How to Keep Kids Speaking Their Native Language

Speaking more than one language is a prized skill in today's world. Children who speak the language of their residence area as well as retain the ability to speak their native language are one step ahead of the game. Incorporating activities into your child's life that require the use of the native language will keep those skills strong as he or she grows up.

Things You'll Need

  • DVD or BlueRay player
  • Chart
  • Stickers
  • Snack foods
  • Photo album

Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase movies and shows in the native language. Does the child have a favorite cartoon? A quick Internet search will turn up an array of cartoons and children's shows in many different languages. Build a collection of them and make Saturday morning native language morning during which the child can watch television but must choose shows in the native language to view.

    • 2

      Implement a reward system. Put a chart on the wall that encourages speaking the native language. For example, for each day that your child speaks the native language with family members for an entire day, he gets a gold star. Once he has accumulated five stars he chooses from predetermined prizes. Rewards might include extra time before bed, time spent alone with a parent, or inviting a friend to sleep over.

    • 3

      Lead by example. Be sure you are speaking the native language as often as possible during your daily interactions. Whether you are asking how her day has been or telling her to clean her room, consistent use of the native language will help the child retain it.

    • 4

      Start a second language playgroup. Invite participants near your child's age who also speak the native language and arrange for the group to meet on a regular basis. For fun, provide snacks and activities that stem from the native country. According to Christina Bosemark, founder of the Multilingual Children's Association, children in the group will continue to learn from each other and maintain strong language skills.

    • 5

      Visit the country with older children. Traveling to the native language country to experience its culture first-hand will cement the beauty and importance of maintaining native language skills in your child's mind, according to Bosemark. Take lots of photos to use as visual reminders when you are back home.

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