Children's Special: Importance Of Learning Traditional Language As A Child

Traditional language refers to the language or dialect that has been passed down through generations within a particular culture, community, or region.

Language is an important aspect of culture and identity; in a culturally diverse country like Nigeria, the preservation and promotion of traditional languages are of utmost importance.

For many years, Nigerian children have been increasingly exposed to the English language as the primary medium of communication and education, leading to a decline in the use and knowledge of traditional languages.

Importance of Learning Traditional Language

Learning a traditional language as a child is important for several reasons.

1. Preservation and Promotion of Rich Cultural Heritage

Nigeria is home to diverse languages, each one representing a unique culture and history. Learning a traditional dialect enables children to connect with their roots, understand their heritage, and appreciate the diversity of their country.

Speaking a traditional language enables children to communicate effectively with their elders and community members, cultivating a sense of belonging and respect.

2. Bridge to Inter-generational Communication

Proficiency in a traditional language can serve as a bridge to inter-generational communication.

Many older Nigerians are more comfortable speaking their native language than English, and being able to converse with them in their language helps maintain strong family bonds and relationships. It also allows children to access traditional knowledge, stories, and customs that are often passed down orally in indigenous languages.

This, in turn, enables younger generations to learn valuable lessons from their elders and gain a deeper understanding of their cultural heritage. Speaking a traditional language can also provide a sense of continuity and connection to one’s ancestors, which is essential for personal identity and self-esteem.

By communicating in their native language, children can show respect to the elders and their cultural traditions, encouraging a sense of community and shared values. Intergenerational communication in traditional languages can help to preserve cultural practices and traditions that might have been lost over time.

Moreover, learning one’s cultural language as a child can help develop cognitive skills, such as memory and problem-solving, and enhance academic performance. Research has shown that being bilingual or multilingual can lead to improved cognitive abilities, better problem-solving skills, and improved creativity.

By exposing children to different languages at a young age, they are able to develop a greater understanding and appreciation of language diversity.

3. Create Opportunities

Furthermore, knowing a native language can also open up economic opportunities for children in the future. Nigeria is a country with a diverse market, and being able to speak a traditional language can be a valuable skill in the workforce, especially in sectors such as tourism, culture, and international relations.

This skill can give them a competitive edge in the job market, allowing them to access employment opportunities that might not be available to those who only speak English. This enables children to benefit from the growing demand for cultural consultants, interpreters, and translators, creating new career paths and possibilities.

In light of the importance of traditional languages, efforts should be made to incorporate them into the Nigerian educational system. Schools should offer classes in traditional languages, and parents should encourage their children to speak their native language at home.

Additionally, cultural events, festivals, and language programs can also help in promoting the use and preservation of traditional languages.

Conclusion

To conclude, learning a traditional language as a child in Nigeria helps preserve cultural heritage, maintain family ties, help cognitive development, and create economic opportunities.

It is important for both individuals and society as a whole to recognise the value of traditional languages and make efforts to ensure their survival for future generations.