Episode 3: Parenting in Translation – Why One Word Means So Much Across Cultures

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating differences in how the concept of "parenting" varies across cultures, starting with a surprising fact: the word "parenting" doesn’t even exist in some languages, like French and German! We discuss how these linguistic differences reflect deeper cultural expectations around raising children and the role of parents. From whether parents should help with homework to when kids are expected to walk to school independently, we share our own experiences and insights as expats navigating parenting in new cultures.

Topics Discussed in This Episode:

• The absence of the term "parenting" in French and German, and what it reveals about cultural values
• Different expectations around parental involvement in homework
• Balancing independence and guidance, especially in school and social settings
• How language and culture influence perceptions of "good parenting" and autonomy

Vocabulary Shared in This Episode: Parenting/Parenthood

• French: "La parentalité (parenthood) and “élever” (to raise)
• German: “Erziehung” (child-rearing).

We want to hear from you!
Tell us how parenting is viewed in your culture. Is there even a word for it?

This episode was loving produced by Marisa & Astrid.
Music by Lonely Heaven Music

We want to hear from you! Share your personal stories of parenting across cultures or suggest topics for future episodes!

And don’t forget to like, follow, and subscribe and leave us a review.

Connect with Us:

• Instagram: @cultureclashparenting
• Email: cultureclashparenting@gmail.com

In this episode of Culture Clash Parenting, Marisa and Astrid dive into the humorous and sometimes embarrassing world of "faux amis," or "false friends"—words that sound the same across languages but mean completely different things. They share personal stories of language mishaps and explore how such experiences shape their lives as expat parents. From accidentally calling their kids rude names to confusing medical terms that lead to near heart attacks, they laugh through the chaos and lessons of navigating language barriers.

Topics Discussed in This Episode:

• Understanding "faux amis" and the funny language mix-ups they create
• How language differences can lead to embarrassing (or hilarious) situations with kids, family, and friends
• The courage to speak and make mistakes as a foreigner in a new country
• Tips for using humor and resilience as tools for adaptation and growth
• Encouragement for listeners to embrace language mistakes and the learning they bring

Key Takeaways:

• Language barriers can create surprising (and often humorous) misunderstandings. Learning from these moments is essential to adapting in a new culture.
• Having an accent or making mistakes in a foreign language is a sign of courage and effort. Marisa and Astrid encourage others to celebrate their bravery.
• Sharing these humorous moments helps create a sense of community and resilience among those navigating cross-cultural experiences.

A Few of Our Favorite Faux Amis

• Download your FREE PDF of the faux amis we mentioned in this episode here.

This episode was loving produced by Marisa & Astrid.
Music by Lonely Heaven Music

We want to hear from you! Share your personal stories of parenting across cultures or suggest topics for future episodes!

And don’t forget to like, follow, and subscribe and leave us a review.

Connect with Us:

• Instagram: @cultureclashparenting
• Email: cultureclashparenting@gmail.com

In the debut episode of Culture Clash Parenting, co-hosts Marisa Raymond and Astrid share their powerful journey of friendship, beginning in an online miscarriage support group in 2006. Both women, hailing from different parts of the world—Marisa, an American living in France, and Astrid, a German who moved to the U.S.—discuss their shared experiences of loss, cultural differences in healthcare, and the emotional toll of miscarriage.

Marisa reflects on her challenges navigating the U.S. healthcare system, including difficulties accessing prenatal genetic testing, and contrasts this with the care she received when experiencing another miscarriage in France. Astrid opens up about her miscarriage experience in the U.S. and the challenges with finding support in a foreign land.

Together, they emphasize the critical role of community and support during difficult times, especially for those living abroad. With warmth and empathy, they encourage listeners to share their own stories of loss and offer suggestions for building support systems across cultures.

Key Takeaways:

• You are not alone—finding support, whether online or in person, can make a significant difference in your healing journey.
• Cultural clashes in healthcare systems can add challenges, but navigating these with the help of others brings strength.
• Humor, empathy, and love are essential tools for coping with loss and raising children in multicultural environments.

Resources Mentioned:

• October 15th Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day—a day dedicated to raising awareness and providing support for families who have experienced pregnancy loss.

This episode was loving produced by Marisa & Astrid.
Music by Lonely Heaven Music

We want to hear from you! Share your personal stories of parenting across cultures or suggest topics for future episodes!

And don’t forget to like, follow, and subscribe and leave us a review.

Connect with Us:

• Instagram: @cultureclashparenting
• Email: cultureclashparenting@gmail.com