Missionary Kids, Third Culture Kids

Quoted from a very informative and insightful article written by Matthew McNutt on his blog:

Positive things that characterize most Third Culture Kids:

• Third Culture Kids tend to be politically astute. They are interested in national and global events, and actively keep track of the news. They often times are aware of the issues and both sides of the debates.
• Third Culture Kids usually speak more than one language. It is not unusual for them to know three or four languages, often times better than they let on.
• Third Culture Kids are much more comfortable communicating with adults than the average American teenager.
• Third Culture Kids tend to possess greater maturity in social skills. They are able to adapt well and notice details others might not.
• Third Culture Kids possess global perspective. They are able to understand the perspectives other nations have and relate them one to another. As a result, they are usually less prejudiced than others their age.
• Third Culture Kids are achievers. A far greater percentage of TCK’s go on to earn Bachelor degrees and advanced degrees than other groups.
• Because of their own experiences of feeling different, Third Culture Kids are much more likely to reach out and accept new people, especially those with different cultural backgrounds.

In his article, Matt shares his personal past experience as a third culture kid, explains the vital needs of a TCK returning home after high school, and gives insightful advice of the role of a transitional mentor in a TCK’s life. Read the entire article here:

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third culture kids, missionary kids, TCKs, MKs, parenting, family, raising children in a another culture