Parents who are looking at a Thailand International School often ask the same question: if my child studies in English most of the day, will they still be able to read and write Thai? The same question comes up for parents considering ASB. This article explains how Thai is usually taught at a Thailand International School, what the risks are, and what families can do at home.

Does Thailand International School Teach Thai?

In most cases, yes. Each Thailand International School that is licensed by the Ministry of Education is generally required to offer Thai language and Thai culture classes to students who hold Thai nationality. How many classes are offered, and how advanced they are, differs from one Thailand International School to another. Thai classes are often a few periods a week, which is usually fewer than at a regular Thai school. As a result, a child’s Thai gets less practice at school than their English does.

ASB is licensed by the Ministry of Education and uses an American curriculum. Its students come from many countries, including Thailand. Details such as how many Thai classes there are in each grade, what the classes cover, and how students are grouped by skill level can change over time. It is best to ask the admissions office or visit the school to see a current timetable, just as you would with any Thailand International School.

Will Thai Children Lose Their Mother Tongue at a Thailand International School?

It can happen, but it does not happen to every child. Studies on bilingual children suggest that a language weakens when it is used less often. Reading and writing are usually affected most, because they need regular practice. A child at a Thailand International School may speak Thai well in daily life but find that harder vocabulary, essay writing, or Thai expressions are weaker than those of children at Thai schools.

School is only one factor. How much Thai a child hears and uses at home, and with family and friends, also matters a great deal. Children who use Thai regularly are more likely to keep it as they grow up, whether they attend ASB or another Thailand International School.

How to Support Thai for Children at ASB or Any Thailand International School

A simple first step is to speak Thai at home most of the time, so your child uses it every day. Reading Thai books together, such as picture books or stories for young readers, can also help. Letting your child choose the books makes reading more enjoyable. Writing practice can be simple too, such as a short diary entry about the day or a card to a relative.

Cultural activities can help as well. Festivals, temple visits, markets, and trips to see family give children a reason to use Thai in real situations. If your child’s reading or writing starts to fall behind, some families add Thai tutoring once or twice a week, especially in higher grades when the schoolwork becomes harder. Families with children at a Thailand International School often find that a steady routine works better than occasional intensive study.

What to Ask Before Choosing a Thailand International School

Before you enroll your child, it helps to ask each Thailand International School a few clear questions. How many Thai classes are there per week in your child’s grade? Are students grouped by Thai skill level? Does the school offer extra Thai support for children whose Thai is weaker? Asking these questions at ASB or any other Thailand International School gives you a clear picture of how much Thai your child will study.

Most Thai students at a Thailand International School do study Thai, but usually for fewer hours than at a regular Thai school. Without regular practice, reading and writing skills may weaken over time. Parents interested in ASB can ask the school about its Thai class schedule and then support Thai at home through reading, writing, and everyday conversation. With steady practice, children at any Thailand International School can develop strong skills in both languages.