In multiracial and cosmopolitan Singapore, learning one’s mother tongue language — be it Chinese, Malay, Tamil or others — is important for various reasons.
1. Cultural Identity
It helps children form their cultural identity, as the mother tongue language is often tied to a child’s cultural heritage, traditions and family values. Learning the language helps your child connect with their cultural identity, fostering a sense of belonging and pride in their cultural background.
2. Family Bonds
It also strengthens family bonds and enables effective communication with grandparents, extended family members, and relatives who might not be proficient in English.
3. Communication Skills
Proficiency in the mother tongue language supports the development of strong communication skills in a child. Children who are fluent in their mother tongue language often have better vocabulary, grammar, and verbal communication abilities, which can benefit them in academic and social contexts.
4. Cognitive Skills
Learning multiple languages enhances cognitive skills such as problem-solving, multitasking, and memory.
Now that you know why learning your mother tongue language is important for your child, how do you help your child learn (and master) it? Here are some ways:
1. Start Early
Children are more receptive to learning languages in their early years, and exposure during this period can significantly enhance language acquisition.
2. Speak the Language
You can also speak the language at home. Communicate with your child in your mother tongue language as much as possible. If you are not fluent in the language yourself, leave your children in the care of family members who are, as they will be able to teach basic vocabulary to them. Consistent exposure to the language is key to fluency.
3. Practise Storytelling
Read stories, folktales, and picture books with your child in your mother tongue language. Storytelling captures a child’s imagination and enhances vocabulary and comprehension skills. What’s more, it is a great way to bond with your child and spend quality time with them.
4. Use Educational Apps
There are also many educational apps and games designed to teach languages. Find apps that focus on your mother tongue language and offer interactive and fun learning experiences for your child.
5. Listen to Music
Children love music, so you can listen to music, songs, and rhymes in your mother tongue language. Music teaches children language rhythm and pronunciation. Singing along to songs can be a fun and effective way to learn new words and phrases.
If your child’s mother tongue language is Chinese, New Life’s three childcare centres offer a language programme to help your child learn and love their mother tongue.
