June 17, 2024
Children who speak a language other than Dutch at home often face discrimination and negative attitudes, both in schools and in the wider community. Misconceptions about heritage language education can harm a child's self-esteem and identity development.
At HLE Network, we believe in the power of heritage language education to enhance a child's well-being. In our short presentation at the Holland Expat Center South's "Living In Lounge - Health & Happiness" on June 22 at the Eindhoven Stadhuis, we will discuss "5 Benefits of Heritage Language Education" for your child's mental well-being.
Better performance in school: Learning and maintaining their home language can actually improve your child's skills in the school language. Research shows that children who are proficient in their heritage language perform better academically in their mainstream school language.
Love for reading: Encouraging your child to read in their home language makes reading more enjoyable and helps them develop strong literacy skills. This not only supports their academic growth but also opens up a world of stories and knowledge in multiple languages.
Boosts self-esteem and identity: Being fluent in their home language helps your child feel proud of their cultural background. This strong sense of identity boosts their self-esteem and confidence.
Successful integration: Learning and using their home language helps children maintain their cultural identity while integrating into the local society. It promotes a balanced, inclusive sense of belonging both at home and within the community.
More opportunities: Multilingualism is a valuable skill in today’s globalized world. Proficiency in multiple languages can provide your child with better job prospects and the ability to communicate effectively in culturally diverse environments.
By supporting your child's heritage language education, parents/caregivers are not only preserving an important part of their cultural heritage but also giving children tools that will benefit their academic, personal, and professional future.
Join us at the Living In Lounge to learn more about how heritage language education can positively impact your child's life. We look forward to seeing you there!
Curious about which heritage language education programs operate in the region? Check our directory.