Children taught and socialized in their mother tongue develop the necessary skill that effectively guides their literacy skills in other languages.
This requires building a strong foundation for the first language at the early stages of the child’s development, which is crucial in conceptualizing the language acquisition process.
Once this is done, the basic structures and communication patterns of the native language are imprinted into the child who then uses that knowledge to acquire additional languages and also aids them to build a sense of cultural and social identity.
This was according to the Deputy Executive Director of the National Commission on Culture (NCC), Dr. Richardson Commey Fio.
He said Ghanaian children can become linguistically competent if their parents begin to appreciate the pivotal role local languages play in improving their children’s academic and intellectual performance.
The unfortunate thing we have in Ghana is that people are speaking English to their children instead of the local language.
Dr. Commey Fio, speaking at the launch of E&E Foundation’s community Twin-care project in Winneba, emphasized the importance of preserving the linguistic heritage of the country. He believes that parents play a crucial role in this effort, as many contemporary languages have overshadowed indigenous ones.
Dr. Fio also advised parents to take special care of their children, especially those with physical challenges. He emphasized that having a disability does not mean a lack of ability.
The Deputy Director of the NCC added that parents should recognize and nurture the unique talents of their children. Encouraging children to develop their skills is essential, as they will be the ones shaping the future.
Source: Oyerepafmonline.com Bernard K Dadzie
