For bilingual children, here are 10 Tips for helping these internationally adopted children retain their first language.

1) “Let them still speak it.” This was the number one suggestion given by my 5 internationally born teenagers. Some feel that an English language immersion (having the child speak only English and speak none of their native language for a time) is the most effective way for a child to learn English. I’m sure this approach has merit. However, my kids feel that being allowed to use their language all along shows acceptance of them (including their language) and allows them to keep and practice both languages at the same time.

2) Let them read books. Have books in their first language, even if they are not yet old enough to read them. Have books from their country/culture that are translated into English. Have them read both styles often. If the child is a pre-reader, he can still “read” both styles of the books by flipping through, looking at any pictures, looking at the letters and words.

3) Read to them; let them correct you. This has been a great method for us. I read the books to the children – and they correct my pronunciation or help me with vocabulary. Even my 6yr old Russian-born daughter enjoyed this. Younger children might also delight in being able to “correct” mom or dad.

4) Parents learn. There is little that shows more acceptance of the child retaining their first language than new parents or family learning their language. This can be done before the adoption and travel. The process can be an ongoing, lifetime learning as well.

5) Find others for him to speak with. Being able to use the language is very important in being able to keep it. Sometimes my girls will express a worry that they are losing more and more of their first language. When they have the opportunity to speak with someone, they are surprised at how quickly it comes back for them.

6) Encourage and accept. It sounds simple, but is likely THE most important way to support your child retaining his first language along with English. Show him that you are happy for opportunities to allow him to do this!

7) Videos. Videos in the first language, even if they might be more of the first language than the child can fully grasp, are a fun way to bring the language into the home.

8) Music. Children’s and “regular” (i.e. pop) style music in the native language are fantastic ways to bring the language and culture into your everyday life.

9) Computer programs. Many computer programs are available to teach other languages to both children and adults. Having a child use such a program is a good way to help him keep up his first language.

10) Subscribe to periodicals – magazines, newspapers. For younger children, regularly order children’s items (perhaps through channels such as ebay) to arrive in the mail – surprises in their native language.

Other blogs addressing an adopted child's first language:
International Mother Languages Day
"Tongue Tied"