Expert: Jene Aviram - 1/27/2010

Question
Hi Jene! I have a 4 years old girl diagnosed PDD NOS. She is now on ABA therapy. Since we are Indonesians, our language at home automatically is in Indonesian language.  Recently, we have just applied fot the US Permanent Residence. What we are worried is that will my girl be able to cope with two languages when we are in States? Since her therapy is in Indonesian language now. Wouldn't she be confused and upset her? thanks for your advice. Gbu

Answer
Hi Elisabeth,

I can totally understand your concerns.  I know how important it is to you that your daughter progresses and I'm sure worried about a set back.  Most likely, it will be a little confusing for your daughter in the beginning, just as it would for any child.  But she'll pick it up sooner than you think.  There are so many people in America who's native language is something other than English and the kids do really well.  In fact, in some of the homes here, the agencies provide a translator for the parents who don't speak English at all, so that they can understand what the therapists are doing, but the therapy is still done in English and the kids respond well to it.  

The fact that you actually speak English will help a lot too.  I personally know a number of bilingual kids that have done excellently and their parents were terribly worried that their child would regress when a new language was introduced.  I can tell that you are a loving and concerned Mom.  No doubt you put a lot of thought into relocating to the States and ultimately I'm sure you will look back and be glad about your decision.  I'm not sure how the services are in your country but your daughter will get a lot of therapy and support in the States.

I wish you great luck and success.
Jene Aviram
http://www.nlconcepts.com