Preschool English Speaking Concern?

[Kevin y]

We are living in Toronto Area. I remember my 4-year-old was very active and social before 2-year-old (I mean not shy in playground, active when there was circle time at the library etc).I sent him to a private school since he was-2-year old on part time basis (3 days/week). But to my surprise, I found he was extremely shy, seldom talk and when talking, he talks extremely low voice in school even after 2 years in school. Although we mainly speak Mandarin at home and he speak better Mandarin than his peer, I have a little bit concern that his English is not picking up as his peer and as it suppose to be. I also think the reason he is not talking in school is because his english is hard to communicate with his classmate.
Is there anyway I can improve his english language ability? Where can I take him for a language assignment in GTA area?

[fluflu66]

READ THESE 2 ARTICLES. (THE FIRST DESCRIBES AREAS OF LANGUAGE NEED, WHILE THE SECOND OFFERS STRATEGIES SPECIFIC TO MANDARIN!!! YOU TEACH THEM HOW TO TEACH YOUR CHILD!)


First, don't discourage or cover-up his bilingual abilities. After I say a bit please look at the below sites for articles that are exactly what you are referring to. This (to me) is a very common occurrence in bilingual or what is called ESE (English as a second language) children. I think it is no coincidence that as your child has become older, and his exposure to monolingual friends has increased, that the "shyness" has gone up exponentially. The term "terrible twos" has always bothered me because it should be called "The talking twos" In developmental perspectives your son is compelled to communicate and collaborate, through language, with others. "Home languages" are not supported in environments where the curriculum or aptitude of the caregivers are not encouraging/supportive of this unique ability. I couldn't imagine this is done with intent but sometimes it is. "This is our country, learn our language..." is a ugly utterance Ive heard many times. Or, your school has incredible intentions but no support for how to accommodate a bi-lingual child. I would encourage you DAD to be this source of empowerment for both the school and your son by introducing ways in which "YOU" are effective with your son at home using language. You are the expert on this one. I would offer that when your son can have his needs met by the use of language in a supportive environment that he will "blossom" I am not a expert in this particular field but know those who are. Being as that Mandarin is considered by many to be the most difficult language to learn, your sons abilities to learn English in these settings with friends is waiting to be facilitated for. Write me back if you care to discuss this more.

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[Ann M]

ask your child's teacher - he/she will know the next childhood development screening date and you can take your child there to see if he is catching on or developing appropriately. good luck.