Growing up speaking two languages can be rewarding and challenging all at once. Your bilingual kids can gain a deeper appreciation for and connection to their culture but may occasionally find it hard to grasp the concept fully. However, there are many great reasons to help your children expand their vocabulary and horizons. They can develop a stronger relationship with you and others and see the world from a broader perspective.
Here’s what to know about raising bilingual kids. Once you’ve decided to take the plunge, there are many great ways to help your kids learn two languages and have fun doing it. You can make their world a bigger place through words.
Pros of Language Proficiency
Being bilingual has tons of upsides. Your little ones will benefit from enhanced cognitive skills like improved memory as they pick up new words and greater cultural awareness, which helps strengthen family and social connections. Being able to switch between languages boosts mental flexibility, enabling them to approach problems from different perspectives and develop innovative solutions. Attention and self-control can also be enhanced.
Approximately 22% of the U.S. population speaks a language other than English at home. Perhaps you speak Spanish, Swedish, or Swahili in your household and have a strong connection to your roots this way. Certain words or phrases may be part of your vernacular and come naturally to you. Your kids can feel a greater bond to your family history by speaking the language of the history you share.
Cons Are Mostly Conceptualized
The downsides of teaching your kids to be bilingual are few and may mainly come from your own worries. Maybe you’re concerned that your child will be confused and mix the two languages up. This does happen, but it is actually a normal part of bilingual development called code-switching, in which words from one language are spun into another.
For example,they might say, “I’m thirsty — can I have some agua?” There’s no need to be worried about this, though. Consider it an indicator of their linguistic creativity, and don’t be afraid to use the two languages when speaking to them. Your little ones will understand you, and the words will come naturally in the flow of conversation.
How to Teach Bilingualism
There are several ways to encourage bilingualism in your household and make growing up speaking two languages feel natural. Add some fun by trying the following methods.
Write It Out
Do your kids like to write stories? Have them write one version in English and the other in their second language. Do they want to tell their grandparents about their fun summer camp experience? They can send them two different letters, each with the same story. This way, they get the practice of writing things down and seeing the similarities and differences of each language.
Read to Them
Reading stories to your kids at bedtime — or anytime — is an excellent way to build a bond with them and develop core memories they will cherish. Search for books that deal with bilingualism and multiculturalism so they can be in touch with their heritage and learn new words to use in everyday life.
Go for Immersive Experiences
Consider hiring a bilingual nanny or sending your kids to a preschool that teaches in more than one language. Is there a multicultural community center in your neighborhood? See what it offers in terms of language-building classes or experiences. They can learn more about their heritage while practicing conversations with others.
Watch Movies Together
Plan fun movie nights at home and show children’s films from another country. Make it something to look forward to by focusing on the theme and making food to go with it. Spice up your popcorn with seasonings that are popular in your culture. Having your kids hear characters speaking a language they are learning alongside English is an enjoyable way to help them develop their skills.
Embrace the Benefits of Being Bilingual
There are so many excellent reasons to raise your little ones speaking two languages, from improving their cognitive abilities to strengthening family bonds. Consider these ways to make bilingualism second nature. Your children will gain greater perspective and a lifetime of opportunities, and you will always share that special connection.
Jack Shaw is the senior editor at Modded and a single father with a special interest in navigating the ins and outs of being a parent. As parents, the work we put in isn’t always recognized, but it’s absolutely essential to the health and well-being of our children. You can find more of Jack’s work in publications like Tiny Buddha, Parent.com, The Company of Dads and more.
