Andriy Bednyakov's Approach to Language at Home
Showman and TV host Andriy Bednyakov has shared his personal journey of switching to the Ukrainian language and raising his children in it. He is raising his daughter Kseniya and son Ostap, with Kseniya having initially communicated in Russian, while Ostap knows Ukrainian and English. Bednyakov firmly believes that parents bear the responsibility for their children's linguistic upbringing.
Andriy Bednyakov, who previously spoke Russian, has made a conscious transition to Ukrainian over time. His personal shift reflects a broader cultural movement in Ukraine following the 2014 annexation of Crimea and the ongoing war. Now, his daughter Kseniya converses in Ukrainian, despite her earlier use of Russian. His son Ostap, in contrast, does not know Russian but is fluent in Ukrainian and English. Bednyakov admits he finds it difficult when Ostap interacts with Russian-speaking children and makes an effort to ensure his son uses Ukrainian.
'Kseniya used to speak Russian. But Ostap doesn't know Russian. Well, it drives me crazy when, unfortunately, there are those in kindergarten who speak Russian.' Andriy Bednyakov
He emphasizes the importance of speaking Ukrainian with children, considering the country's future. 'You need to speak Ukrainian with your children. You can take that however you want. You have to look at the perspective, in which country we live and what we want,' says Bednyakov. He is aware of his responsibility as a father and is prepared to do everything so his children continue to communicate in Ukrainian.
This parenting situation presents certain challenges for Bednyakov. He notes that he has tried to steer his son away from Russian-speaking peer groups, though it is not always possible. 'If I can lead Ostap away from Russian-speaking children, but we don't do that. If he's playing with a child—well, he's playing,' the showman adds. He believes it is crucial to maintain the Ukrainian language in communication with children, as it is his duty as a parent.
Language Trends in Ukrainian Parenting
Andriy Bednyakov's stance mirrors a widespread trend in Ukraine, where many parents are striving to raise their children in Ukrainian, particularly in the context of war and national identity. Language education is becoming a key aspect of shaping the cultural consciousness of new generations, highlighting the need for a deliberate approach to choosing the family's language of communication.
This conscious choice can also influence children's future integration into a society where the Ukrainian language is becoming increasingly significant.