Bilingual Upbringing of Autistic Children in Minority Families: A Discussion

• In Event: At the Crossroads of Bilingual Education and Special Education

Abstract

Guided by the theories of language socialization and positive development, this literature review paper explores the perspectives of minority parents on raising their autistic children bilingually. A total of twenty-six articles were selected for an analysis of the factors influencing parental language choices at home and the impact of bilingualism on the development of autistic children. Findings suggest that although various factors (e.g. cultural heritage) influence parents’ decisions, bilingualism can overall have a positive effect on the development of autistic children. This paper addressed the limitations and potential gaps in the current literature. This review can assist parents and educators in better understanding the potential impact of bilingualism on the development of autistic children.

Author

• Xinru Jiang, University of California - San Diego