In 2019, I pursued the YMCA Summer Student Work Exchange to improve my French language skills and gain independence. I was placed in a position as an assistant at a French daycare and lived with a family who didn’t speak English. On my first day of work, I was told that I was not allowed to speak English at any cost; I learned the degree of social complexity amongst French and English speakers in Montreal, and that many parents in that area of the city desired purely Francophone influence.
In this role, in a hilarious way, I was challenged most by the children at the daycare, ages two to five. Sometimes they would speak in toddler blabber or misconjugate verbs, further challenging me to analyse the language. Additionally, they would ask me questions such as, “Where do you come from?” or “Can you sing the song ‘Havana’?”, a popular song at the time. These questions would remind me not take English as my first language for granted. This can be in regarding pop music or movies, but also because most employees at restaurants and cafes in Montreal would hear my accent and ask if I would prefer they speak English with me. This is an enormous privilege that English-speakers regularly take for granted as it can also facilitate international trade, careers, and travel opportunities.
As time goes on, I fear I will lose my French language skills. I’ve begun listening to French podcasts and I hope to one day find a career that requires French as a skill.
Taking a selfie with our coordinator, Simon, before returning home. From left to right, me, Grace, Simon.