My Asian third grader fits right into Asian stereotypes

[Anonymous]

It’s like some cosmic joke. Of course I want to support his interests and his interests may change, but also wonder if I should encourage him in other activities while he is still young? He likes math, violin, chess, and plays soccer. He wants to take part in youth orchestra and do math and violin competitions. I feel a little weird that he is only pursuing stereotypical Asian things and I can’t say that it’s my doing because I actually do not enjoy string instruments, never participated in orchestra, and do not understand math or chess.

[Anonymous]

Have him try a bunch of random hobbies and find one he's okay with.

[Anonymous]

He’s playing soccer, not tennis, so that’s something?

-fellow Asian mom

[Anonymous]

It's okay. Don't make him ashamed for who he is.

[Anonymous]

What activities this age are not "Asian"? Pretty sure Asians have flooded them all because the parents want to find ways for their kids to stand out. Don't hold your kid back. If that's what he really wants to do, it's great news.

[Anonymous]

Let him enjoy his interests. He's a third grader!

[Anonymous]

That sounds cute. Even for the things he's not interested in he's probably good! Watch this:

[Anonymous]

Non-asian parent - youth orchestra has been amazing for our child. Encourage it.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:It's okay. Don't make him ashamed for who he is.

I’m not but I wonder if I am doing his a disservice not encouraging at least one thing that is a little different? Literally every activity we go to it’s only other Indian and Chinese boys. Very few girls and very few kids of other races.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:He’s playing soccer, not tennis, so that’s something?

-fellow Asian mom

That made me laugh! He actually did tennis last year but dropped because he liked soccer more.

[Anonymous]

He’ll pick up different interests as he gets older what else does he like or is good at?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Non-asian parent - youth orchestra has been amazing for our child. Encourage it.

Can you say more? I am not familiar with it.

[Anonymous]

It would be strategic to choose a less saturated instrument. For viola and french horn, orchestras roll out the red carpet.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Have him try a bunch of random hobbies and find one he's okay with.

Any suggestions?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:It would be strategic to choose a less saturated instrument. For viola and french horn, orchestras roll out the red carpet.

I know, I’m not thrilled and actually encouraged him to try piano (for musical education) or viola (way less saturated), but no go. He seems like the spotlight.