In today’s globalised society, the importance of learning multiple languages is more apparent than ever. Language skills open doors to new cultures, foster empathy, and are increasingly valuable in the job market. However, while teachers and educational institutions play critical roles in fostering language learning, the involvement of parents is an equally important, yet often underutilised factor that can significantly influence a child’s choices and success in language acquisition.
Parents’ involvement can turn attitudes to language learning from a challenging task into an engaging, rewarding journey, benefiting not only the child but also the entire family. This post explores why parental involvement is essential, the ways parents can effectively support language learning, and the long-term benefits of these efforts.
The landscape of language learning today
Modern language classrooms are increasingly diverse, encompassing traditional languages such as French, Spanish, and German, as well as a growing number of non-traditional options like Mandarin, Arabic, and Latin. This diversity reflects a broader understanding of the importance of global connectivity and cultural exchange. Language learning isn’t just about memorising vocabulary or conjugating verbs; it’s about developing communication skills, cultural awareness, and an understanding of international contexts.
With this context in mind, students face the choice of whether to pursue a language at the GCSE level in Year 9 - a decision with lasting educational and professional implications. Research has shown that students who study a foreign language develop better critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and even improved memory. However, deciding to pursue a language for GCSE requires commitment, perseverance, and a solid support network - something that parents can significantly influence.
Parental involvement: The foundation of language learning success
Parental involvement is widely recognised as a key factor in a student’s academic success, yet in language learning, it often plays a uniquely influential role. When parents view languages as a valuable skill to have and actively engage with their child’s language education, they do more than provide motivation, they also help create an environment that values multicultural perspectives, global awareness, and curiosity about the world.
Language acquisition begins long before a learner sets foot in a classroom. From infancy, parents play a pivotal role in laying the groundwork for linguistic development through verbal interactions, exposure to diverse languages, and cultural immersion. Studies have shown that children raised in multilingual environments exhibit greater cognitive flexibility, problem-solving skills, and cultural awareness from an early age.
In the modern language classroom, parents serve as the primary advocates and facilitators of their children's language learning journey. By instilling a positive attitude towards language acquisition and fostering a supportive learning environment at home, parents lay the foundation for success in the classroom and beyond. However, we recognise that some of our learners may lack this type of supportive network and environment at home, presenting a unique challenge that we often need to address and work to overcome within our classrooms and school settings.
Year 9 Choices: The power of parental guidance in GCSE choices
One of the most pivotal points for students studying a language in the UK is the Year 9 GCSE subject choices, where they decide whether to pursue a language at the GCSE level. This decision can have far-reaching consequences, impacting university admission prospects, career opportunities, and even future travel and social experiences. Parental involvement during this decision-making process is invaluable, as students may lack the long-term perspective to fully understand the benefits of pursuing a language qualification.
1. Providing a broader perspective on language benefits
For students, the advantages of taking a language may not always be immediately clear, especially if they find the subject challenging. Here, parents alongside us - teachers can provide valuable insights by discussing how language skills can enhance future career opportunities, contribute to cognitive development, and foster cultural understanding. Reminding students that many universities view a language GCSE as an asset can further encourage them to continue their studies.
2. Helping students align language learning with personal goals
Some students may aspire to careers in fields where language skills are highly valued, such as international business, diplomacy, tourism, or healthcare. In these cases, parents as well as other professionals or alumni who continued, utilised and benefitted from studying languages further can help students see how language skills align with their career aspirations, highlighting the real-world applications of language learning and making the subject more relevant. Inviting these professionals to speak at assemblies can prove especially powerful.
3. Collaborating with teachers for an informed decisions
Parents can also work closely with language teachers to understand their child’s strengths and areas for improvement in the subject. Teachers can provide insight into how the student is progressing, their potential for success at the GCSE level, and any additional support that might be beneficial. By maintaining open communication with teachers, parents gain a well-rounded perspective on their child’s readiness for the challenge.
Supporting classroom learning at home
Effective language learning extends far beyond the confines of the classroom walls. Parents have the unique opportunity to reinforce and complement classroom teaching through a variety of home practices such as encouraging students to read articles / books, watch movies, and listen to music in the target language which not only reinforces vocabulary and grammar concepts but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the culture and heritage associated with the language. Additionally, parents together with teachers can leverage technology to access online resources, language-learning apps, and virtual language exchange platforms to supplement classroom teaching and provide additional practice opportunities.
Benefits of parental involvement in language learning
Enhanced motivation: When parents express interest and enthusiasm for their child's language learning endeavours, it reinforces the importance of learning new language skills. Positive reinforcement and encouragement from parents can boost a student's motivation and self-confidence, leading to greater engagement in the classroom.
Increased practice opportunities: Language learning is not limited to the classroom; students need ample opportunities to practise and reinforce their skills outside of school hours. Parents can provide valuable support by creating a language-rich environment at home, incorporating activities such as reading books, watching series or films, or if they have a knowledge of the language themselves, engaging in conversations in the target language.
Cultural enrichment: Learning a new language goes hand in hand with exploring the culture and traditions associated with it. Parents can expose their children to authentic cultural experiences, such as celebrating festivals, trying traditional cuisine, or when possible, interacting with native speakers. This cultural immersion deepens the child's understanding of the language and fosters a sense of cultural appreciation and empathy.
Improved academic performance: Research has consistently shown a positive correlation between parental involvement and academic achievement. When parents actively participate in their child's language learning journey, it can lead to improved language skills, higher grades, and overall academic success.
Sadly, not all of our learners have access to such supportive home environments, and not all parents have the resources to provide the opportunities mentioned above. In these cases, teachers and other professionals can step in as inspirational role models and sources of support on their journey. For parents who may be uncertain about the value of language learning in their child’s life, here are some strategies we can use to build positive relationships and encourage their support:
Strategies for promoting parental involvement in the language classroom
Open communication channels: Establish clear lines of communication with parents from the outset, emphasising the importance of their involvement in their child's language learning. Utilise platforms such as email, newsletters, or parent-teacher evenings to keep parents informed about classroom activities, progress updates, and ways they can support their child's learning at home.
Provide resources and guidance: Offer parents guidance on how they can support their child's language learning - many schools now provide workshops for parents how to support their child with language learning / revision techniques etc. Create resource kits or online portals with suggestions for language-learning activities, recommended books or websites, and tips for practising language skills in everyday contexts.
Encourage participation in cultural events: Organise cultural events or language evening that involve parents and provide opportunities for them to actively engage with their child's learning. In my school, we organise a Community Day. This could include cultural festivals, language immersion days, or parent-child language clubs where families can come together to celebrate diversity and language proficiency.
Offer parent education workshops: Host workshops or information sessions for parents to learn more about the benefits of bilingualism, effective language learning strategies, and ways to support their child's language development at home. Invite guest speakers, language experts, or experienced teachers to share insights and practical tips with parents.
Celebrate diversity: Create a welcoming and inclusive environment that celebrates the diversity of languages and cultures represented within the school community, these could be simple things such as multilingual displays around the school. Encourage parents to share their own language and cultural heritage with students through storytelling, music, dance, or cooking.
Seek feedback and collaboration: Actively seek feedback from parents about their experiences with their child's language learning journey and solicit ideas for how the school can further support their involvement. Collaborate with parents as partners in the educational process, valuing their insights and contributions to enhancing the language learning experience for all students.
Effective communication and collaboration between parents and teachers are essential for supporting language learning and academic success. Parents should maintain open lines of communication with language teachers to stay informed about curriculum objectives, instructional strategies, and their child's progress in the target language.
Attending parent-teacher evenings, participating in school events, and volunteering in the classroom, especially in primary education, are excellent ways for parents to actively engage with their child's language education and demonstrate their commitment to their academic success. Additionally, parents can provide valuable insights into their child's learning preferences, strengths, and areas for growth, enabling teachers to tailor instruction to meet individual needs effectively.
Conclusion
In an interconnected world, language learning has never been more important, and the role of parents in fostering linguistic skills cannot be overstated. Through encouragement, practical support, and informed guidance, parents empower their children to embrace the challenges of language learning and enjoy the personal and professional rewards it offers. Whether a parent is helping with vocabulary flashcards, learning alongside their child, or providing perspective on Year 9 choices, their involvement serves as a cornerstone in the student’s language learning journey.
The impact of this support extends beyond school, helping young people develop into empathetic, globally aware citizens ready to navigate a multicultural world.
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