Question on bilingual language acquisition from non-native speaker

[Annick De Houwer]

Dear Kristin and info-childes,

I think Edy is mentioning very important points in her posting. The
emotional aspects of language use and the connection that a particular
language provides to a myriad of cultural experiences, which are also
shared with family members outside the family unit itself, are very
important. This becomes quite highlighted in a bilingual setting. Of
course, if you stay in Germany any children will soon learn German
through preschool etc. But suppose you move to the UK and had only
spoken English to your children....I know several families in similar
circumstances who first decided against a bilingual upbringing. Then
with changed life circumstances (moves to another country, partner
separation) they were very sorry. Trying to change the language you
use with your children is very difficult - children usually do not
accept this.
May I also introduce the point that there need not be a choice between
either English or German - you could use both! German for when you are
alone with your child and with other German speakers, English when
English speakers are present. There is no evidence that this is
somehow 'bad' for children (I discuss these and many other aspects of
children's bilingual language environments in my upcoming book - but
I'll advertise that separately in the weeks to come...).

Good luck, and happy holidays to all--

Annick

Annick De Houwer
Research Professor
University of Antwerp and Eunice Shriver Kennedy Institute for Child
Health ad Human Development


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