Five Truths About Bilingualism and Dual Language Education in Early Childhood
Myth: "My child will be confused by a second language or it might cause a delay in acquiring his first language."
Truth: Research shows that bilingual children acquire the same proficiency in two languages as monolingual children do in one, even though they have less exposure to the languages. Young children do not develop proficiency in their first language until late-elementary school, thus it is the perfect time to introduce a second language. The young brain is able to absorb both languages simultaneously. The younger you introduce your child to a second language, the better!
Myth: "It will take too much time and energy for my child to be exposed to a second language."
Truth: There are many opportunities to engage your child in learning a second language. Research recommends that the second language be introduced at a similar rate and consistency as the first. You might consider a dual-language or immersion preschool program for your child, or consider taking up a new language with your child to learn and speak as a family. Although it won't lead to complete bilingualism, it could also be helpful to teach your child vocabulary for familiar words and phrases in a new language. Read books in a new language together. Have fun with it!
Myth: "My child is too young to pick up another language."
Truth: Research is varied on this, but many believe that the younger a child is introduced to a second language, the better. Learning a second language from a young age is as cognitively simple as learning the first. Early learning especially helps children with their pronunciation in speaking a second language, as their first language is still not fully developed. Some experts say that children lose the ability to hear and repeat linguistic differences in other languages by the time they are around 12 years old.
Myth: "My child has enough trouble speaking one language."
Truth: Language development in early childhood spans the first 8 years of life (at least). Even proficient, English-speaking children may continue to use unconventional grammar, syntax, or verb tense after that. No matter the linguistic issue, any child can learn a second language. But, if you have concerns about your child's specific case, don't hesitate to talk with your pediatrician.
Myth: "Being bilingual doesn't give my child an advantage."
- Bilingual children are better able to focus their attention on relevant information and ignore distractions (7, 8). For more information, click here for our article “Are Two Languages Better Than One?”.
- Bilingual individuals have been shown to be more creative and better at planning and solving complex problems than monolinguals (9, 10).
- The effects of aging on the brain are diminished among bilingual adults (7).
- In one study, the onset of dementia was delayed by 4 years in bilinguals compared to monolinguals with dementia (10).
- Bilingual individuals have greater access to people and resources (9).
- In Canada, employment rates are higher for French/English bilinguals than monolinguals (7).
- Canadians who speak both official languages have a median income nearly 10% higher than that of those who speak English only, and 40% higher than that of those who speak French only (7).
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Happy learning!
The Prepped Parent
