As parents, we all want the best for our children—educationally, culturally, and emotionally. When it comes to language, the term “mother tongue” holds significant meaning. In educational contexts like the International Baccalaureate (IB), the mother tongue refers to any language a student speaks at home, other than the primary language of instruction at school. Whether it’s the first language learned, the language spoken most frequently, or the language most closely tied to one’s identity, the mother tongue plays a vital role in a child’s development.

Why Does the Mother Tongue Matter?

In many educational settings, particularly in the United States, the mother tongue can sometimes be viewed as an obstacle to mastering English. However, research suggests the opposite. Valuing and nurturing a child’s mother tongue can actually enhance learning, foster personal growth, and build a stronger, more inclusive school environment. When schools actively support multiple languages, they help to create a learning space that respects and celebrates cultural diversity, leading to higher academic achievement and promoting global citizenship.

At All Saints’, we take pride in the rich linguistic diversity of our school community. In addition to English, our families speak 18 other languages, representing five continents! Our IB Language Policy recognizes the importance of maintaining a student’s mother tongue for several reasons:

• Identity and Confidence: Developing a child’s mother tongue helps to shape their sense of identity. It also builds confidence, allowing them to thrive in a diverse, international community of learners.
• Academic Achievement: Literacy skills in the mother tongue often transfer to other languages, including English. This can lead to higher levels of academic success as students become more proficient in both languages.
• Emotional Well-being: When children are encouraged to maintain and grow their skills in their mother tongue, it enhances their self-esteem and sense of belonging.

How You Can Support Your Child’s Mother Tongue

At All Saints’, we encourage families to actively engage in maintaining their child’s proficiency in their mother tongue. Doing so not only reinforces academic success but also supports emotional and cultural well-being. In our IB Language Policy, we offer free resources to help families foster literacy in their home languages while their children are completing formal education in English.

Supporting your child’s mother tongue is not just about language—it’s about honoring who they are, where they come from, and preparing them to be global citizens in an increasingly interconnected world.