Broadening Understanding of the World and Introducing Foreign Culture and Knowledge through Juvenile Literature

Abstract

Language and culture are intertwined and cannot be isolated from one another while translating culture, particularly in the realm of literature, poses significant challenges. An effective foreign language curriculum ought to encompass cultural subjects. Educators working with children should adeptly infuse the cultural aspects of the language being taught into the educational materials. In the present era of technological advancements, people’s lifestyles, communication methods, and sources of information have all shifted towards electronic platforms. However, an excessive reliance on the digital environment for social interactions can have a detrimental impact on the development of young children. While it has become commonplace for modern children to embrace diverse foreign cultures, customs, languages, and traditions primarily through electronic means, this trend carries numerous adverse health consequences. Moreover, it hampers children’s ability to socialize, communicate openly and freely with others, and develop essential soft skills necessary to become well-rounded individuals. Furthermore, various health and psychological studies indicate that excessive exposure to technology impedes brain development, hindering a child’s capacity to think critically and imagine creatively. Since parents cannot constantly monitor their children’s online activities, youngsters may come across inappropriate content from various information sources and imitate them, leading to negative behavioral and psychological issues. However, the most effective way to liberate children from the clutches of technology, such as cell phones, computers, tablets, and televisions, is through the power of storybooks and literary works.