The importance of native language development

Research from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) highlights the critical role of native language development in children. The term 'native language' - or mother tongue - refers to the first language a child learns at home, usually from their parents. This language forms the basis for cognitive development, cultural identity and academic achievement.

According to ASHA, proficiency in the mother tongue enhances cognitive flexibility, academic success and social-emotional skills. Children who develop strong skills in their native language are better at learning additional languages and perform well in academic settings, such as classrooms, academic gatherings and so on.

The association also pointed out that a strong foundation in the mother tongue is crucial for cognitive development, enabling children to think abstractly and understand complex concepts.

“Bilingualism means culture. Whether it is English with Afrikaans or Oshiwambo with German, it is good for children based on where they go to school and if they fit in the nuance of the school’s cultural framework,” Albert Arries, a teacher who grew up bilingual, said.

“The borders of your language are the borders of your world, thus either making you feel included or excluded,” added Sarah Situde, a teacher who grew up bilingual and later became trilingual by speaking German, Afrikaans and English.

She said it also makes communication better in a classroom with so many different cultures and backgrounds, and broadens understanding. Children who are fluent in their mother tongue can express their emotions and interact more effectively with peers and adults, Arries said.

This fluency fosters a sense of identity and belonging, which is essential for emotional well-being and social integration, he further explained.



The role of speech therapists

Early intervention by speech therapists is crucial for children with speech and language disorders. Chanel Abrahams, whose child has autism and is non-verbal, said that using a speech therapist has greatly improved her ability to communicate with her son using pictures and demonstrations.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) underscores the importance of identifying and addressing these issues early to mitigate potential long-term impacts on learning and communication. Children who receive early intervention are more likely to develop effective communication skills, which are vital for academic success and social interactions.

The AAP emphasised a collaborative approach, involving speech therapists, parents and educators, to ensure a comprehensive support system for children's language development.

This teamwork fosters continuous language growth at home and in educational settings. Speech therapists provide specialised strategies and exercises that parents and educators can implement, ensuring consistent reinforcement of language skills across different contexts.



The Montessori approach to language learning

The American Montessori Society (AMS) advocates for the Montessori method, a child-centered educational approach effective in fostering language development. AMS highlights that Montessori education uses purposeful materials and activities designed to promote language acquisition and communication skills. These activities are tailored to meet the individual needs of each child, allowing them to develop language skills at their own pace in a supportive environment.

Montessori classrooms encourage exploration and independent learning, Shandy Cole added.

“This also provides better articulation for the child to understand things better, be it an exam or a social setting as a classroom or examinations, tests or daily interactions with their peers and friends who have different ethnicities, backgrounds and environments," Arries said.

Language development is integrated into all areas of the curriculum, with activities that promote vocabulary building, reading and writing skills. The use of tactile and visual materials helps children make connections between spoken and written language, enhancing overall language proficiency.

Montessori education is particularly effective because it is tailored to the needs of each child. Teachers observe children closely to understand their interests and developmental stage, which allows them to present activities that are both engaging and appropriately challenging, the AMS said. This individualised approach helps children develop language skills that are deeply rooted in their personal experiences and learning styles.



Supporting mother tongue development in children with learning disabilities

Children with learning disabilities, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism, face unique challenges in language development. However, with tailored strategies and interventions, these children can achieve significant progress in their mother tongue skills by actively engaging with others and the help of adults who can assist where needed.

For children with ADHD, language development strategies often include structured environments and multisensory learning activities. These methods help maintain attention and engagement. Speech therapists develop individualised plans that address each child's specific needs, using techniques like visual aids, repetition and interactive activities to reinforce language skills.

Children with autism benefit from structured and consistent routines that support language development. Speech therapists and educators use various approaches, such as picture exchange communication systems, augmentative and alternative communication devices and social stories to facilitate language learning.

These tools help children with autism communicate more effectively and develop their mother tongue skills in a way that aligns with their learning styles, the ASHA said.