In Japan, The Japan Times has been exploring how foreign parents pass on their native language to their children. The newspaper highlights that many parents are focusing on reading, cultural exchanges, and making language learning enjoyable, rather than using force or strict methods. It also reports that the number of foreign residents in Japan has surpassed 4 million, reflecting the growing diversity of the country. Experts interviewed agree that pushing children too hard, enrolling them in expensive international schools, or being overly rigid is not effective in language transmission. Instead, creating opportunities for children to speak the language through play and friendships is more impactful.
Janice Nakamura, a polyglot and linguistics professor at Kanagawa University, advises parents to be patient and not worry about potential delays in language development. She suggests joining groups of families who speak the language they want to pass on, especially if they cannot maintain contact with relatives in their home country. Midori Inagaki, an associate professor at Juntendo University and a columnist for The Japan Times, emphasizes the importance of starting early but without excessive pressure. She argues that children do not learn effectively when forced, and that language transmission is not just about vocabulary and grammar, but also about culture and ways of thinking.
The importance of multilingualism is also supported by Psychology Today, an American magazine that highlights the cognitive, economic, social, and cultural benefits of knowing multiple languages. The magazine notes that being multilingual improves skills such as observation, multitasking, problem-solving, and memory, and is associated with better neurological health and higher income. According to Psychology Today, speaking multiple languages is the norm in many parts of the world, and it would be unreasonable to discourage children from learning other languages or to avoid passing on their native language.
Courrier Expat, a French publication launched in 2016, provides information for French expatriates and those considering living abroad. It offers news and insights on the professional and personal aspects of expatriation, organized into sections such as business, education, and health. The magazine also offers additional services, including access to job listings, expert advice, and community forums for its readers. Through its Courrier Expat Club, readers can engage more deeply with the expatriate community and access a range of resources and support.
Strategies for Passing on Language to Children in Japan and Global Insights on Bilingualism
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