Time passes, and generations grow up, often in different locations. Our lives and languages change as the years turn to decades, and our families scatter around the world, growing up in different cultures and speaking different languages.
Maintaining family ties over long distances can be hard enough.
Keeping the family connected when not everyone speaks the same language can be almost impossible.
But let’s not dwell on the difficulties.
Instead, let’s look at how we can turn situations like this into great opportunities.
Jump into Casual Conversations in Arabic
Connecting with family members in other countries is a great way to practice your language without any of the potential stress that comes from speaking with strangers or even instructors.
Many people speak very hesitantly in those cases because they’re not comfortable around others. But when you speak with family, you know they will stick it out with you. They get the opportunity to help you through this learning process, and you can relax and just talk about whatever is on your mind.
Here’s something else to consider: families often have a lot to talk about. And the things they discuss may not be the kinds of things you’d feel comfortable talking about with an instructor.
But these are the things that everyday people talk about, well, every day. The more comfortable you get with these conversational topics, the sooner you’ll start to adapt to your new language.
Making Connections in Modern Times
Modern technology has enabled more communication between families in distant countries than ever before.
Even if you are just starting to learn their language, you can use a wide range of programs to stay connected.
Yes, there will likely be some difficulties in scheduling times to video chat each other – depending on the number of time zones your call will cross – but once you set up a schedule, you’ll be able to meet up regularly and put your Arabic skills to the test.
Compare that to previous years when long-distance phone calls cost an arm and a leg, and video calls weren’t even possible. If the biggest obstacle between you and your family members is a question of timing, then things are looking pretty good.
Everyone Can Learn Together
When is the best time to start your Arabic classes?
Well, that all depends on how soon you and your family would like to speak with relatives from all over the world.
We have an extensive range of Arabic classes for kids as well as adults, that introduce everyone of all ages to the basics of the language.
The exciting thing is, you can begin your journey to learning Arabic and connecting with family, and you can also start your kids and teens on this journey as early as you want. Our kids classes are specifically tailored for children between kindergarten and fifth grade, so you can start making these family connections at the earliest stages in their lives.
Anyone can start this journey and maintain close family relations.
Your Family Can Be Your Coach
Speaking to family offers a great support structure that encourages you throughout the entire learning process.
Who better, then, to coach and support you and your kids than other family members?
The best thing about making these connections is that you will all have a very real and tangible goal, and everyone will be able to experience the benefits of improving your Arabic skills – namely, you’ll all be able to establish and maintain a connection with family members who would otherwise be separated by thousands of miles and a definite vocabulary barrier.
Get to Know the Culture
What is daily life like for your family members who live in another country? What issues do they face? What kind of education or career hurdles do they face? What about local activities? Don’t forget all the regional cuisine. Add to that the Arabic dialect they use, and you can begin to get a real feel for a culture that may be very different from your own.
All of this can open up for you as you continue to learn your language.
Learning Arabic is like a doorway into all these traditions, cultures, activities, and more. All you have to do is take the first step toward learning the language so you can start making connections with your family in other countries.