WELCOME TO THE 'MULTILINGUAL FAMILY IN THE UK' WEBSITE!!

Many parents in the UK come from another part of the world and often, this means that they speak a language other than English (sometimes, more than just the one extra language even!). Being bilingual is a fantastic quality that many parents want to share with their children. But starting a bilingual family can be hard at times...

Getting together with other bilingual families locally can help as it is important for a child to realise that the minority language used at home is not just 'mummy's or daddy's funny language'.

As it can be difficult to find each other, this website has been created to help parents get together and form bilingual playgroups or carry out other types of language related activities.

So, how does it work? How can you find out about other parents speaking the same language as you in the area where you live?

Well, it's quite simple, really. On the left side is a map of the UK. You have to click on the area where you live and you will be sent onto a forum page (message board) where, hopefully, you and others will post messages to start informal 'minority language' play groups.

Already in existence are a number of French, German and Spanish groups and also some international and multilingual groups where speakers come to discuss issues relating to raising children bilingual.

It can be very informal with people meeting in each other's houses or more set up: it's up to you to decide. Depending on the children's age, different activities can be organised: one group in Cambridgeshire has a rota where by each parent organises a saturday morning with the children: it can be singing, pottery or nature walk, etc, etc but of course in the minority language. What a great idea!

This website is here only to help you reach others!! The most important aspect is that languages should be enjoyed by parents and children... HAVE FUN!!!

Bonus bits of the website

The site also has a 'resources' section regarding multilingualism: under each language heading, we have listed information that we think might be relevant to multilingal parents: schools in their area, where to get books, magazines and products relating to your mother tongue etc.

We have also compiled a list of relevant links (or at least we think they are relevant...). If you can think of something else you think would be useful, do get in touch with us!