Healthy Way to Educate Asian American Children in Both Their Originated Language and English
By: Daniel Song
Bilingualism
Language is an important part of human identity. In order to learn languages, education is needed. Asian American children are typically expected to learn both their native language and English, illustrating distinct scenarios of difficulties for both adults and children compared to native americans. There is a reason for education, given that children "grow up learning and using two or more languages" according to the National Library of Medicine. All parents want the best for their children, and bilingualism has numerous advantages in the eyes of parents. But what parents fail to understand is the struggle of laying the groundwork for their children to adapt to being fluent in both languages. This article will observe the significance, identification, and strategies for bilingual education.
Many Asian American children living in America are bilingual, speaking both their native language as well as English | Image: demonite from IStock
Benefits of bilingualism
In modern society, there are many studies and researches about bilingualism. One study shows that the “benefits against the cognitive decline that’s sometimes seen with healthy aging, and that’s regularly seen with dementia and not only at the individual level” (Viorica Marian, PhD). Bilingualism helps protect the brain from cognitive decline that comes with aging and dementia. By using two languages, bilingual people build stronger cognitive skills, which can slow down the effect of dementia. This not only keeps individuals mentally sharp for longer but also benefits society by reducing the overall impact of age-related cognitive issues. Additionally, maintaining a heritage language helps preserve cultural identity and familial bonds, which are crucial for emotional well-being and a strong sense of self. For Asian American children, learning both English and their family's native language—whether it's Mandarin, Korean, Tagalog, Hindi—supports academic achievement and fosters a deeper understanding of their cultural roots.
How should parents treat bilingualism?
It is clear that bilingualism is important, therefore parents need to provide effective and healthy strategies for children to learn. The only downside of the method is that it is recommended to “begin in pre-k or kindergarten” (nj.gov). As a bilingual student myself, learning a new language is preferred in a younger childhood than a teenage years. One of the methods for educating bilingual children is the “Dual Language Programs” from the New Jersey Department of Education. The program consists of instructional time between English and the heritage language, allowing children to develop fluency in both languages simultaneously. The program not only provides steps, but assures “students achieve proficiency, biliteracy, and bilingualism in English and in a second language” (nj.gov). If a home scheduling program is not the case, there is always an alternative. Heritage language schools and after-school programs that focus on the second language are also helpful for the children’s education. These programs often focus on reading, writing, and cultural practices in the heritage language. In the website “cal.org”, there are many lists of places in New Jersey with a variety of languages. Enrolling children in these programs can assure their regular schooling and provide additional support in language journey.
Though it may seem late, if a child is in their teenage years, there are still many ways for them to learn their native language. Studies show that teenagers can successfully learn a second language through immersive experiences, such as bilingual education programs, where subjects are taught in both languages. Methods like dual language instruction, which integrates both languages into daily learning, help teens develop strong bilingual skills. Research also suggests that engaging in cultural activities, language clubs, and interactive language apps can enhance language acquisition. Additionally, having consistent exposure to both languages at home and school, and practicing with peers, can further support bilingualism in teenagers.
Even as a teenager, learning their native language is possible and beneficial for Asian Americans | Image Credit: Solstock on IStock
In education programs, it's crucial to uphold the cultural heritage within the household for Asian American children's development. Preserving their connection to their native language fosters a cultural identity leading to a positive outlook and resilience against discrimination. Furthermore, the environment plays a role in the children's adaptation. Parents have the ability to establish an atmosphere in their homes by consistently incorporating their heritage language into daily interactions with their children through conversations and storytelling while also involving them in cultural activities. Research indicates that children who are exposed to both languages within their home environment have a chance of developing a well rounded proficiency in both languages.
Conclusion
Educating Asian American children to learn their native language and English at the same is not just about an additional skill, but a benefactor for cognitive development and cultural identity. It also requires methods or teaching strategies such as planning a schedule or registering for a program. The healthy approaches the article provided are well recommended methods. By making your Asian American children learn and adapt to the environment that values bilingualism and cultural heritage, it can boost their academics, social skills, and emotional skills.
References
Lindholm-Leary, Kathryn, et al. English Language Learners in U.S. Schools: An Overview of Research Findings. vol. 10, Mahwah, NJ, Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, 2005. 1 vols.
Thomas, Wayne, and Virginia Collier. A National Study of School Effectiveness for Language Minority Students' Long-Term Academic Achievement. Santa Cruz, CA, Center for Research on Education, Diversity & Excellence, 2002. 1 vols.
