Bridging Cultures: Raising Kids with South Asian Roots Today

As parents, we work tirelessly to give our kids the kind of life we once only dreamed of. For those of us who grew up in South Asian households and are now raising children in the United States/ Canada, that journey feels uniquely layered.

Our kids are getting an entirely different childhood than we did. Different schools, different social pressures, different expectations, different freedoms. And somewhere in the middle of all that, we carry this quiet desire to keep our roots alive. (I feel this way and I have a gut feeling other South Asian parents do too).

But it’s hard sometimes, isn’t it?
Life moves fast here. Cultural values can feel distant. And parenting in America/Canada comes with its own challenges.

Yet the truth is, our culture doesn’t have to fade. It can be part of our children’s everyday lives in small, meaningful ways. Three of the easiest and most joyful ways to do that are through food, clothing, and experiences. This has always been my personal philosophy about culture. 

Here is what I believe: Our culture doesn’t have to fade into the background. It can be a beautiful part of our children’s everyday lives. Woven naturally into what they wear, what they eat, and how they celebrate.

Culture Through Food

Food is memory.
The spices we smelled growing up, the dishes our moms and grandmothers made, the rituals around weekend breakfasts or festival sweets — all of that carries identity. Cooking with our kids creates this beautiful bridge between generations. It’s not just about recipes; it’s storytelling.

Culture Through Clothing

Clothing lets our kids wear their heritage proudly.
At En Route Designs, we created the Kurta Footie and have another clothing product project we are currently working on with this exact intention. Traditional South Asian silhouettes, reimagined for modern comfort.

Soft bamboo-cotton-spandex blends.
Easy movement for play.
Everyday wearability.

Because sharing your culture with your child shouldn’t feel like an event. It should feel natural, joyful, and comfortable.

Kurta Footie Collection

Culture Through Experiences

Festivals, community events, trips to see grandparents, kids’ books about South Asian heroes — these moments shape identity. They help our children see that they don’t have to choose between being South Asian and American. They can be fully both.

Our Philosophy at En Route Designs

We’re here for the parents trying their best to raise kids who feel connected, grounded, and proud of who they are. Culture isn’t something we force. It’s something we share — through the little things we do every day.

And if our clothing helps make that connection feel effortless and joyful, then that’s exactly the brand we want to be.

Thanks for your time reading this. 

-Abhishek