Author: Jiwon Yoon

The First Connection: Prenatal Care Through Korean Taegyo – Part 1: Concept

In Korean culture, embarking on the journey of parenthood begins with the profound and ancient practice of Taegyo. Taegyo is a traditional Korean practice involving various activities to nurture and bond with the unborn child. This tradition fosters a deep connection between parents and their unborn child. Parents partake in activities such as listening to music, reading stories, and talking to their unborn child. These activities are believed to play a crucial role in shaping the child’s future emotional and intellectual development.

Taegyo is deeply embedded in Korean history and is considered the cornerstone of effective parenting. This tradition emphasizes the importance of a nurturing prenatal environment, which is thought to significantly influence the child’s health and temperament right from the earliest stages of life. Historically, these practices have been fundamental, laying the groundwork for a lifetime of benefits.

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Different Perspective: My Response to ‘The Parents Who Regret Having Children

In this response to R.O. Kwon’s recent Time article, “The Parents Who Regret Having Children,” I aim to share my personal journey, thoughts, and reactions to the complex and often stigmatized subject of parental regret. Kwon’s article explores a reality many parents face but seldom voice: the regret of having children.

I once believed I would never have a child. My husband and I spent 13 blissful years of marriage child-free, a choice that brought us immense fulfillment. Our life without children was rich and satisfying, and we proved to ourselves that a child-free existence can be equally rewarding. If you’re contemplating parenthood and feel that remaining child-free would make you happier, I urge you to confidently pursue your own path without succumbing to societal pressures.

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Embracing Global Perspectives in Parenting: The Value of Learning from Different Cultures

Welcome back to my blog! I’m excited to begin a series that will delve into various aspects of Korean parenting styles. This inaugural post in the K-parenting series will highlight the benefits of learning about diverse parenting styles from around the world.

In the world we inhabit, there is no such thing as a perfect individual, just as there are no perfect nations or cultures. This imperfection underscores the importance of learning from each other, especially in the context of parenting. By exploring how different cultures approach child-rearing, we can gain valuable insights and expand our own parenting toolkits.

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A World of Learning: A Checklist for Fostering Children’s Cultural Competence

Today, I’m excited to introduce a valuable tool I’ve created: the “Characteristics of Culturally Competent Kids Checklist.” In our increasingly interconnected world, fostering cultural competence in our children is more crucial than ever. This checklist is not just a tool for observing and guiding our children but also a mirror for our own growth and learning as parents.
The Purpose of the Checklist Cultural competence is about understanding, appreciating, and effectively interacting with people from diverse cultures. It’s an essential skill for thriving in our global community. By nurturing these traits in our children, we’re equipping them with the ability to view the world through a lens of empathy, respect, and understanding. This checklist aims to provide a clear framework for identifying and fostering these vital skills in your child.

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