First language

What is a child’s first language?  What’s the difference between a first language and a dominant language?
A child’s first language usually refers to the language the child learned from birth (before the age of three) and hears most often in his/her environment. However, some children may have more than one first language. This is the case when children learn two languages at the same time, from birth. When a child learns more than one language, one of these languages may become dominant. A child’s dominant language is the language that the child uses more often and it’s the language in which the child knows more words, uses longer sentences and has fewer pauses.

Why should children learn their first language?
When children have a strong first language base, they learn a second language more easily. They also do better at school with reading and writing.

My child is starting daycare/school in English. Should I start speaking to him in English at home instead of using my first language?
No, keep speaking your first language with your child. Children will forget how to speak and understand their first language if they don’t use it at home.

How can I help my child learn his first language?
Children learn language  best from people who speak the language well and often. They learn to talk by listening and talking to parents, siblings, grandparents, friends and caregivers. So go ahead – speak your first language. Label many different objects, talk about what you are doing, talk about your feelings, tell stories and express your ideas. Use songs, rhymes and stories you have learned from your culture and family. During these language-based activities, children also learn about their culture and identity.

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