Until not long ago, being bilingual was perceived as a “flaw” in the United States rather than an asset. This perception has been shifted thanks to the data highlighting all the benefits of speaking more than one language.
Studies show that bilingual individuals develop better problem-solving skills and creative thinking and have additional cognitive advantages. For children, these benefits not only improve their brain development and many other benefits but also increases job opportunities in the future.
Bilingual children can be classified chiefly into two types:
- English Language Learner (ELL) - which describes a child who is learning English as a second language
- Dual Language Learner (DLL) – which describes a child learning two or more languages at the same time or learning a second language while developing their first language (ECLKC)
Parents who decide to raise bilingual children, either to maintain ties with their home culture or because they want them to learn another language, sometimes find some resistance from relatives. Be aware of the myths that can prevent you from pursuing this. A common belief is that learning two languages will confuse the child. It is usual for the child to use both languages in the same sentence at first, but eventually, they learn to separate both languages correctly. Raising a bilingual child takes commitment and persistence.
Language acquisition can be simultaneous when the child is exposed to both languages from a very early age or sequential, meaning that the child’s exposure to the second language begins after the first language is partially established or learned. Each process has its benefits and challenges. If you are determined to support your child in learning a second language, here are some helpful strategies:
- Set some “ground rules” for where and when each language will be used. For example:
- If your child is an ELL, speak your native language at home. Your child will learn English at school, and even if at the beginning it feels like it is harder for the child, the truth is that eventually, as their English improves, they will try to stop speaking their native language.
- If your child is a DLL and is learning a second language at school and you are fluent in that language, too, you can identify some routines in which you both only speak the second language.
- If your child is learning two languages at home because the adults speak different languages, you have multiple options. One adult can use only English and the other their native language, or you can use both your native language at home and English everywhere else.
- Be consistent. Unless there is a significant reason, stick to the language you agreed to use. Occasionally, your child may complain or refuse to reply using the same language you are using. Be firm.
- Communicate with teachers and school. You and your child’s teacher must stay in touch and agree on the strategies to support your child. Inform the school of any critical event that may affect the learning process, like a new sibling, grandparents visiting, etc.
- Provide opportunities to practice. Select books, music, TV videos, and programs that allow your child to hear the second language in different settings and enhance the chances of practicing it.
- Educate yourself. Raising a bilingual child is not easy, and there is no perfect way to do so. Read and learn how to overcome the obstacles you and your child may face from trusted resources. Some good ones are Reading Rockets, ECLKC, LSA & ASHA.
Learning a second language goes beyond learning different words and grammatical rules. It shapes our thinking, expands our world, and helps us embrace and understand diversity.