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Ages 0-2: Parentese
With young children, especially those who haven’t yet started talking, it is important that we communicate with more than just our words. The pitch and tone of our voice, the speed of our speaking, our facial expressions, the movement of our mouth, all contribute to the communication we have with our children. With bilingual children, in particular, it is essential that they have as many opportunities as possible to engage in captivating communication with both parents (and others) who speak the target languages. What are the best ways to get your child engaged in communication with you when they aren’t yet speaking or just learning to speak? Have you heard of “parentese”? This communication method is more than simply a way of speaking with your child. “Parentese” is about establishing a stronger relationship with your child. Some experts claim it is one of the most important steps you can take to establish strong communication bonds with your child (http://www.pbs.org). To practice “parentese”, speak in sing-song sentences with exaggerated facial expressions (such as widening the eyes), bringing in the face close to your baby’s face and elongating vowels and consonants. A parent not used to practicing “parentese” will probably feel silly. To other parents, it will come naturally to speak with their child in such a way. Why is “parentese” so important with bilingual children? Even though your child may not be able to speak, or is just learning to speak, your child’s brain is developing language patterns right now. By practicing “Parentese”, you will be engaging your child in the kind of communication that will have long-term benefits. As well all know, even as adults, when we are engaged in a conversation, it has far more impact on us than if we are just hearing the words but not really involved. Using methods such as “parentese” will also help you establish the language bonds necessary to continue speaking with your child in your language.
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