Perfect bilingualism for your child: is it possible?

Acquiring two “first” languages is as natural for young children as learning just one! It is indeed quite normal for children to learn two or more languages from birth.

In order to help your child develop proficiency in both official languages, it will be important to speak to him or her in each language during at least 30% of their time awake.

Interaction with other speakers is essential. It should be noted that listening to radio or television programs is supportive, but by no means sufficient.

Are you familiar with the different types of bilingualism?

“Simultaneous early bilingualism” is when you speak French to your child from birth and they are also exposed to English. In this case, they will learn both languages at the same time. This is called strong bilingualism or additive bilingualism.

“Successive early bilingualism,” on the other hand, occurs when the child is exposed first to one language and then, later, to a second language, even if it’s quite early in childhood. Their level of bilingualism will be just as good, but they will have to be given time to learn the second language, since they will have started learning it a little later.

Young children are known to be true geniuses when it comes to the ability of their brains to adapt. They easily reproduce different sounds, allowing them to learn to speak different languages quickly and without an accent. Paying particular attention to the preschool period, which is conducive to learning, will give them the best chance to succeed.

In addition, several studies show that children who speak more than one language have several cognitive advantages. They have a better capacity for attention and creative thinking than monolingual children.

Would you like to know how to ensure that your young child develops a strong level of bilingualism?

Visit the 1 enfant, 2 langues mini-website to access information, resources, and advice.