Parenting Styles and Children's English-Speaking Ability in Four Bilingual Families: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Parenting practices may shape young children's opportunities to develop English-speaking skills in bilingual family environments. This study aimed to explore parenting styles and parental communication practices in relation to children's English-speaking ability in four bilingual families in Indonesia. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, data were collected through online semi-structured interviews with parents, naturalistic observations of parent-child interactions, and children's English-speaking activities, including storytelling and picture description. The findings indicated that three families demonstrated characteristics of authoritative parenting, including emotional warmth, regular language activities, and active parental involvement. These practices were accompanied by children's reported willingness and confidence to speak English. In contrast, one family demonstrated a more permissive approach, with less structured language exposure and less active parental involvement. The findings also highlighted the role of responsive communication, shared educational media activities, and consistent opportunities to use English in everyday interactions. Given the small sample and qualitative design, the findings provide contextual insights rather than evidence of causal effects. This study highlights the potential importance of supportive parenting practices in creating opportunities for young children to use English in bilingual family settings.