For parents
For
parents
On this page
READING IN THE HOME LANGUAGE
Books in your language
Would you like your child to enjoy stories read aloud in your own language? Stories carry culture, and that culture comes alive when children hear them in the language spoken at home. Van Alle Talen Thuis provides books in many languages — so libraries, schools, and childcare locations have an ever-growing collection of books in the home languages of the children they welcome.
Whether your home language is Arabic, Polish, Hindi, Dutch, Russian, Somali, or any other — everyone can borrow these books, and everyone can experience them. Reading in the home language matters deeply for every child's language development.
Why it matters
Four reasons why reading in the home language is valuable for every child.
1
Key to learning Dutch
A strong home language makes learning Dutch easier. The better a child develops their first language, the more smoothly the new language follows.
2
Understanding between cultures
Stories build bridges. Children discover that the same tales are told in different ways around the world — sometimes alike, sometimes wonderfully different.
3
Feeling safe, learning better
Children feel seen and at ease at school when they know their home language is welcome there too.
4
Citizens of the world
Children learn from each other's languages and cultures — and grow into curious, open-minded citizens of the world.
What can you do as a parent?
Reading in the home language matters for your child. Reading aloud isn't just fun and cosy — your child also learns new words. That's good for vocabulary in any language. Books also bring back the culture of the country your family comes from. By reading aloud and talking about the stories together, you share a little of that world with your child.
Three small steps for home
- Three small steps for home
- Ask your child a word in Dutch — and then in your home language.
- Visit the library together and choose a book in your language.
Tips en resources
Three trusted sources for reading and language fun at home, for every age.
Tips for children aged 0–2. Help your baby discover books early on.
Tips for language with children aged 0–12. Practical and easy to follow.
Prentenboeken in alle talen
Picture books in around 20 languages, read aloud online. Listen and watch together.
Where to find the multilingual book collection
The collection is spread across five public libraries in the Brainport region. See where you can borrow books and in which languages.
Frequently asked questions
Can anyone borrow the multilingual books?
Yes. Anyone with a library card at one of the participating libraries can borrow the books — parents, children, teachers, and anyone else who's interested.