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They're on their way to the foreign-language wing. That's…

“They're on their way to the foreign-language wing. That's no surprise. The foreign kids are always here, like they need to breathe air scented with their native language a couple times a day or they'll choke to death on too much American.” quote by Laurie Halse Anderson
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“They're on their way to the foreign-language wing. That's no surprise. The foreign kids are always here, like they need to breathe air scented with their native language a couple times a day or they'll choke to death on too much American.”

Laurie Halse Anderson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Immigrant children need moments to hear their native language, or they risk cultural loss.

In simple terms: Kids need native language exposure.

Key Takeaway

Preserve linguistic heritage.

Themes

culture language identity immigration

Mood

thoughtful empathetic

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • schools
  • family gatherings
  • community centers
  • language classes

Key Concepts

sociolinguistics psychology education

Questions to Reflect On

  • How to balance bilingualism?
  • What supports language retention?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on native language may hinder integration.

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