Day Camp for Young Translators: Helping Children of Newcomers Find the Words

It’s not the norm for most children. That is, unless you’re the child of an immigrant.

Then, child language brokering – or translating for your non-English speaking parents – is accepted and, in many cases, required.

It’s a huge responsibility, and for some, can be overwhelming.

“It’s hard for us to speak if we don’t understand some words,” one young translator says.

“It’s also hard to language brokering because you learn things you didn’t want to learn,” another points out.

“Speaking fast making us nervous,” another adds.

They’re sentiments TIES (The Immigrant Education Society) has often heard. That’s why it’s hosting several Day Camps for Young Translators.

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The first free, four-day camp was recently held at the end of July at TIES Westwinds campus.  

The camp welcomed a total of 13 youngsters, aged 12–17, who have at some point provided language support for their newcomer parents.  

The goal of the camp: learn healthy, supportive ways to continue to help their families when it comes to language brokering/translation.

“There is a need for youth to have that safe space, to get to know each other, to share experiences,” Kreisha Hilario, Manager, TIES Centre for Immigrant Research (CIR) says.

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The Challenges of Language Brokering/Translation

Hilario knows what she’s talking about. She’s often had to be the language broker – or translator – for her own parents.

She was also one of the key researchers in a year-long study conducted by the Centre for Immigrant Research.  

The results of that study found it can be very stressful and impactful for a child to translate.  

One key challenge: being able to speak well-enough in their old language and new one.

They have to master both languages to be able to translate well,” Hilario points out.

But Hilario says it goes beyond that, adding that children are often also put into uncomfortable or sensitive situations. Especially, when it comes to medical, financial, or legal appointments.

“It's not just the language that we need to translate,” Hilario points out. “It's also the cultural context.

“This phenomenon is very understudied, and a lot of people are unaware, about the need for translation.”

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Four Days of Learning and Fun!

TIES knows that learning can be fun and that’s why the camp was also packed with fun activities.

There were different kinds of workshops, including ones on how to go to the bank and doctors’ office. The youth were also able to meet with local law enforcement to learn about legal and illegal activities.

“It was really interesting!” one young participant says.

“People here help us socialize with different people, and show us different places, and explained that it’s normal to feel bad in certain situations, and I started to know more cool people!”

“I want part two!!! Every day was the BEST!” says another.

“I really enjoyed it and met new friends. It was really fun.”

“I hope you do this camp again. Thank u (sic) TIES,” adds another youngster.

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Come and Join the Fun

That wish, is TIES’ command!  

A second 4-Day Youth Day Camp for Young Translators has been scheduled for Aug. 18-21, 2025.

This program is funded by the City of Calgary – FCSS and there are no restrictions. Canadian Born, International Student, Refugee, Refugee Claimant, Permanent Resident, Naturalized Canadian are all eligible and welcome.

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Related materials and articles:

https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-5-calgary-eyeopener/clip/16160384-youth-translator-camp

The Immigrant Education Society reflects on child language brokering in new book

Language Brokering Initiative

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Media RSVP, Interviews & Inquiries:

Tomasia DaSilva

Media and Relationship Strategist

Email: tomasiadasilva@immigrant-education.ca

Phone: 403-291-0002

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