Adopting from a distant nation provides for the possibility of a language barrier. As we have opened up our family to the possibility of adopting a child as old as 4 years of age, there is a chance that they will be already talking, but not talking English. "Yikes!", I thought. That could be a little frustrating for the little guy/girl (as well as for Mom & Dad). I have been encouraged by several adopting parents that said that this surpisingly poses only a small challenge. These kids learn a basic daily vocabulary really, really quickly and continue to master our language no sweat.
However, we are going to be building some basic vocab in their 1st language- Amharic. As there are only about 2.7 million people that speak Amharic outside of Ethiopia you have likely not heard it much. Let's just say it doesn't exactly come easily to English speakers. We'll pick up some basics but be trusting that our kids are going to be quicker learners than us. Melissa does have some concern about her kids plotting against her in their secret Amharic language.
A couple interesting Ethiopian facts:
- Ethiopia is one of the oldest countries in the world (about 3,000 years old).
- It is famous for its long distance runners.
- It is the origin of the coffee bean.
- It is a Christian country (the second oldest).
- The life expectancy of men is reported to be 52 and women 54 years.
- The name "Ethiopia" is mentioned thirty-seven times in the Bible.
2 comments:
Hey Barnicks, it is the Cook Family here in good ole Carrollton, TX. How exciting to be able to read and find out what is going on in your life. Congrats on the exiting new journey in your lives! You guys will be great parents. :) (by the way, I stole your blog from the Scott Whitmarsh family blog) LOL
I am sorry, I had no idea Miss Cook would steal your info! I never took her for a thief! :) I too am so excited for your family to grow!! I am also excited to hear you are coming west again. That will be fun to see you guys soon hopefully.
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