What if my child speaks multiple languages?
From the day infants are born, they have the ability to learn two languages. As toddlers, they can easily switch back and forth between two languages in or out of context (Gonzalez-Mena & Eyer, 2007). If you speak a language other than English, it is encouraged that you continue to speak with your child in your home language (Bardige & Segal, 2000).
From the day infants are born, they have the ability to learn two languages. As toddlers, they can easily switch back and forth between two languages in or out of context (Gonzalez-Mena & Eyer, 2007). If you speak a language other than English, it is encouraged that you continue to speak with your child in your home language (Bardige & Segal, 2000). Children who are bilingual have "different sets of literacy tools and practices" because they are placed in different sociocultural and linguistic environments (e.g., home, child care, community; Diaz & Harvey, 2002). Because these children experience different odes, it helps "children develop greater awareness of the representation nature of symbols" (Rosenkoetter & Knapp, 2006).
What if English is not my child's first language?
If your child will be required to learn English for an English immersion program, it is recommended that they have at least 2 years of English practice so they can become accustomed to English sound patterns and vocabulary (Bardige & Segal, 2000). English language learners can be exposed to and practice speaking English by watching TV shows or listening to sing-a-long songs in English. Children who speak another language are able to develop skills that will transfer to English (Tabors & Snow, 2000).
An alternative to English immersion is bilingual education. Bilingual education is teaching non-English speaking children in both their native language and in English.
How can children have multiple literacies?
If children are exposed to visual, audio, and digital media, they have experienced other types of literacies (New London Group, 1996). This means that literacy doesn't only include oral language and traditional print. Literacy "differs according to culture and context and may include oral stories, songs, music, dances, paintings, and the popular culture of television shows, cartoons, videos games, computer icons, and movies" (Makin & Diaz, 2002).
