Frequently Asked Questions
My child recently started preschool and refuses to speak my native language to me. What can I do?
It’s very common for children to shift toward the majority language once they start preschool — especially if that’s the language spoken by teachers and peers. But don’t worry: this doesn’t mean your child is rejecting your language permanently.
If your goal is for your child to actively speak your native language (not just understand it), it’s important to stay consistent. Continue speaking to your child in your language, model rich and joyful communication, and gently but firmly expect them to respond in the same language. Over time, with patience and the right strategies, children often return to speaking the home language.
My partner and I each speak different native languages, and we live in the United States. Is it too much for our child to be raised speaking three languages?
Not at all — many children around the world grow up successfully learning three or more languages. What’s important to understand is that multilingual language development often looks different from monolingual development, and that’s perfectly normal.
The key to raising a trilingual child is ensuring your child receives consistent, meaningful exposure to each language. With a realistic plan and clear roles for each language at home, your child can develop strong skills in all three over time.
My child mixes languages — is that a problem?
No, it’s not a problem at all. Mixing languages — sometimes called “code-switching” — is a normal and healthy part of multilingual development. Children mix languages because they are using all the tools they have to communicate, especially when they are still learning vocabulary in each language.
As long as your child can eventually speak each language clearly with speakers of that language, occasional mixing is not a sign of confusion or poor development. In fact, it shows flexibility and growing language awareness.
What does family language consulting involve?
Family language consulting is a personalized process tailored to your family’s unique language background, goals, and daily realities. Together, we’ll develop a clear and realistic family language plan, meet one-on-one to address your specific questions and challenges, and set up practical tools and strategies to support language growth at home.
You’ll also receive guidance on how to stay consistent, build supportive habits, and track your child’s progress — all with expert insight and encouragement along the way.
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Is it ever too late to start?
No — it’s never too late to support your child’s connection to their heritage language. Whether your child is a toddler or a teenager, there are age-appropriate strategies to reintroduce or strengthen the home language. The key is consistency, connection, and realistic expectations. I’ll help you create a plan that fits your family’s stage and schedule.
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What if I’m not confident in my own language skills?
Many parents worry that their language isn’t “good enough” to pass on — but your efforts still matter. Even partial exposure to a heritage language can build strong emotional and cultural connections. I can help you make the most of the language you do know, and explore ways to strengthen it alongside your child.
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Still have questions? I’d love to hear from you.​
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