How Parenting in India Differs From The Netherlands: Dutch Mother Breaks Down 7 Eye-Opening Differences, Says 'Academic Pressure Starts Far Too Early in India' A Dutch mother living in Mumbai has shared her observations on the distinct parenting experiences in India compared to her homeland in the Netherlands. Ivana, who has resided in India for nearly nine years, reflected on her journey of raising her daughter while celebrating her second birthday. She emphasized that understanding the trade-offs of different parenting approaches is more valuable than labeling one as superior. Initially, she found many aspects of Indian parenting surprising, particularly the strong emphasis on community support. In the Netherlands, parenting often feels like a more independent responsibility, whereas in Mumbai, family and neighbors actively contribute to child-rearing. Ivana noted that relatives and neighbors are consistently available to help, watch over children, or engage with them, which took time to adjust to after her independent upbringing in the Netherlands. She also highlighted the welcoming nature of public spaces in India, where children are generally embraced in most environments, unlike some areas in the Netherlands where children may not always be fully accommodated. Ivana pointed out cultural differences in parenting styles, with Dutch culture encouraging independence from an early age. In contrast, Indian parenting often prioritizes interdependence and community bonding. For example, children in the Netherlands may start school independently at a younger age, while in India, they are more integrated into family and social networks. She values the strong community support in India but also believes in fostering respect and critical thinking in children, even within a more hierarchical system.#mumbai #netherlands #amsterdam #ivana #dutch_mother
Raising a Child in India Vs Netherlands: Dutch Woman Living in Mumbai Shares 7 Things That Surprised Her A Dutch woman living in Mumbai has shared her insights on the differences between raising a child in India and the Netherlands, highlighting cultural shifts, parenting styles, and daily life. After nearly nine years in India, Ivana, a Dutch mother, reflected on her daughter’s second birthday, offering a nuanced comparison of the two countries. She emphasized that the focus should not be on whether one system is better than the other, but rather on the unique trade-offs and learning opportunities each environment provides. One of the most striking differences Ivana noted was the role of community in parenting. In the Netherlands, she described a more structured and individualistic approach, where parents often handle responsibilities independently. In contrast, Mumbai’s environment felt more communal, with neighbors, family, and even building staff actively involved in a child’s life. “In Mumbai, the ‘village’ is real. From family to the community in your building, someone is always watching, helping, or playing,” she wrote. Adapting to this shared approach took time, especially for someone accustomed to a more independent lifestyle. Public life for children also differed significantly. Ivana observed that in India, children are generally accepted in most settings without restrictions, allowing families to navigate daily routines with greater ease. This stood in contrast to her experience in the Netherlands, where certain spaces were less open to young children. She noted that while this inclusivity was a positive, it also meant parents had to navigate a more flexible environment. Parenting styles also varied. Dutch children are often encouraged to be independent from an early age, such as cycling to school alone at eight.#mumbai #netherlands #amsterdam #ivana #dutch_woman
Dutch Woman Reveals Key Differences Between Parenting In India And Netherlands A Dutch mother living in Mumbai has shared her reflections on raising a child in India, highlighting significant contrasts with parenting in the Netherlands. Ivana, who has resided in India for nearly nine years, reflected on her experiences as her daughter celebrated her second birthday. She emphasized that while comparing parenting approaches between the two countries is common, the focus should be on understanding the inherent compromises of each system rather than judging one as superior. Ivana noted that the most striking difference lies in the sense of community. In the Netherlands, she described parenting as a solitary endeavor, often requiring long-term independence. In contrast, Mumbai offers a robust support network where family members and neighbors actively engage in child-rearing. She admitted it took time for her Dutch mindset to adapt to this "village" mentality, where assistance and companionship are readily available. Public spaces in India also stood out to her. Unlike in the Netherlands, where children are sometimes restricted in certain venues, Indian public spaces are more welcoming to young children. Ivana observed that children are seamlessly integrated into social settings, which contrasts with the more guarded approach in the Netherlands. She further explained cultural differences in parenting styles. Dutch children are encouraged to be self-reliant from an early age, such as walking to school alone, while Indian parenting emphasizes mutual support and community involvement. Ivana highlighted how her daughter is growing up in a trilingual environment, effortlessly navigating Dutch, English, and Hindi.#mumbai #india #amsterdam #ivana #dutch_mothers
