Researchers in Australia studied 176 language sessions over nearly 30 weeks to answer a question many multilingual families ask: can structured programs really help young children become confident speakers of a heritage language alongside English?
The study tracked how much a preschool teacher used Vietnamese versus English during lessons, and how much the children responded in each language. The children ranged across typical preschool ages and had varying levels of Vietnamese exposure at home.
Children's Vietnamese speech more than doubled with structured teaching
The most striking finding: when children received regular, intentional Vietnamese instruction, their speech output in Vietnamese doubled compared to other language programs studied previously. This wasn't passive learning—the program involved active participation, with children practicing speaking regularly rather than simply listening.
As the weeks progressed, children spoke more and more Vietnamese, showing increasing confidence and comfort. This upward trend continued even though the teacher gradually shifted toward using more English as the term went on, reflecting the preschool's traditional English-only environment.
Consistency over time matters more than how much English is spoken
The research shows that children absorb and use the language they're regularly exposed to, even in an environment where another language dominates. The program's success came from weekly sessions sustained over nearly seven months—not occasional cultural events or short-term classes.
For Singapore families, this finding is particularly relevant. Many parents worry that preschool will overshadow home languages like Mandarin, Malay, or Tamil. This study suggests that deliberate, ongoing programs can support heritage language development even when English is the wider school language.
Active speaking practice—not just listening—drives progress
The study used methods emphasizing active participation, and this design choice mattered. Children who had regular chances to actually speak the language showed real growth, rather than simply absorbing it passively. This matters when choosing heritage language programs: asking whether children actively practice speaking, rather than sitting quietly during instruction, can help you identify programs more likely to build real confidence and skill.
Steps to support heritage language development at preschool age
- Seek programs with consistent, regular sessions (ideally weekly) lasting several months rather than one-off events or sporadic classes.
- Prioritize programs where children actively speak and practice, not passive listening; ask educators directly what children do during lessons.
- Commit to sustained, structured input beyond home conversations—this study shows real progress takes time and repetition.