For many families in the United States, maintaining a child’s connection to their heritage language can feel like an uphill battle. Schools primarily teach in English, and the dominant culture ofen overshadows the richness of othre languages and traditions. One powerful way to keep that connection alive is through reading. But how do you encourage a child to pick up a book in a language that might feel less familiar or relevant to their daily life? It’s a challenge familiar to many parents, including Dr.Tan Ee Ling, who runs the Chinese online bookstore Shiawase Books.

“Do your children roll their eyes when you mention Chinese books? I have two such kids,” she admits, referring to her daughters, ages 10 and 12. But Dr. Tan remains optimistic. “Whenever kids and adults tell me thay don’t read in their mother tongue language, I let them know that it’s okay. They just haven’t found a story that speaks to them.” this sentiment resonates deeply with educators and language advocates across the U.S.

Finding the right book is key, but so is creating a supportive and engaging environment. Here are some strategies, inspired by prosperous booksellers and educators, to help your child develop a genuine love for reading in their heritage language.

Discovering Your Child’s Literary Interests

Just like finding the right book in English, the “right” book in another language is one that aligns with your child’s individual tastes and reading level.Sung Yuen Ling, manager at Maha Yu Yi, a long-standing Chinese bookstore with both online (yuyi.com.sg) and physical locations, emphasizes this point. With a vast collection catering to various age groups and interests, Maha Yu Yi offers a diverse range of titles, from heartwarming stories to biographies and humorous tales.

Sung notes that even quirky topics can pique a child’s interest: “These include a book about different types of toilets, an adventure in which a character descends 100 floors into a swamp encountering strange creatures, and a humorous story about eight greedy cats causing mischief.” The key is to tap into what already excites them.

For older children who might resist reading in their heritage language, Sung suggests bridging the gap with familiar characters and stories: “If they love Dog Man, Minecraft, Super Wings, Spiderman, Harry Potter, Totoro or Roald Dahl books, parents can introduce them to the Chinese versions.” Graphic novels, comics, and books with captivating illustrations can also be effective gateways. Consider the wildly popular manga series like “Attack on Titan” or “My hero Academia,” which have been translated into numerous languages and could serve as an entry point for young readers.
Local Examples:

For example, consider this video about the importance of bilingualism, a resource for parents looking to encourage language learning in their children, helping them to ignite the love through reading

Creating a Language-Rich Environment at Home

Beyond specific books, immersing your child in a language-rich environment is crucial. Mr. Syed Ali Semait, a director at Pustaka Nasional, which has been publishing Malay literary and religious books as 1963, emphasizes the importance of consistent exposure to the mother tongue at home. Pustaka Nasional also collaborates with Singaporean authors to publish children’s books, often with grants from organizations like the National Arts council and the Lee Kuan Yew Fund for Bilingualism.

“The consistent exposure helps build their confidence and expand their vocabulary.Take the time to explain the meaning of unfamiliar words,” he advises. This approach aligns with research showing that children learn languages best when they are used in meaningful contexts.

Madam Jiang Meiru,founder of the Chinese online bookstore Flip For Joy,echoes this sentiment. “it’s definitely worth it,” she says, advocating for parents to set aside time to read with their children, even with busy schedules. “Not only is it a great way to bond with them, but your children will also develop positive associations with reading, which will encourage them to become avid readers.”

Real-World Example:

The Garcia family in Los Angeles makes it a point to read Spanish books together every night before bed. They also listen to Spanish music and watch Spanish-language cartoons on the weekends. Consequently, their children are not only fluent in Spanish but also have a deep gratitude for their cultural heritage.

Practical Tips for creating a Language-Rich Environment:

• Designate a specific time each day for reading in the heritage language.
• Label household items with their names in the heritage language.
• Watch movies and TV shows in the heritage language with subtitles.
• Cook conventional dishes together and discuss the recipes in the heritage language.
• Celebrate cultural holidays and traditions.

The Power of Local Stories and Role Models

Books by authors and illustrators from your heritage culture,especially those featuring familiar settings,places,and characters,can be incredibly powerful. Ms. Lydia Cheriyan, a business advancement director at Mini Monsters, a publisher of English-Malay
children’s books, believes that these stories allow children to connect with their heritage on a personal level.

“For instance, illustrations of HDB blocks will allow your kids to identify with the story and find it relatable. Stories set in iconic attractions, such as Gardens by the Bay, may spark their interest to read and motivate them to visit the places,” she
explains. For U.S. families, this could mean seeking out books that feature familiar landmarks, cultural events, or ancient figures from their heritage.

One example is Mini Monsters’ book,”Juara,” a biographical picture book about Singaporean squash player Zainal Abidin. Cheriyan notes that this type of story, “is a good way to attract young readers who may be reluctant to read in Malay.”

recent Developments:

Several U.S.publishers are now focusing on creating bilingual children’s books that feature diverse characters and stories. These books often incorporate elements of different cultures and languages, making them more accessible and engaging for young
readers.

Addressing Potential Challenges and Counterarguments

It’s notable to acknowledge that not all children will embrace reading in their heritage language immediately. Some may view it as a chore or feel self-conscious about their language skills. Parents may also face challenges in finding resources or
connecting with other families who share their language and culture.

One common counterargument is that focusing on English proficiency is more important for success in the U.S.While English is undoubtedly essential, research shows that bilingualism offers numerous cognitive, social, and economic benefits. Children who
are fluent in multiple languages tend to have better problem-solving skills,enhanced creativity,and a greater understanding of different cultures.

A Framework for Success:

Conclusion

Igniting a love for reading in your child’s heritage language is a journey that requires patience, creativity, and a genuine commitment to preserving your cultural heritage. By understanding your child’s interests, creating a language-rich environment, and
celebrating local stories and role models, you can help them develop a lifelong appreciation for their native tongue and the rich traditions it represents.