A Parent's Guide

Studies show that there are several advantages for children growing up with more than one language. Children may more quickly understand the way languages work in general. Because they deal with different languages and their grammar and words daily, they compare the languages and their rules from early on. This happens usually in a playful manner. They may be more attentive and conscious to the sound and composition of words, which may in addition accelerate language acquisition and learning, also in other languages, like the school language. They may be able to focus their attention earlier and better than children growing up with only the school language. Also, they may understand earlier that different people may know other things than they do (the so-called theory of mind). Thus, growing up with more than one language from early on can be considered valuable for the general development of a child.

The family language plays an important role here (when not neglected or poorly supported by the parents). Parents transport not only words, expressions, and grammar by using the languages they master best. They also transfer values, beliefs, ideas, and attitudes that are part of their language and cultural identity. To speak and listen to the family language may also transport a sense of belonging and comfort. Depending on the context families live in, they pursue different ways of communicating with their children, use different topics when interacting and different amounts of words and expressions and address their children in different ways. The more parents speak with their children, the more children can profit from the family language. Being competent and also confident in the family language may heighten the child's motivation and curiosity to learn other languages. In other words, it may support mastery of the school language as well. For this reason, parents are well advised to make an effort to keep the family language.

Getting early access to the school language is seen as crucial for the further school career of children. Researchers suggest that children might profit from being introduced to the school language early and systematically. Ideally, this could happen before they enter elementary school. This is important because it enables children to understand the teachers' instructions and learn alongside their peers. Without early and significant access to the school language, equity in education is rarely reached, and many children struggle throughout their childhood to catch up. This may lead to less success in their school and professional career later on. Kindergarten teachers may play a crucial role here because they are often the first to introduce the school language systematically. Also, parents can make it easier for their children by offering opportunities to get familiar with the school language at home. In other words, parents are well advised to foster their children's attempt to become competent users of the family and school languages as soon as possible.