Tips for dealing with language barriers with families

A frequently asked question from educators is:

How do I deal with language barriers with families?

And it's a great question because most of us don't have ESOL (English as second or other language) training. Educators want to build great relationships with families and need to be able to communicate about the child.

Additionally, it's important to be inclusive and respectful of families with diverse backgrounds and cultures. As the EYLF states:

Respecting diversity means within the curriculum valuing and reflecting the practices, values and beliefs of families. Educators honour the histories, cultures, languages, traditions, child rearing practices and lifestyle choices of families.

Regular communication is key in building supportive relationships with families.

So, how do you do that when language is a barrier? You don't speak the family's language and they don't speak yours or are limited in speaking English.

Here are some things to try (in no particular order) - some are quick and easy and others will take longer and some preparation.

1. Use Google translate or other communication apps that have translation services inbuilt
2. Use an interpreter (paid service or a family friend or relative)
3. Provide information in multiple formats - verbal in person, in writing, video, text, email etc
4. Provide written information in English and languages common to the community
5. Employ educators who speak the languages of the cultural groups in the community
6. Learn some words from languages in your community and use them with children and families
7. Create information sheets with pictures to use as visual cues and aids when talking to families
8. Keep written information as simple and short as possible
9. Include images, diagrams, charts, illustrations and flowcharts in written information
10. Display posters and signs in community languages
11. Ask families who speak another language and speak English well if they are willing to assist other CaLD families especially when they are new to the service
12. Be empathetic if the family is frustrated that they can’t communicate freely, if appropriate show in a supportive manner that it’s frustrating for you too
13. Check that you have been understood by asking open-ended questions (Hint: Using the question "Do you understand?" usually isn't helpful) 
14. Make up samples to show families eg. a child’s bag with spare clothes, nappies and drink bottle with a name on it
15. Learn some songs from community languages and sing them with the children, have the families join in
16. Learn the families names and how to say them correctly. Try writing them down phonetically or record the person saying their name on your phone so you can practice it later or use it as a reminder.
17. If you have the necessary consent, you could video a behaviour or routine to show the parent when discussing it with them later.
18. Be patient, warm and encouraging as the family communicates, pay attention to gestures and ask simple questions to determine that you’ve understood correctly
19. Use simple but not broken English and speak at your normal volume level
20. Slow down and speak in shorter sentences, take pauses and allow time for the family to process what you have said
21. If talking about a place in your centre such as the toilets or a particular room, take the person to see it rather than pointing or giving directions
22. Avoid using slang, acronyms, nicknames or jargon where they might be confusing or isolating
23. Laugh and smile with the family where appropriate, it’s a universal communication tool!
24. Be patient and consistent in talking to families and don’t be tempted to avoid conversations because they may be difficult.
25. Communicate face to face wherever possible

Overcoming language barriers is an important skill and practice when it comes to building collaborative, supportive and respectful relationships with families. It also relates to cultural diversity and inclusive practice.

Here are some resources, you and your team may find helpful: