Valuing home languages at school

A language learned in childhood at home is called home language, also referred to as mother tongue, first language or native language. Home language plays a significant role in learning and acquiring a second language. English should not replace the home language; it should develop alongside it.  

There are many reasons to maintain the home language as children learn to communicate best with their close family members and friends. Their home language is important for strong bonding, trust, affection and security.  

Home language is important for personal, social and cultural identity and contributes to the development of personal values and a positive view of their place in society. 

It is important to keep their home language active for developing their knowledge, skills and understanding. It teaches them how language works. Learners learning one language at home and another in their schools need to use their home language as much as possible. Parents should be encouraged to speak their home language. This builds a firm foundation for the second language acquisition. Without this foundation, both first and second languages can be delayed or disrupted.