Modern times bring new circumstances, situations and environments in which our children grow up. Increasingly, these are bilingual and multilingual settings and families. The cultural landscape is changing, and children are exposed to multiple influences. However, this does not have to be negative. On the contrary, it can support the development of individuals who are ready to embrace differences and diversity, in the spirit of multiculturalism and the modern global citizen, those who value and actively create true values.

Is that not, ultimately, the goal of both upbringing and education

Challenges And Benefits Of Growing Up In A Multilingual Environment

Growing up in a bilingual or multilingual family can be very stressful for a child. Faced with different influences, a child may feel confused, embarrassed or insecure when using one of the family languages. What is very important is to establish a consistent speaking routine, clearly defining which language is used with each family member, without deviation. For example, if the mother speaks Bosnian, the child should speak Bosnian with her, and if the father speaks German, communication with him should be in German. The language of the environment should be used in school or preschool settings, among peers who share that language.

Numerous studies show that multilingualism encourages cognitive development. In early childhood, the brain forms many synapses, which enables easier learning and memory retention. What is especially important is that through communication with specific people, a child begins to think in that language. This activates various brain processes, allowing the child to recognize speech patterns, classify information, connect it to similar situations, select responses, verbalize and communicate messages, and develop problem-solving skills. Children often have a higher intelligence quotient, think faster, concentrate more easily and even solve mathematical tasks more effectively.

How Language Exposure Affects Child Development And Memory

The British Telegraph highlights that children from environments where more than one language is spoken achieve better results on standardized tests compared to those from monolingual environments. Multilingual children also tend to develop stronger memory and multitasking skills, and there is a reduced likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease later in life.

Exposure to a language must be sufficient for it to become functional. Music is one way to naturally and spontaneously enrich vocabulary while also developing ease in communication.

In addition to music, reading stories, poems and other literature in a given language is essential.

Finally, there are courses such as Tako Lako, where your child learns the norms of the Bosnian language, expands vocabulary and develops communication patterns in a relaxed, fun and creative way. All of this is delivered through a modern approach adapted to age, educational trends and your needs.

Final Thought

When we talk about multilingualism, we are really talking about the way the world is “read” through different systems of signs, habits and meanings. Every language acquired brings a new perspective, a different flow of thought and a broader understanding of reality.

Your child is at the center of our lessons. With a high level of communication, speaking exercises and interaction, your child will learn to communicate in Bosnian with Tako Lako and enjoy using it. We hope you will place your trust in us and provide your child with a high-quality, modern and engaging Bosnian language course.