Body language differs greatly from Culture to culture, and misunderstandings and embarrassment can result when gestures are misinterpreted. For example, the Canadian gesture used to beckon people is considered rude by the Vietnamese culture because it is used only for animals in Vietnam. The Vietnamese gesture for beckoning someone is made by extending the arm with the fingers pointing down and wiggling the fingers. Dress can have a religious or other type of significance in some cultures. Some foods are not eaten by particular cultures, and many ordinary Canadian lunch-box items may be totally unfamiliar to students or their families.
Teachers can help all of their students by discussing foods from other countries with the class.