traditions and the mother tongue alive, even in an environment with a different culture.
Don't miss this intimate and revealing conversation about family life, bilingualism, and the beauty of keeping cultural traditions alive away from home.
