Even if parents don't speak one of the target languages of their child's DLI program, parents still support language development at home. We must understand that children will often be reluctant to "perform" in the second language for adults.
Some of the key ways parents can support and foster a language-rich environment are listed below:
•Create a supportive learning environment in the language of the home; read, write, listen, and talk to your student in your own language.
•Read WITH and TO your child in your native language EVERY day.
•Ask open-ended questions. (Use question words such as "how," and "why.")
•Encourage curiosity by teaching children to question the world around them.
•Emphasize the value of acquiring another language.
•Applaud their efforts in the language immersion.
•Develop effective study skills.
•Volunteer in the immersion classroom or help with materials, activities, or field trips.
•Extend cultural experiences beyond the classroom.
•Expose your student to the language through technology and media.
•Later, encourage your child to participate in an exchange or service program that will require interaction with people in the target language.