The Detrimental Effects of Punishing Children for Speaking Their Native Language in Schools: A Nigerian Case Study

The Detrimental Effects of Punishing Children for Speaking Their Native Language in Schools: A Nigerian Case Study

This article examines the counterproductive consequences of penalizing children for speaking their native languages in Nigerian primary and secondary schools. Despite the global recognition of multilingualism as a cognitive and cultural asset, many educational institutions in Nigeria continue to impose punitive measures on students for communicating in their indigenous languages, ostensibly to promote proficiency in English. Drawing on existing literature and psychological theories, this article highlights the negative impacts of such practices, proposes alternative approaches that embrace linguistic diversity, and underscores the importance of preserving native languages. It also provides recommendations for parents and educators to foster an environment where children can learn and value multiple languages, including their mother tongue, without fear of reprisal.