As an independent project leader, consultant and concept developer, I deal with topics such as language development, reading promotion, low literacy and the family approach to literacy. I often do this in the form of assignments for libraries, provincial support organisations or municipalities for which I then develop a project or programme or advise on the aforementioned topics. The common denominator is that it is always about language and reading!
That I made my girlhood dream of doing 'something' with language and reading come true. I try daily to convey the passion and importance of this subject to others.
Yes, I believe it’s very important. When you travel to other countries you see why it is nice to speak different languages. Languages give you a wonderful insight into a culture.
You can start stimulating your baby's language development very early on. Your baby can hear in the womb from about 20 weeks, so you can start talking to your baby even then. The foundations for language skills are laid in the first 1,000 days of your child's life. It’s very important to talk to your child, read to them, and sing songs during their first 1,000 days. It doesn't matter if it’s in Dutch or another language.
Absolutely! We know from scientific research that mastering multiple languages has many advantages. Multilingual children often have better concentration, can think abstractly at an earlier age and learn other languages more easily.
Talk to your child in the language of your heart! This is probably the language you speak best, and therefore the one in which you can express things like emotions and humour. This creates a stronger, deeper bond with your child.
I am Katia van Bommel, 37 years old and mum of a chatty 3-year-old daughter. I am committed to a literate society as an independent consultant, project leader and concept developer.
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