‘This is a Chinese vegetable’: Language socialization in dinner table conversations of Chinese immigrant families in the U.S.

Abstract

This study explored the role of dinner table conversations in language socialization within three Chinese immigrant families in the U.S., examining how these interactions shape linguistic competence and cultural transmission. Analysis of audio recordings revealed that children in these families actively participated in language socialization, with older children playing a key role in socializing younger siblings, particularly in heritage language maintenance. The findings highlighted that older children, often more proficient in the family’s heritage language, acted as both recipients and agents of linguistic and cultural knowledge. Moreover, the study highlighted that birth order significantly influenced language socialization patterns, with older children frequently assuming the role of experts. The research also demonstrated that family routines and traditions were pivotal in strengthening children’s cultural identity and enhancing their connection to their heritage language. These findings underscore the importance of familial interactions in maintaining cultural values and supporting multilingual competence, particularly in multicultural and multilingual societies. This study contributes to understanding how everyday family interactions facilitate both language development and the preservation of cultural traditions among immigrant children.