Parent Resources
Ó Ghlúin go Glúin
Raising children in a minoritized language such as Irish can be one of the most rewarding things you do. Even if you are only able to pass on a few words, you are gifting them with a lifelong knowledge of who they are, where they come from, and the vast cultural inheritance they are entitled to.
Cultural Preservation
By raising children in Irish, you pass on your cultural heritage to the next generation. Especially in the diaspora, these connections can be lost over time, and by giving Irish to your child you are making sure that generations to come will know where they come from and what their culture is. Knowing about our language means your children will also know that we are a distinct people with our own history and culture.
Cognitive Development
Bilingual or multilingual upbringing can have cognitive benefits for children. Research suggests that being exposed to multiple languages from an early age can enhance cognitive flexibility, problem-solving skills, and overall linguistic abilities. Any amount of language you can give them will help them understand all world languages better, no matter which they choose later in life.
Limited Exposure: Raising children in Irish often means not having many others around to provide language examples for them, or other children to play with in Irish. Things that can help are:
have at least one daily activity that all agree is only done in Irish
have special trips (ie. museum) that are only in Irish
connect with any parents you can (something we can help you with, as we have active parents in our community)
Social Stigma
In certain contexts, speaking a minoritized language may be associated with marginalization or discrimination. Children may face challenges, such as negative attitudes or being perceived as "different" by their peers or society.
advocating, at school
presenting positive face, your kids will see your own opinion and mirror it, make positive associations, language of love
be prepared, people in Ireland will say you are crazy, people in Canada will say you are wasting your time
Stronger Family Bonds
Speaking Irish at home, when you may be the only ones in your community doing so, can create a specialy, strong bond within your family. Many people mention how Irish becomes a shared language that can be spoken freely around others, and help your children tell you what they need in situations where they may be shy. This strengthens family ties and creates a sense of belonging to the broader Global Gaelic community.
Expanded Opportunities
Knowing a minoritized language can open up unique opportunities for children later in life. Understanding that there are subtle differences between values, morals, and cultures, all based in language, can facilitate cultural understanding and enable your child to communicate with and compassionately understand a wider range of people.
There are many people in the diaspora who want to give their children the gift of language, but there are also unique challenges. By connecting with other parent and knowing these challenges, we can overcome them together.
Lack of Support and Resources
Finding adequate resources, such as books, learning materials, and even rhymes and games, can be challenging in minoritized languages, due to their history of repression.
have media available mostly in Irish through TG4 kids programming and books, rather than English
link to best teaching websites
link to Cúla4
link to library books
Language Maintenance
Sustaining a minoritized language across generations can be a significant challenge. It requires ongoing dedication, active language use, and fostering a positive language identity within the community.
Parents, remember that the Irish language and culture belong to your child and their descendants, just as they belong to you. Whether or not you choose to pass on Irish, it might be something they regret not experiencing and wish to introduce to their own children one day. By starting now, even with a few words or phrases, you not only help preserve an endangered language but also give your child confidence, dignity, and a strong connection to their roots. You have the power to refresh your family's cultural bonds to Ireland, ensuring a lasting legacy for generations to come.
Rhymes
Coming Soon