Building Bridges Through Teaching English
by Lori Baker
For those who have recently relocated to the US, learning English serves as a bridge between cultures, understanding, and connection. For me English as a second language is way more than grammar rules or pronunciation tips, it’s a personal and rewarding experience that helps grow human connection and break down barriers. For both teacher and learner, the process is an exchange of cultures, stories, and growth.
For many women new to the U.S., learning English is a critical step in making it through the day-to-day life and building confidence to speak up for themselves and their families. At Lori's Language Lab, this isn’t just about perfecting a new language; it’s about creating a sense of belonging and offering a safe space for personal growth where you can learn English for daily life in the US.
Today, I'll share my story of finding connection through teaching English and explain why this work has the power to change lives—including my own.
How English Lessons Help Recent Immigrants Thrive in the U.S.
When I met Kholoud, a refugee mother of six, she had recently arrived in the U.S., it was clear that language wasn’t the only barrier she faced. Moving to a new country can feel isolating, especially when daily communication feels out of reach. People from my community were helping Kholoud and her family settle in, and since I had taught ESL for Newcomers to the US before, I decided to devote a few hours a week to help her find her voice.
Through these lessons, I learned just as much as I taught. Kholoud shared with me a glimpse of her world, her culture, and the challenges her family faced. I, in turn, showed her that she wasn’t alone.
This time became much more than a series of language lessons. It built a sense of trust and friendship. I learned valuable life lessons, from understanding the strength it takes to rebuild a life in a foreign country to appreciating the universal struggles of parenthood (yes, the mom look is universal!). What started as a simple language lesson transformed into a friendship that will last a lifetime.
Building Confidence and Belonging Through English Lessons
To me learning is more than the memorization of multiplication tables and grammar rules. My philosophy for learning English is building confidence, finding your voice, and helping you feel at home in a new culture. These are some of the key building blocks my students, like Kholoud, have found most important to establish:
1. Creating a Safe Space
We strive to create a sanctuary where our students are able to ask questions, make mistakes, and navigate how to most authentically express themselves. By creating this sense of safety our students are able to gain confidence in their language skills and navigate their new culture. In the past we have helped guide students through things like filling out medical forms, finding doctors and navigating phone trees. Everyone gets frustrated and confused by them.
2. Cultural Understanding
At Lori’s Language Lab we embrace the exploration of culture. For example, when building my relationship with Kholoud, I was not only able to teach her things about the United States and Texas like football and bar-b-que but was able to learn about the Muslim culture she grew up in.
How To Make a Difference
Navigating life in a new country is hard, but remember that every small step in your journey is a step towards finding your authentic you.
Be Patient and Compassionate: Learning a new language can feel overwhelming. Celebrate small victories and be supportive.
Engage in Cultural Exchange: Be open to sharing about your culture. A mutual exchange builds trust and will open up new possibilities.
If you know someone who would like to improve their English, we would love to help! Schedule a time that works for you to have a chat. I can’t wait to meet new friends and help create connections that truly make a difference.
