Language-Based Books for a Diverse World

Our world is evolving, shifting, and changing daily. But one thing has remained the same: our children are inheriting a delightful melting pot of different cultures, races, lifestyles, and traditions that are just waiting to be explored.

As parents, caregivers, and educators, it’s no secret that we need to prepare our children for a life filled with multiple languages. Regardless of their career choices or where they may live, it is very likely that they will be communicating and working with people from all sorts of diverse language and cultural backgrounds.

The good news is that kids are wired to learn and learning a second (or third, or fourth,…) language is no different. With that in mind, we’ve located some excellent books and activities that will share the benefits of new languages in a bright, fun, and vibrant way. Enjoy!

Language-Based Books for a Diverse World

Easy Multicultural & Bilingual Activities
MKB has some great ideas for multicultural bilingual activities for kids that include games, food, exploration, and our favorite…READING. Go here to discover this treasure trove of language learning goodies.
We love this article because it has great tips and advice on using immersion (among other things) to inspire a love of foreign language learning in kids.
It’s a well-known fact that children who are consistently read to grow up have a staggering advantage with their vocabulary – sometimes estimated in the millions. And this huge headstart not only leads to reading readiness but stronger overall cognitive development in general. Every word is fuel for the brain. Read the article in its entirety here.
Best sign language books for kids
Oftentimes, when we hear the word “language,” we think of spoken words. That is all very true, but there’s another important language that is mainly “spoken” via hands and expressions. American Sign Language (ASL) is a natural language that serves as the predominant language of Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities.
“By introducing American Sign Language now, your child can begin to develop an interest in a new language while beginning to learn as you go along. Books are a great place to start!” Check out this list of wonderful ASL books for kids here.

Other Ways to Support Language-Based Learning

  • Introduce young learners to friends or relatives that speak another language.
  • Let kids experience cultural centers for themselves.
  • Invite them to watch documentaries about different cultures on YouTube.
  • Take them to restaurants where food from other countries is served.
The opportunities are endless!
What wonderful books and languages will your family discover?

Becky Flansburg

Rebecca “Becky” Flansburg is an author, freelance writer, and project manager for the non-profit online children’s literacy initiative, Multicultural Children’s Book Day (MCBD). Visit www.MulticulturalChildrensBookDay.com to learn more about this annual online children’s literacy celebration and #ReadYourWorld.

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