When I first became a mom in Canada, I thought I had a pretty good idea of what to expect. I read all the parenting blogs, joined the local mom groups, and even watched a few Canadian family YouTubers for tips. But the truth is, nothing quite prepared me for the unique experience of raising kids in a country that’s both incredibly diverse and beautifully complex.
Here are some of the things that genuinely surprised me in the best (and sometimes most challenging) ways about raising children in Canada.
🍁1. The Emphasis on Independence from an Early Age
In my culture, we tend to keep our children close and we help them with everything, from getting dressed to making friends. But in Canada, I quickly noticed how much independence is encouraged, even for little ones.
Teachers expect kids to put on their own shoes, pack their own bags, and speak up for themselves. At first, it felt strange to step back, but over time, I saw how it built confidence in my child. Now, I love watching them proudly say, “I can do it myself, Mom!”
❄️ 2. The Way Children Play No Matter the Weather!
Coming from a warmer country, I was shocked the first time I saw children outside playing in the snow during recess. I thought, “Are they serious? It’s freezing!”
But in Canada, outdoor play is part of life even in winter. Schools embrace it, and parents are always prepared with layers, snow pants, and waterproof gloves. It taught me to stop worrying so much about the cold and to let my kids experience the seasons fully. Now we go sledding, make snow angels, and drink hot chocolate after what became one of our favourite traditions.In my culture, we tend to keep our children close and we help them with everything, from getting dressed to making friends. But in Canada, I quickly noticed how much independence is encouraged, even for little ones.
Teachers expect kids to put on their own shoes, pack their own bags, and speak up for themselves. At first, it felt strange to step back, but over time, I saw how it built confidence in my child. Now, I love watching them proudly say, “I can do it myself, Mom!”
🌍 3. The Beautiful Mix of Cultures
One of the most heartwarming things about raising kids in Canada is how diverse their classrooms are. My child’s friends come from all over the world: India, the Philippines, Nigeria, China, Brazil, Syria and every family brings something special to share.
Cultural days at school are magical: kids wear traditional clothes, share food, and proudly talk about where their families come from. It’s a reminder that Canada’s strength really is in its diversity, and our children are growing up learning respect and acceptance as normal.
💬4. The Openness About Feelings and Mental Health
Another surprise was how open Canadian schools and families are about emotions. Teachers talk about kindness, empathy, and mental well-being in a way I’d never seen before.
At first, it felt odd to hear my child say things like, “I need a break, Mom, I’m feeling overwhelmed.” But I soon realized how valuable that emotional awareness is. It’s something many of us as adults are still learning and I’m grateful my kids are growing up with that emotional vocabulary.
Conclusion :
Raising kids in Canada is not without its challenges; there are long winters, cultural adjustments, and moments of homesickness. But there’s also a deep sense of safety, community, and hope.Every day, I see my children becoming thoughtful, kind, and curious little humans. And that makes all the surprises, struggles, and adjustments completely worth it.
Link for Weather: https://www.theweathernetwork.com/en
