Curriculum Corner

The Importance of Learning of a Home Language

Does your family speak a language other than English? Did you know, that speaking to your child fluently in your first language actually helps their understanding of English language? Children who speak their home language fluently gain powerful benefits that support their learning in English and overall brain development. When children grow up using their first language confidently, they build strong language foundations—like understanding grammar, sentence structure, and vocabulary—that transfer to learning a second language like English. This is because the brain doesn’t start from scratch with each language; instead, it builds on what it already knows. Research shows that bilingual children often develop better memory, problem-solving skills, and the ability to switch between tasks more easily.

In school, children who are strong in their home language tend to do better in English reading and writing over time. They can understand complex ideas more easily and express themselves clearly. Keeping the home language alive also strengthens family bonds and cultural identity, which boosts confidence and emotional well-being—both important for success in school. So, encouraging children to speak, read, and write in their home language isn’t just about preserving culture—it’s a smart way to support their full academic and personal growth.

Did you know at St Helena’s we are so lucky to have over 35 languages other than English spoken in our families’ home?