Home sharing brings people together from different backgrounds, cultures, and sometimes even languages. It’s an amazing opportunity to learn from each other, but it can also come with challenges—especially when people don’t speak the same language.
Imagine Sarah, a home sharing provider, who welcomes Miguel into her home. Miguel is new to Canada and speaks mostly Spanish, while Sarah speaks only English. At first, they struggle to communicate about simple things like meal times, house rules, and daily routines. But with patience, creativity, and the right tools, they find ways to understand each other and build a strong home sharing relationship.
Good communication is the key to a successful home sharing relationship. When people don’t speak the same language, it can lead to:
- Misunderstandings – Important details, like medication schedules or personal preferences, might get lost in translation.
- Frustration – Both the home sharing provider and the individual they support may feel stressed when they can’t express their thoughts clearly.
- Feeling Left Out – When someone struggles to understand conversations, they might feel isolated.
But don’t worry—there are simple and effective ways to communicate, even when speaking different languages!
Tips for Communicating Across Languages
1. Use Simple and Clear Language
- Speak slowly and clearly to help the other person understand.
- Use short sentences and avoid slang or complicated words.
- Repeat important information in different ways if needed.
Example: Instead of saying, “I’ll run to the store quickly to grab a couple of things,” say, “I am going to the store. I will be back soon.”
2. Use Pictures, Gestures, and Written Notes
- Point at objects when talking about them.
- Draw simple pictures or use printed images to explain things.
- Write down important information in both languages (like daily schedules or emergency contacts).
Example: Mei, who speaks Mandarin, and her home sharing provider, Kevin, use a picture schedule to show daily activities like breakfast, shower time, and bedtime.
3. Learn Key Words in Each Other’s Language
- Learn basic phrases like “Hello,” “Thank you,” “Are you okay?” and “Do you need help?”
- Write a list of important words related to daily life, such as “food,” “bathroom,” or “doctor.”
Example: Sarah learns how to say “Good morning” in Spanish, while Miguel learns to say “Dinner is ready” in English.
4. Use Technology to Help Translate
There are many apps and tools that can help with translation, including:
- Google Translate – Translates text, voice, and even pictures
- SayHi – Helps translate spoken words in real time. words.
- Pictello – Lets people create stories or instructions with pictures and words.
Example: John, a home sharing provider, uses Google Translate on his phone to help his housemate, Ahmed, read important information in Arabic.
5. Be Patient and Have a Sense of Humor
- It’s okay to make mistakes—what matters is that you keep trying!
- Laugh off misunderstandings and focus on the effort, not perfection.
- Encourage the person to ask questions and let them know it’s okay to take time to respond.
Example: When Mei accidentally says “cat” instead of “car,” she and Kevin laugh and use pictures to clear up the confusion.
Local resources
If you’re struggling with language barriers, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Agencies, community groups, and cultural organizations often offer:
- https://issbc.org/ Helping immigrants build a future in Canada.
- https://mosaicbc.org/our-services/english-classes-and-testing/ MOSAIC has a committed team ready to help you find the right immigrant services and employment support.
- https://www.dcrs.ca/ We listen with open hearts and minds to connect you to inclusive, innovative and culturally safe programs and services as you navigate your life in Canada.
- Free Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Courses | NonprofitReady Learn how to cultivate more diverse, equitable, and inclusive spaces in your organization and community with these free DEI courses
