Raising Kids in Finland: Should We Still Teach Them Filipino?

Raising children in a multicultural environment like Finland is both a privilege and a challenge. For Filipino parents, one of the most heartfelt dilemmas is whether to teach their children Filipino (Tagalog or other regional languages). With Finnish as the dominant language and English often serving as a global bridge, some parents might wonder if passing on Filipino is still worth the effort. The answer? Absolutely—and here’s why and how.

Why Teach Filipino in Finland?

Language is more than just a tool for communication; it’s a gateway to identity. For Filipino families in Finland, teaching the language is like handing your child a key to their heritage. It’s not just about enabling them to chat with relatives back home (though that’s a huge bonus); it’s about helping them understand where they come from. Filipino values, traditions, and that unmistakable Filipino humor often shine brightest in their original language. Imagine your child cracking a joke in Tagalog at a family gathering—now, that’s parenting goals!

But the benefits go beyond sentimentality. Research shows that bilingual children often have sharper problem-solving skills and better multitasking abilities. It’s like giving their brains a daily workout. Plus, knowing Filipino adds an extra layer to their cultural awareness, allowing them to navigate different worlds with empathy and confidence.

And let’s talk practicality. Sure, Finnish is essential for daily life, and English is the global lingua franca, but Filipino? It’s your child’s backstage pass to Southeast Asia’s vibrant culture and growing economy. Whether you’re on a family trip to the Philippines or connecting with the local Filipino community, speaking the language becomes more than a skill—it’s a superpower.

Then there’s the family connection. Picture this: your child greets their lola (grandmother) with a cheerful “Magandang hapon!” and watches her face light up with pride. These moments of shared language are priceless, especially with older relatives who might not speak Finnish or English. It’s a way to strengthen bonds and keep family ties alive across generations.

The Challenges of Going Bilingual

Let’s be honest: teaching Filipino in Finland isn’t always easy. Finnish takes center stage, especially once school starts, and English has that cool, international appeal. Filipino, by comparison, can feel like the underdog. Kids might even ask, “Why do I need to learn this? I already speak Finnish and English!”

And then there’s the challenge for parents. If you’ve been away from the Philippines for years, your own Filipino might be a bit rusty. Juggling work, family, and language lessons can feel like climbing a mountain. But with consistency—and maybe a little karaoke practice—it’s absolutely doable.

Making It Work: Practical Tips

1. Start Early
Toddlers are language sponges. If your three-year-old can learn the words to a Finnish nursery rhyme, they can definitely pick up “kumusta” and “salamat.” But even if your kids are older, don’t worry. It’s never too late to introduce Filipino into their lives.

2. Create a Filipino-Friendly Home
You don’t need to turn your home into a classroom. Watch Filipino cartoons together, play music from your favorite OPM artists, or cook sinigang while teaching them the names of the ingredients. Kids learn best when it’s fun—and what’s more fun than a family karaoke session featuring Eraserheads classics?

3. Leverage the Community
Finland has a growing Filipino community, and there are plenty of events and gatherings that celebrate Filipino culture. Whether it’s a fiesta, a food bazaar, or a church event, these are perfect opportunities for kids to hear and use the language naturally. Bonus: you get to enjoy some lumpia while you’re at it.

4. Celebrate Effort, Not Perfection
If your kids mix Filipino with Finnish and English, that’s totally normal. “Puwede mo bang i-pass yung remote?” might sound like linguistic chaos, but it’s actually a sign they’re processing multiple languages. Celebrate the effort, not just the outcome.

5. Be Patient and Persistent
Language learning is a marathon, not a sprint. There will be times when your child insists on speaking Finnish because it’s easier or they feel shy about their Filipino accent. That’s okay. Keep encouraging them, gently but consistently. Those small efforts add up.

The Big Picture

Teaching your child Filipino in Finland is more than just passing on a language. It’s about gifting them a sense of identity and belonging. It’s equipping them with tools to connect deeply with their heritage while thriving in a multicultural world.

And no, teaching Filipino doesn’t mean neglecting Finnish or English. Kids are incredible language learners. They can navigate between languages like pros, and each one enriches their understanding of the world. Being trilingual? That’s not just cool; it’s a competitive edge.

So, if you’re wondering whether teaching your kids Filipino is worth it, the answer is a resounding yes. It’s not just about grammar or vocabulary; it’s about legacy, love, and laughter—and maybe a few unforgettable karaoke duets along the way.

As a parent, you’re not just raising a child; you’re nurturing a global citizen. By teaching them Filipino, you’re giving them a piece of their roots, a connection to their family, and a deeper understanding of who they are. And in a world that’s increasingly interconnected, that’s a gift that will serve them for a lifetime.