By Admin 
For any parent or carer with Basque roots, passing on a sense of where they come from is a special kind of responsibility. This is about more than just history; it’s about sharing a unique identity, with its ancient language and deep-rooted traditions. Giving this to a child, whether they are your own or a foster child who has joined your family, offers them a solid connection to their own unique story. It doesn’t have to be a grand, complicated project. Often, it’s the small, everyday things that make the biggest difference, weaving Basque culture into the life of your home in a way that feels completely natural.
A Few Words of Euskara Go a Long Way
The Basque language, Euskara, is what makes the culture so distinct. You don’t need to be fluent to make a start. Sprinkling a few Basque words into your daily conversation is a brilliant first step. Simple greetings like kaixo (hello), saying eskerrik asko (thank you), or using Basque names for food and animals makes the language feel familiar and friendly. Children’s songs in Euskara are also a brilliant way to let the sounds and cadence of the language become second nature. The goal isn’t to turn your living room into a classroom, but to make Euskara a warm and normal part of the family soundtrack.
Get Together in the Kitchen
There is no quicker way to someone’s heart than through their stomach, and the same is true for culture. The Basque Country is famous for its food, and you can bring those flavours right into your own kitchen. Why not have a go at making pintxos, the classic Basque small snacks on bread? It’s an activity the whole family can get involved in. You could also try a simple fish stew like marmitako on a cold evening or bake a Gateau Basque as a special treat. Whether a child has been with you from birth or you care for them with Foster Care Associates, the kitchen is a great leveller. It’s a place to chat, make a bit of a mess, and create memories together.
Discover Basque Music and Dance
Basque music has a spirit all of its own, from powerful choirs to the lively sound of the trikitixa accordion. You don’t need to be an expert to share it. Put on some traditional Basque music while you’re cooking or driving and see how the children react. Just watching videos of the powerful folk dances, with their high kicks and athletic displays, can be captivating. You could even learn a few simple steps together. It’s about having fun and showing them that their culture has a rhythm and energy that is exciting to be a part of.
Share the Old Stories
There’s a special kind of quiet at bedtime, which is just right for sharing the old Basque legends. These are much more than simple fairy tales; they’re proper myths that have been told for centuries. You could talk about Mari, the goddess said to live high up in the mountains, or Basajaun, the ‘Lord of the Woods’ who was believed to protect the animals. If you’re not confident telling them from memory, find a book with good pictures. Or just tell them in your own words, since children love hearing stories from the people they trust, no matter how you tell them.
You don’t need a grand plan to pass on a culture. It’s done in the small moments: the shared meal, the song sung together, the story told at bedtime. By bringing these little pieces of Basque life into your home, you are doing something incredibly important. These shared activities build a quiet confidence in who your children are and where they come from. It’s a wonderful gift to give, creating a legacy of connection that will stay with them for life.