Without a doubt, parenting is challenging. But if you’re raising your child bilingually, you’re dealing with a whole new layer of complexity.
This is my experience.
We had recently moved to Germany, and while my daughter naturally absorbed the language around her, I struggled to keep up. “What did you say honey? Was that English or German?” became a common refrain in our household.
In this post, I’ll share the unexpected challenges my family faced while raising bilingual children and practical strategies that helped us get through the more challenging times.
1. The Bilingual Decision
As an Australian-German couple, we decided to raise our children bilingually to maintain connections with both sides of the family.
We were intrigued by the reported benefits of bilingualism, but we soon realised the challenges ahead.
Solution
- Set Clear Language Rules: Decide which parent speaks which language to the child. We adopted the One Parent – One Language (OPOL) approach.
- Research and Prepare: Seek advice from other bilingual families and educate yourself on effective language strategies.
- Embrace Flexibility: Understand that the journey won’t always be smooth, and adjustments may be necessary along the way.
2. Minimal Exposure to the Minority Language
Children need constant exposure to a language to learn it effectively. Providing enough exposure to the minority language can be challenging, especially if both parents aren’t fluent in it.
Solution
- Create a Language-Rich Environment: Offer a variety of resources such as books, games, audio books, songs, and TV shows in the minority language.
- Connect with Other Bilingual Families: Seek out other families who speak the minority language to encourage your children to use it.
- Consistent Practice: Speak to your children in the minority language consistently, regardless of the situation.
3. Muddled Sentences
Even bilingual adults mix up languages, so it’s little wonder that our kids do, too.
However, this can negatively impact children’s language learning. Children need to hear accurate language use to differentiate between languages.
Solution
- Model Proper Language Use: Make a conscious effort to speak each language clearly and accurately.
- Take Care of Yourself: Ensure you’re well-rested and relaxed to minimise language mix-ups.
- Keep a Sense of Humor: Laughing at mistakes can help ease tension and create a positive language-learning environment.
4. Feeling Alienated from your Child
Not understanding your child’s language can lead to feelings of inferiority and failure.
This can be emotionally challenging for parents.
Solution
- Maintain Realistic Expectations: Accept that misunderstandings are normal in a bilingual household.
- Use Games and Activities: Turn language challenges into fun activities, like charades, to improve communication.
- Encourage Non-Verbal Communication: Let your child use gestures or actions to express themselves when language fails.
5. Bilingual Is NOT the Same as Bicultural
Raising bilingual children doesn’t automatically mean they’ll fully understand both cultures.
It’s essential to actively incorporate cultural elements into their upbringing.
Solution
- Know Your Values: Identify the cultural aspects that are important to you and include them in your daily parenting.
- Provide Context: Use books, photos, and stories to introduce cultural elements from your home to your children.
- Accept Your Reality: Understand that your children will have a hybrid understanding of culture and embrace their unique identity.
Parenting abroad and feeling homesick? Read my tips to overcome it here.
Conclusion
Despite its challenges of raising children bilingually, it’s a rewarding experience.
Remember to be kind to yourself, stay consistent, and find joy in the process.
Have you experienced any of these challenges raising bilingual children?
Share your experiences in the comments below!
