Insight or Perspective: What is the problem with Greek language learning in Australia?

·

By Eleni Elefterias

What do you think is the problem with Greek language learning in Australia and do you have a solution?

Today I speak with another Australian born mother and recent grandmother, Christine Gazepis Stravropoulos of the Athenia Association and the Dionysus Theatre group.

Christine says “It takes a concerted effort. I only spoke Greek to my children when they were young.”

Her daughter Amanda, a new mum herself, interrupts to say “we learnt a lot from Yiayia and Pappou.” 

“Yes but these days most grandparents may not speak Greek very well themselves,” Christine continues.

Did you go to Greek school?

“Yes and my experiences at the local Church school were not good so I employed a tutor for my children.”

Is that the best way for children to learn Greek?

“I think children need consistency and dedicated effort from their parents and grandparents, Many are from mixed marriages so it complicates things. Children need to be taken to the theatre, to music events and to Greek school. In fact, I have learnt more Greek in the last 10 years from my involvement in the Greek community and the theatre.”

Christine has a good point, language without a context does not work. Children need to have a connection with something Greek, be it a children’s dancing group, a Greek school where they can make friends, or a children’s theatre or Drama Group.

An excellent Drama program for children is available at the Hellenic Theatre at Addison Road run by director Steve Economidis and his talented troupe. Singing and music is also a great way to help with pronunciation of Greek words. Listening to Greek songs and watching Greek movies on Youtube from a young age are all good activities.

However, reading to children in Greek from a young age is probably the best way to increase their vocabulary and understanding in context.

If you have young children or grandchildren, or an interest in learning Greek, you are all invited to the launch of my children’s book and song, a free event at Pratten Park Bowling Club Ashfield on Saturday March 20th from 2 to 5pm. Free games, music and refreshments for the kids. 

*Eleni Elefterias-Kostakidis is a teacher of Modern Greek and University lecturer. Read her column ‘Insight or Perspective’ in Greek, every Saturday in The Greek Herald’s print edition or get your subscription here.

greek film festival sydney new

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Sydney Olympic at a crossroads: Damon Hanlin on Belmore, finances and the future

As construction threatens its home, Sydney Olympic enters a new era - chasing stability, respect and results on the national stage.

Cypriot community gathers in Sydney to mark 65 years of the Republic of Cyprus

The Cyprus Community of NSW hosted a special commemoration on Sunday, marking 65 years since the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus.

Sydney’s Lemnian community marks 113 years since the liberation of Lemnos

The Lemnian Association of Sydney and New South Wales “Maroula” marked the 113th anniversary of the liberation of Lemnos.

Pan-Macedonian Association marks 42 years of Dimitria Festival in Sydney

With full formality, the Macedonian celebrations “Dimitria” began on Sunday, October 5, 2025. This year marks the 42nd consecutive year.

Australian Embassy in Athens hosts book launch on Australia’s first Greek female settler

The Australian Embassy in Athens hosted the launch of Η Πρώτη Έποικος (The First Settler) on Wednesday, 1 October 2025.

You May Also Like

North Macedonia and Albania strengthen relations as they pursue joining EU

During the Albanian Prime Minister’s visit, the two countries signed cooperation deals on energy and infrastructure projects.

Fairfield’s Greek Amphitheatre Granted Heritage Protection

In a big win for Melbourne’s community, this week saw Victoria’s Heritage Council grant protection to Melbourne’s Amphitheatre at Fairfield

‘We are here to stay’: Vibrant Greek Festival transforms Darling Harbour in Sydney

Sydney’s 43rd Greek Festival transformed Darling Harbour into a vibrant celebration of Greek heritage over the weekend of February 22-23