The summer is here and, while children are obliviously excited to take the plunge in what the long break has to offer, parents and educators are often torn between holiday fun and fear of its consequences on the learning progress. The summer learning loss is a widely recognised phenomenon that affects students across various school settings, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Unfortunately, during this period many students experience a decline in their knowledge and skills. But there is an additional threat lurking around – summer language loss. It poses a significant challenge for children who are being schooled in a language different from their home or community language(s) and propels these children into a whole different dimension of struggle. As we embark on holiday, visit relatives and immerse ourselves in home language(s) or other languages, the school language tends to take a backseat. But why, you might wonder? It’s simple: when language skills suffer, it directly impacts the ability to grasp and comprehend the content being taught, ultimately hindering their overall academic achievement. Addressing this hidden threat becomes crucial to support these children and mitigate the negative consequences of summer language loss.
That is why it is vital to shift the focus and pay some attention to the school language during the break. Encouraging your child to engage in activities that involve listening, reading and speaking in that language can help combat the negative impact of summer language loss and, luckily, there is plenty you can do. Below are 7 easy strategies you can consider to address the summer language loss in the school language of your multilingual child. And the best part is – you don’t even have to be fluent to support your child!
- Read books.
Now, before you start compiling a reading list, a word of caution – don’t present your child with a curated list of 20 books they need to read over the break. You know, like we used to get in school (at least I did). Go easy on your child and keep in mind that some reading in the target language is better than no reading. Encourage them to choose the books they fancy reading and make sure that (some of them) match their reading level. Comic books, for example, are always a great idea as are magazines on topics your child might like. If your child enjoys surprises, you can add an element of excitement by stashing away a couple of magazines and presenting them one by one throughout the summer. That always works like a charm with my eight-year-old son – it keeps the anticipation alive and adds an extra layer of joy.
Make sure to also set aside some regular reading time, for instance after lunch, and create a cosy reading environment to make it an enjoyable experience.
2. Practise writing.
In addition to reading, encourage your child to write in the school language. Not just for the sake of writing, but with a purpose, such as postcards or emails to their friends. You can also encourage them to journal about their experiences and the places they visit during the summer. It will not only help with maintaining and improving their writing skills but will also serve as a personal keepsake of all their adventures. An added bonus – they will remember everything they’ve experienced and can share with their classmates once they are back in school. Furthermore, you can provide writing prompts, for example, based on their experiences, to stimulate creativity and help them practice different writing styles.
3. Take advantage of screen time opportunities.
Take advantage of the wide array of streaming services available. Encourage your child to watch (some of) their favourite programmes, TV shows, films or cartoons in the school language. You can switch the audio to the school language and/or use subtitles to aid comprehension. Discussing the content afterwards will further enhance comprehension.
Additionally, exposing them to original films and TV shows in the school language, will introduce more authentic language usage, accents and cultural references. Look for educational content, documentaries or age-appropriate shows that align with your child’s interests.
4. Use technology and online resources.
Utilise language-learning apps, websites or online courses specifically designed for children in the school language. Such resources often offer interactive exercises, lessons and games that will help maintain and enhance your child’s language skills. Exploring relevant YouTube channels can be another powerful resource. Similarly, listening to music and / or (online) radio programmes can provide additional exposure and further develop their listening and comprehension skills. These tools can be a great addition to your summer language toolbox.
5. Connect with the community.
When you are not travelling, seek out local cultural events, workshops, festivals or other activities in the school language that might be interesting for your child. These events can offer valuable opportunities to practise and engage with fluent speakers. In addition, prioritise seeking opportunities for language input and conversations, such as arranging playdates with other children who speak the school language. These interactions will help your child maintain their language skills, practise speaking and listening, ensuring that they don’t lose the momentum they have built during the school year.
6. Enrol in language classes or (day) camps.
Look for summer programs in the school language, such as fun language classes, (day) camps, community centre activities or other enrichment programmes. They often include interactive games and engaging activities that offer opportunities for language practice and learning, while keeping the element of fun alive. It can be a fantastic way to ensure your child stays engaged with the language and enjoys themselves at the same time.
7. Spend some “target language” time at home.
Another valuable strategy would be to consciously incorporate the school language into your daily life at home. It can be tailored to your specific circumstances and it serves as a very useful exercise for both parents and children by reinforcing language skills. It will also empower your child to take an active role in helping you with the language. Here are a few ideas to implement: label objects around the house, cook and follow some (traditional) recipes using that language or even practise together during family outings or holiday by turning the school language into your secret language when you don’t want the people around you to know what you’re discussing. These activities not only make language learning immersive and practical but also create a sense of excitement and connection with the school language within the family dynamic.
It might sound like a lot, but let me tell you – making efforts to conquer the summer language loss will prove to be a super rewarding activity. By engaging in language practice during the break, your child can maintain their language proficiency, indirectly ensuring they stay academically on track. Actively practising the language not only helps maintain and improve fluency, but also fosters confidence. Having said that, it is important to try and make the language experience fun, enjoyable and relatable for your child, ensuring their engagement and motivation.
Which one(s) are you planning on implementing? We’d love to learn about your experiences!
Image by Limor Zellermayer on unsplash.com
