We cannot deny that we are so immersed in Western/American culture, and because of this, our kids are growing up the same way. We speak to them in English and we encourage them to watch American cartoons and read English story books. On the other hand, children learn about Filipino culture in the formal venue - school. Does this guarantee they'll learn about local culture? Probably not. Because they will associate it with school and not with their casual activities, our kids may associate Filipino literature with rules and studying, and not as something that they can enjoy during their past time.

Why don't you let your kids try something different for their birthday - a Filipino-themed party - so that they'll get to enjoy Filipino history, folk tales, and culture. Sure, your kids might protest at first, but if you orient them properly, then they'll begin to see how fun it'll be. If you really think your kids would protest, then you can try doing this for younger kids that aren't even old enough to know what's going on or think that what's happening is baduy (ages 1-5).

Throwing a Filipino-themed birthday is simple. With or without a budget, you can execute this party, as long as you're creative enough to make the party really festive and not look like a Linggo ng Wika celebration.