The Language Experiment

By: Camillo Lakiss and Kaisa Martiskainen
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  • Summary

  • How do I raise a multilingual child? Will exposing my child to multiple languages confuse them? Will their speech be delayed? How can I give them enough exposure to my mother tongue? These were just some of the questions that Kaisa and Camillo had when they were expecting their first child. Originally from Finland and Brazil, now living in the French speaking part of Canada, the couple searched for answers, literature and resources about multilingual upbringing.


    When their research turned out unfruitful, they agreed to do what felt most natural to them: practicing their own languages with their daughter while incorporating two local languages on top of that. The Language Experiment is a podcast where Kaisa and Camillo share their journey on multilingual parenting with hopes of helping and encouraging other parents who are looking to raise multilingual children. There will be interviews, practical tips and plenty of real life experiences and perspectives on multilingualism.


    You’ll discover how they helped their daughter become quadrilingual before the age of three only by reading, singing, playing and spending time outdoors with her. You’ll learn to recognize and critically assess some of the myths surrounding multilingual parenting. You’ll also hear from other parents and learn what worked for them and what didn’t. If you are a parent raising or wanting to raise children with multiple languages, this podcast is a must-listen. Hit subscribe now and join the community!
    © 2025 The Language Experiment
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Language Learning
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Episodes
  • Anna-Maria’s Story: Language, Identity and Belonging in Finland

    Anna-Maria’s Story: Language, Identity and Belonging in Finland
    Apr 17 2025

    #17

    In this episode of The Language Experiment, we continue our series on Language and Identity with a heartfelt and insightful conversation with Anna Maria, an entrepreneur and job coach who grew up in Finland in a multilingual family. With a Finnish mother, an Italian father, and parents who communicated in German, Anna Maria shares her unique experience of navigating childhood in a largely monolingual Finnish society.

    We discuss what it was like growing up bilingual—and even trilingual—when most of her peers spoke only Finnish, how passive exposure to German shaped her understanding of languages, and the moments of both pride and isolation that came with being different. Anna Maria also reflects on societal attitudes towards language and cultural identity in Finland during the 80s and 90s, and how her own sense of belonging was influenced by these dynamics.

    This conversation offers rich insights for anyone raising multilingual children or reflecting on their own multicultural upbringing.

    Subscribe to our feed and follow us on all podcast platforms. Reach out to us with your questions and topic suggestions. Let's build a community together!

    RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2188357.rss
    Website: www.languageexperiment.com
    E-mail: contact@languageexperiment.com
    Instagram: @language_experiment_podcast
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    49 mins
  • Multilingualism and Identity: Nurturing a strong sense of self

    Multilingualism and Identity: Nurturing a strong sense of self
    Dec 30 2024

    #16

    In this episode of the Language Experiment Podcast, hosts Kaisa and Camillo explore the emotional aspects of raising multilingual children and how it shapes their identity. They share personal experiences and discuss the challenges children face while navigating multiple languages and cultures.

    The episode covers the deep connection between language and cultural heritage, explaining how learning a family's language can strengthen a child's sense of pride and belonging. Kaisa and Camillo also offer practical tips for parents to help nurture a positive sense of self in their multilingual kids.

    Additionally, they highlight the importance of creating a positive environment both at home and within the community, celebrate cultural traditions, and encourage open conversations. They invite listeners to share their experiences and stories about multilingualism.

    Subscribe to our feed and follow us on all podcast platforms. Reach out to us with your questions and topic suggestions. Let's build a community together!

    RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2188357.rss
    Website: www.languageexperiment.com
    E-mail: contact@languageexperiment.com
    Instagram: @language_experiment_podcast
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    26 mins
  • Update on the year that has passed

    Update on the year that has passed
    Nov 15 2024

    #15

    Welcome back to The Language Experiment!

    After a year-long hiatus filled with life-changing events, We return to share our incredible journey of moving from Canada to Portugal. In this new episode, we recount selling our home, navigating a whirlwind of relocation logistics, and adapting to our new life abroad. From settling in, to our children's evolving language journeys, it's been a year of growth, challenges, and cultural shifts.

    Subscribe to our feed and follow us on all podcast platforms. Reach out to us with your questions and topic suggestions. Let's build a community together!

    RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2188357.rss
    Website: www.languageexperiment.com
    E-mail: contact@languageexperiment.com
    Instagram: @language_experiment_podcast
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    11 mins

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