Raising Bilingual Children: A Guide to Multilingual Parenting
In a recent LIFE KIT episode from NPR, reporter Julia Furlan shares her experience of raising her child bilingually in Portuguese and English. She explores the challenges and rewards of raising a multilingual child, alongside expert advice from speech therapists.
Key Takeaways
1. Pick a Style
Whether it’s “one parent, one language” or a “time and place” strategy, find a method that suits your family. For example, Julia speaks Portuguese to her child, while her spouse uses English.
2. Consistency is Key
Incorporate the second language into daily routines, like reading books, playing, or watching shows in the target language. Little habits add up over time.
3. Bilingualism Does Not Cause Delay
Research debunks the myth that learning more than one language leads to speech delays or confusion. Children are sponges, they absorb languages without issues.
4. Find the Joy
Learning a new language can be fun! Singing songs, playing games, or using tech like FaceTime with family members can make learning feel natural and joyful.
Bilingualism Benefits
From better cognitive function to enhanced career opportunities, being bilingual opens up worlds for children. Plus, it fosters a deeper connection to culture and identity. Ultimately, raising bilingual children is about creating consistent exposure and making the process enjoyable for both parents and children.
