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Many parents have the goal of their child being able to learn and communicate in the local language. In addition, a number of our families are cross-cultural, and parents may have different heritage languages. The resources on this page will help you to navigate decision-making as you consider your goals and options.
Some important tips to keep in mind in regards to language learning are:
Children should learn to read in their mother tongue before learning to read in a second language.
It takes 5-7 years to become academically proficient in a second language. So they need to enroll in school in the target language for high school and university by grade 4 at the latest.
Stress interferes with any kind of learning. Make sure that language learning environments and experiences are fun and play-based.
What type of proficiency do you want your child to achieve - survival, social, or academic? When considering your language learning goals for your children, learn about the difference between BICS, CALP, CUP and CALS!
Language Learning in Ministry: Preparing for Cross-Cultural Language Acquisition by Jan Edwards Dormer
2021
Language Learning in Ministry provides practical guidance for individuals and families preparing to learn a new language while serving in another cultural context. The book addresses common misconceptions about language acquisition and examines both formal and informal approaches, including language schools, programs, and learning methodologies. It considers language learning from a ministry perspective and explores related issues such as children’s language development, schooling, and opportunities for mission kids to learn the local language. The book also presents decision-making tools, language proficiency scales, online resources, and a task-based curriculum adaptable to different languages. It aims to help readers develop effective language-learning strategies that support ministry and family needs.
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