Sino-Canadian parents' perceptions of their children's Chinese literacy development

Abstract

This qualitative study was conducted in a Northwestern Ontario urban community where the population of Sino-Canadian people is approximately 300 members. The purpose of the study was to describe Sino-Canadian parents’ perceptions of Chinese language maintenance, factors which influence their children’s Chinese literacy development, and the strategies they used to maintain their children’s family literacy. Data were collected from interviews with six Chinese parents who had school aged children. Three themes emerged from the analysis of the data: general perceptions of language maintenance, family literacy practices, and concerns and issues. The children, parents, and the literacy and language environment of children all play an important role in achieving Chinese language maintenance. Family literacy is a vehicle for promoting Chinese language and culture.