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The Use of Individual Methods for Preserving and Developing Children's Speech Characteristics in American-Slavic Families

Iryna Kalmykova
Speech therapist teacher, Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine / Speech therapist teacher, West Hollywood College Preparatory School, Los Angeles, USA
DOI Crossref DOI 10.37547/tajssei/Volume07Issue06-02
tajssei 2025
VOL. 7 / NO. 06 JUNE
FULL TEXT PP. 08-15
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VOLUME 7
ISSUE 06
YEAR 2025
PAGES 08-15
RESEARCH OVERVIEW

Abstract

This article is dedicated to examining individualized methods for preserving and developing children’s speech characteristics in American–Slavic families. The growing prevalence of mixed-language households and the risk of heritage-language attrition underscore the relevance of targeted interventions. Drawing on nine recent studies, the paper analyzes four key domains: heritage-language assessment tools, shared-syntax priming, home-based socialization strategies, and school-based immersion models. Novelty lies in synthesizing clinical linguistics, psycholinguistic priming, ethnographic family practices, and policy analysis into a unified framework. Within the work, it describes Sentence‐Repetition‐Task scoring schemas, investigates structural priming data, and explores case studies of “One Parent, One Language” and lullaby‐based sessions. Particular attention is paid to how error‐type allowances and high‐frequency constructions can reinforce Slavic speech development. The study sets out to identify best practices for dual‐language vitality and to propose a hybrid model adaptable to Ukrainian and American schools. Methods include comparative analysis, source synthesis, and case‐study evaluation. In conclusion, it  outlines an integrated model for assessment, curriculum, family engagement, and programme design. This article will benefit speech-language pathologists, bilingual educators, and policymakers.

RESEARCH TOPICS

Keywords

heritage language bilingual assessment structural priming OPOL , immersion programme cross-linguistic influence Slavic speech scoring schema family language policy speech pathology
SOURCES & SCHOLARSHIP

References

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