Cultural Taboos
Below are some topics to be cognisant of and sensitive toward when working with Mennonite students. Once again, I wish to remind you that different families will have tremendously varying opinions on the list below. Some families may be fine with one topic, but the next may be a big deal. If you are not sure whether something is offensive to the Mennonite culture or not, ASK instead of risking issues springing up with the parents.
Remember, parents are just trying to protect their children's innocence and preserve their values.
Remember, parents are just trying to protect their children's innocence and preserve their values.
· Dinosaurs
· Witches, vampires, goblins, ghosts, monsters (especially scary-looking ones)
· Halloween
· Hollywood, movies, super heroes, (Sometimes parents disapprove of T.V. and movies in general – ask permission rather than ask forgiveness! Youngsters may be frightened of simple movies because some are not accustomed to watching any movies at all.)
· Magic & witch craft
· Evolution
· Pregnancy/ nursing babies
· Sexual education
· Atheism, agnosticism, religions worshipping other deities besides God, etc.
· Varying biblical interpretations
· Tattoos and excessive piercings
· Divorce, living common-law with a partner, trans-gender relationships, etc.
· Modesty is important to the Mennonites. Female teachers who refrain from wearing low cut necklines or short skirts are often held in higher regard.
· Witches, vampires, goblins, ghosts, monsters (especially scary-looking ones)
· Halloween
· Hollywood, movies, super heroes, (Sometimes parents disapprove of T.V. and movies in general – ask permission rather than ask forgiveness! Youngsters may be frightened of simple movies because some are not accustomed to watching any movies at all.)
· Magic & witch craft
· Evolution
· Pregnancy/ nursing babies
· Sexual education
· Atheism, agnosticism, religions worshipping other deities besides God, etc.
· Varying biblical interpretations
· Tattoos and excessive piercings
· Divorce, living common-law with a partner, trans-gender relationships, etc.
· Modesty is important to the Mennonites. Female teachers who refrain from wearing low cut necklines or short skirts are often held in higher regard.