Who will teach our babies Maltese if we don't?

Abstract

This opinion article explores the importance of early childhood language exposure in safeguarding the future of Maltese, with particular attention to the linguistic environments of children aged 0–3. It argues that language acquisition begins long before formal schooling and that everyday interactions with parents, carers and early childhood educators play a crucial role in shaping children's linguistic development. Against the backdrop of Malta's increasingly multilingual society and its reliance on international carers, the article raises concerns about children's limited exposure to Maltese during their formative years. It discusses existing language requirements for third-country nationals and highlights a University of Malta initiative to develop a practical Maltese-language syllabus for international carers working with young children. The article advocates accessible, occupation-specific language training and coordinated national policies that support Maltese-language development from birth. It emphasises the shared responsibility of families, educators, employers and policymakers in ensuring the intergenerational transmission of Maltese while respecting linguistic diversity and multilingualism.