As this is a foreign language learning blog, and not a parenting blog, my reasons will focus on learning languages, and what you can say to family members from that lens.
Remember, at the end of the day you are the parent, you make decisions for your children, and you are the one who has to live with them.
Family complaining about your bilingual house?
Have you ever had grandma complain that she doesn’t understand what your child is saying because they speak two languages?
Or auntie doesn’t like that she can’t understand what you’re saying.
First, I would check the situation.
Is your child intentionally using a second language to talk about your family member in front of them?
Is your child intentionally using a second language to be rude to another family member?
- If yes, then, the problem is not the second language but the behavior, and to address that accordingly and appropriately.
If your child is not being intentionally rude with their knowledge of two languages, I would then address the family member with some of these points.
- It’s important for our children to know two languages because of our family culture.
- It’s important for our children to know two languages because there’s only benefits (See my post on those here!)
- Higher test scores
- More flexible thinking
- More job opportunities and higher paying opportunities
- Slower cognitive decline with aging
- We speak two languages at home, because (insert your reason here).
Other perspectives to consider:
The family member complaining might feel left out if they don’t understand or hurt because they don’t speak two languages.
The unsupportive family member might be jealous that they only speak one. Learning a new language isn’t limited by age! I’ve talked about that here!
Whatever the comments or questions family or friends have, remember they aren’t on this language journey with you.
You have decided that you and your family are learning new languages and cultures. You want to pursue knowledge and develop language skills that will benefit you and your children for life.
What is your reason for learning another language?
