The Anthropology of Being an Expat Kid

When you think of the word anthropology, you might think of scientists digging up fossils or living with tribes in the jungle. But really, anthropology is the study of people, how we live, think, and interact. And if you’re an expat kid, you’ve basically been doing anthropology your whole life.

Moving to a new country means you suddenly notice everything:

• How people greet each other (handshake, bow, hug?)

• What’s considered polite and what’s not.

• The foods people eat and when they eat them.

• Even how people talk in public.

Being an expat kid often means you’re blending different cultures into your own identity. For example, you might greet your friends one way at school, but your family another way at home.

Anthropologists call this a “third culture” - a mix of influences that makes you unique.

Being an expat kid isn’t just about moving around. It’s about learning how different humans work in different places in the world. If you can navigate different cultures now, you’re building skills that will help you for the rest of your life. 🌍