Frequently Asked Questions

Question: My child recently started preschool and refuses to speak my native language to me. What can I do?

Answer: It is common for children to stop addressing the minority-language parent in that language once the child starts preschool. No need to worry. If your goal is for your child to be able to speak – not merely understand – your language, you need to continue to speak in your native language and expect your child to speak it back to you. 

 

Question: My husband's native language is Spanish, my native language is French, and we live in the United States. Is it too much for our child to be raised speaking three languages?

Answer: No, it is not too much. However, be aware that the language development of multilingual children is different from that of monolingual children. One important factor is to make sure that your child has enough exposure to each of the languages.

 

Question: My child mixes languages; is that a problem?

Answer: No, mixing languages is typical of multilingual children. As long as they can communicate with monolingual speakers of each of the languages, mixing is not a sign of poor language development.

 

Question: What does family language consulting involve?

Answer: Individual consulting is always tailored to the specific family’s language profile, needs, and goals. With clients, we would develop a family language plan, conduct one-on-one meetings, establish accountability systems, and provide tools for language success.