Deep Dive into Bilingualism: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents

Introduction: Beyond the Basics of Bilingualism

As parents, we aspire to provide our children with tools that not only enrich their lives but also broaden their horizons. One such tool, and perhaps among the most transformative, is the gift of bilingualism.

While introducing a second language to a child is an adventure filled with its unique set of joys and challenges, the journey becomes even more profound when we dive deeper, going beyond surface-level introductions and truly immersing ourselves in the linguistic and cultural intricacies of bilingualism.

This blog post isn't just another beginner's guide to raising a bilingual child; it's a voyage into the heart of bilingual education.

For families who have tasted the initial delights of introducing a new language to their little ones and are craving more - a more comprehensive, research-backed, and immersive approach - you're in the right place.

Together, we'll navigate the deeper waters of bilingualism, exploring strategies, techniques, and insights rooted in both personal experience and academic research.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. Understanding Bilingualism: The Foundation

   • Techniques to Consider

   • How Children Learn

3. Crafting Your Bilingual Blueprint: The Strategy

   • Family Language Learning Plan

   • Setting Goals and Gathering Resources

4. Getting Your Bilingual Journey in Motion

   • Inspiration

   • Music, Tech, and Media Insights

   • The primary keys of success

5. Creating a Bilingual Atmosphere That Fosters Immersion

   • Creating a Language-rich Environment

   • Embracing Culture, History, and Art

   • Everyday Scheduling

6. Expert Insights

7. Conclusion

8. Join the Conversation

2. Understanding Bilingualism to Lay a Strong Foundation

Bilingualism isn't just about knowing how to say things two different ways. It's an intricate dance of brain processes and cultural appreciation. And thankfully, there is more than one way to go about it so you can choose what resonates with you and your little ones. I share with you these different approaches and techniques with the intention to empower you so the journey is as thrilling and rewarding for you as it is your children.

Techniques to Consider:

• One Parent, One Language (OPOL): This is one of the most popular methods amongst bilingual+ families. In this approach, each parent consistently speaks a different language to the child. For example, Mom might speak English while Dad speaks Spanish. It provides clear linguistic boundaries, ensuring the child gets consistent exposure to both languages. This method is especially suited for families where each parent is a native or fluent speaker of a different language. But remember, bilingualism has myriad shades. Even if you're not a 'perfect' speaker, every bit of exposure counts. As we at TA-DA! emphasize, cherish the journey and celebrate every small victory in language learning. It’s about enjoying the ride!

• Minority Language at Home (ML@H): As the name suggests, in this approach, the family chooses to speak the minority language exclusively at home, while the community or majority language is used outside. This technique aims to balance out the exposure to the majority language that the child might receive at school or in social settings. It's ideal for families living in a country where the language spoken at home is different from the community language. An important note: children mixing languages within a sentence or conversation is not confusion but a sign of their multilingual adaptability known as code-switching. (Learn more on the fascinating topic of code switching below!)

• Time Segmentation: Some families adopt a strategy where certain times or days are designated for specific languages. For example, weekends might be reserved for Spanish, while weekdays are dedicated to English. This method offers flexibility and can be tailored to a family’s schedule.

• Language Ecosystem Approach: Here, different activities or settings are associated with different languages. A child might learn to cook in Italian with grandma, read books in English, and watch cartoons in French. This situational approach associates languages with fun, distinct memories, and experiences.

• Bilingual Education or Immersion Programs: These are formal educational settings where instruction is provided in two languages. For example, half of the school day might be taught in English and the other half in French. This is an excellent choice for families who want to ensure their child gets systematic instruction in both languages - but also, children are given the priceless opportunity of absorbing cultural contexts, values, and histories, fostering empathy and broadening horizons.

• Community-Driven Learning: Beyond traditional classroom techniques, engaging with language communities can be a game-changer. Whether it's bilingual book clubs, language exchange meetups, or online forums, they offer real-world interactions and shared experiences that textbooks often miss.

• A Modern Movement: The Role of Non-Natives: There's an uplifting trend in the world of bilingualism: the rise of non-native parents confidently imparting a second or third language to their children. Gone are the days when only native speakers were deemed 'qualified' to teach a language. Passion, commitment, and the right resources now empower parents of all linguistic backgrounds to step into the arena of bilingual education. At TA-DA!, we wholeheartedly endorse this movement, as it mirrors our personal journey with one of our family languages.

As we embark on our 20-day community blogathon, anticipate a rich variety of insights from diverse experts on the above techniques and more. We'll delve into the dynamics of non-native teaching, share very personal stories injecting what we did wrong (so you’re sure not to repeat our blunders!), debunk myths, and offer actionable advice to nurture a multilingual household.

Let’s look closer at the very special needs of our children.

How Children Learn

I often hear, “Kids are like sponges.” And while there’s much truth to that when it comes to language learning, there are many caveats I’d like to briefly touch on together.

Imagine you, an adult, you’re using a fantastic language app like Duolingo or Elsa and you’re seeing progress. You set daily reminders, gamify the learning, and meticulously memorize vocabulary. Now, contrast this with your child who listens to a song in another language and belts out the lyrics, mispronounced words and all, with unparalleled gusto.

There’s a fundamental difference in how you both approach language – and therein lies the magic! Understanding this distinction is crucial to ensure we meet their unique needs and keep the learning process positive and joy-filled.

My son is learning Spanish on Duolingo at age 9 - and even at this later age, I see him struggling navigating the app, not to mention experiencing reduced confidence. Let me emphasize this strongly: kids have different needs than what most apps offer when it comes to language learning.

As you embark on the adventure of introducing your child to a new language, bear in mind these essential considerations. They'll prove more valuable than any material investment in their language journey.

• The Science Bit: Children's brains are structurally different from adults'. Their neurons are constantly forming new connections, making them particularly receptive to new languages. This neuroplasticity allows kids to absorb languages in an immersive, organic way. While adults often rely on explicit memory – consciously recalling facts or events (like memorizing vocabulary) – children utilize implicit memory, which operates unconsciously (like riding a bike).

• Immersion Over Instruction: A child doesn’t need to know the grammatical intricacies of a past participle to use it correctly. They'll naturally pick it up when surrounded by native speakers, be it at a neighborhood playdate, in a song, or during a festive celebration. The language becomes a living, breathing entity, not a series of flashcards. (Although they are a fab tool in your toolbox!!)

• Learning Through Play: You can't hand a child a textbook and expect wonders. But give them a toy, a game, or a storybook in another language, and you'll see their eyes light up with curiosity. The very act of playing becomes an educational experience, sans the pressure.

• Context is King: Remember the first time your child pointed at a bird and called it a "bird"? They didn’t do so because they memorized it, but because they associated the word with the creature. Contextual learning, where vocabulary is associated with actions, emotions, or objects, is pivotal. So, the next time they exclaim "agua!" when they're thirsty, know that they're connecting dots, creating linguistic context from their surroundings.

• The Joy of Repetition: Heard the same song 20 times today? Children love and thrive on repetition. It reinforces their learning, and while it might seem monotonous to adults, for kids, it's a fun, comforting routine.

• Motivation Matters: Remember the pride in your child’s eyes when they uttered their first word in a second language? That intrinsic motivation, the joy of being understood, is a powerful driver. Cheer them on, celebrate the small victories, and you'll find them eager to learn more.

In essence, children's language learning transcends structured lessons and flawless pronunciation. It's anchored in immersion, engagement, and above all, joy. Reflect on your own childhood memories. Which lessons left the most profound mark? Often, they were the ones where your natural enthusiasm and passion shone through. That intrinsic desire to excel and enjoy the process is universal. By embedding these principles into your child's language journey, not only will they revel in the experience, but their joy will inevitably pave the way for success.

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Propelling the Voice of Science: Fascinating Insights from this section:

Code-Switching: A Sign of Linguistic Agility

The phenomenon of code-switching has long intrigued linguists, educators, and psychologists. Some key points based on research include:

1. Cognitive Benefits: Contrary to the outdated belief that code-switching might indicate confusion, recent studies suggest that it requires a great deal of cognitive flexibility. It involves actively choosing the right word or phrase from one language while suppressing the competing words from another. This mental juggling act can enhance executive functions, such as attention, problem-solving, and multitasking.

   Reference: Bialystok, E., & Viswanathan, M. (2009). Components of executive control with advantages for bilingual children in two cultures. Cognition, 112(3), 494-500.

2. Sociolinguistic Reasons: Code-switching isn't just about linguistic proficiency; it's also about the social and communicative context. Multilinguals often code-switch to better convey a sentiment, use a phrase that doesn't have a direct translation, or connect on a cultural level with the listener.

   Reference: Poplack, S. (1980). Sometimes I'll start a sentence in Spanish Y TERMINO EN ESPAÑOL: toward a typology of code-switching. Linguistics, 18(7-8), 581-618.

3. Language Development in Children: Bilingual children might code-switch more frequently than adults, especially when they are in the early stages of language acquisition. This doesn't indicate confusion. Instead, they are drawing on all their linguistic resources to express themselves. As they become more proficient, they'll develop a deeper understanding of when and how to code-switch appropriately.

   Reference: Genesee, F., Paradis, J., & Crago, M. B. (2004). Dual language development & disorders: A handbook on bilingualism & second language learning. Paul H Brookes Publishing.

4. Natural Occurrence: Virtually all proficient bilinguals engage in code-switching, especially in informal settings. It's a natural part of bilingual communication and showcases a speaker's ability to navigate between different linguistic systems seamlessly.

   Reference: Gumperz, J. J., & Hernandez-Chavez, E. (1972). Bilingualism, bidialectalism, and classroom interaction. In C.B. Cazden, V.P. John, & D. Hymes (Eds.), Functions of language in the classroom (pp. 84-108). New York: Teachers College Press.

By understanding and celebrating code-switching, we can better appreciate the rich, dynamic nature of bilingual communication and recognize it as a sign of linguistic adaptability rather than confusion.

Transient Language Memory in Children:

1. Critical Period Hypothesis: One of the most discussed theories in language acquisition is the Critical Period Hypothesis. It proposes that there's a window of time (usually up to late childhood or early adolescence) during which the brain is most receptive to language learning. During this period, children can absorb languages effortlessly. However, if the exposure is limited and not reinforced beyond this period, the proficiency might wane.

2. Use It or Lose It: Our brain operates on a fundamental principle: neural pathways that are frequently used get strengthened, while those that aren't weaken over time. Children, with their high neuroplasticity, form numerous connections rapidly. But if a child learns a language between 2-6 and then doesn't use it, the neural connections associated with that language may weaken or even be pruned away in favor of other, more frequently used pathways.

3. Depth of Acquisition: While children might pick up a language quickly in their early years, the depth of their acquisition can vary. A child exposed to a language in a limited context (say, only at home or in a preschool) might not have as deep an acquisition as one immersed in varied environments (interacting with native speakers, cultural events, media in that language). If the foundation isn't deep-rooted, the chance of retaining the language diminishes.

4. Emotional and Social Factors: Language isn't just cognitive; it's deeply intertwined with our emotions and social identity. If a child feels more connected to the cultural or social aspects of one language over another, they might unconsciously favor it. Alternatively, if they associate negative emotions with a language (for example, feeling left out or different), they might resist it or even 'forget' it faster.

5. Relearning is Quicker: An interesting observation is that while a child might appear to have forgotten a language, relearning it later in life often occurs at a faster pace. This suggests that some neural traces of the language remain and can be reactivated with exposure.

6. Overlapping Languages: If a child learns two languages that are structurally or phonetically similar and then stops using one, the dominant language can overshadow the other. This can give the appearance of forgetting, but it might be more of a suppression of one language by another.

In conclusion, while children have an astonishing capacity to learn languages, the retention and depth of that acquisition are influenced by numerous factors. The key to long-term language retention, even if there's a hiatus, is a combination of deep, varied exposure and positive emotional associations. Ensuring that a child's experience with a language is rich, meaningful, and joyful can go a long way in making the language stick, even if life takes them away from active use for a while.

Further reading:

Research Papers & Journals:

• Lenneberg, E. H. (1967). Biological Foundations of Language. New York: Wiley. This book details the Critical Period Hypothesis.

• Newport, E. L., Bavelier, D., & Neville, H. J. (2001). Critical thinking about critical periods: Perspectives on a critical period for language acquisition. In E. Dupoux (Ed.), Language, brain, and cognitive development: Essays in honor of Jacques Mehler (pp. 481-502). MIT Press. This paper re-examines the Critical Period Hypothesis in light of new research.

• Pallier, C., Dehaene, S., Poline, J. B., LeBihan, D., Argenti, A. M., Dupoux, E., & Mehler, J. (2003). Brain imaging of language plasticity in adopted adults: Can a second language replace the first?. Cerebral Cortex, 13(2), 155-161. This research delves into the effects of early exposure and then loss of a language.

  
  Books:

• Bialystok, E., & Hakuta, K. (1994). In other words: The science and psychology of second language acquisition. New York: Basic Books. A comprehensive overview of bilingualism, its cognitive effects, and the science behind second language acquisition.

• Kuhl, P. K. (2010). Brain mechanisms in early language acquisition. Neuron, 67(5), 713-727. This offers a deep dive into the neuroscience behind early language acquisition.

  
  Web Resources:

• The Linguistic Society of America offers an FAQ on the critical period of language acquisition, providing an accessible overview of the concept.

• The Bilingualism Matters Research Centre at the University of Edinburgh is an excellent resource for the latest research and practical advice on bilingualism.

• TED Talk: Patricia K. Kuhl: The linguistic genius of babies. In this talk, Kuhl, a renowned expert on early language and brain development, discusses how young children learn languages.

  
  Organizations:

• Center for Applied Linguistics (CAL): A leading resource in the applied linguistics community, CAL often publishes papers and articles related to bilingualism and language acquisition. Their website is a treasure trove of resources.
  
  
  
  

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3. Crafting Your Bilingual Blueprint: Your Family Strategy

As with any significant undertaking, your journey towards raising a bilingual child is most successful when approached with a clear strategy. Think of it as constructing a house: before you lay the first brick, you'd want a well-thought-out blueprint, right?

Here’s how you can craft your unique bilingual blueprint:

First Questions & Considerations When Creating Your Family’s Language Learning Plan:

1. Assessment of Current Situation: Begin by assessing where you currently stand. What languages do family members speak? How often is your child exposed to each language? Are there relatives or friends who could be a part of this bilingual journey?

2. Determine Your 'Why': Understanding why you want your child to be bilingual is crucial. Is it for cultural and heritage preservation? For cognitive benefits? Career opportunities in the future? Your 'why' will guide your strategy and keep you motivated.

3. Allocate Roles: Decide who will speak what language and when. This could be based on the OPOL method, ML@H, or a mix, depending on your family’s linguistic landscape.

4. Establish a Routine: Consistency is key. Perhaps mornings are dedicated to one language, and evenings to another. Or weekdays are for the majority language, and weekends for the minority one. Find what fits your family's schedule.

5. Incorporate Language into Daily Activities: From mealtime to bedtime, find ways to weave the language into everyday tasks. This provides a natural and contextual environment for learning.

Setting Your Goals and Gathering Resources:

Once you’ve laid the groundwork for your family’s strategy, it’s then time to gather your gardening tools - and plant your preferred seeds!

• Short-term vs. Long-term Goals: Set clear milestones. A short-term goal could be learning a certain number of words or phrases in a month. A long-term goal might be achieving fluency or near-fluency by a certain age.

• Selecting Resources: In today's digital landscape, there's a vast array of language resources at our fingertips. However, the majority are screen-based, which may not always be the ideal medium for young learners. When introducing languages to children, it's essential to choose resources that foster interaction and hands-on experiences. Such methods not only enhance retention but also make the learning journey memorable. (For non-native speaking parents in particular, the challenge intensifies. How do you find resources that encapsulate the authentic sounds of a language without relying on screens? This very conundrum fueled the inception of TA-DA! Language Productions. We will explore solutions to this in particular throughout our 20-day blogging journey.)

• Connect with Communities: Join bilingual parent communities or groups. These can be a treasure trove of experiences, tips, and resources. Plus, it’s always helpful to have a support system on this journey.

• Anticipate and Prepare for Challenges: There will be phases of resistance or plateau in language learning. That's natural. Preparing for these challenges in advance and having strategies to overcome them can make the journey smoother.

Remember, your family's bilingual journey is a dynamic process, and it's okay to adjust your strategy as you go. The most important element is the commitment to creating an enriching multilingual environment. With the right blueprint, you can ensure your child not only learns two languages but truly lives them.

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Getting Your Child’s Bilingual Journey in Motion

The moment is finally here. It’s time to start growing some flowers - and taking in their beauty!

Becoming bilingual is a journey that goes beyond structured lessons or classroom walls. It's about making language learning a consistent part of the everyday landscape. Here's how you can seamlessly integrate it into daily life:

Inspiration:

1. Device Language Rotation: One simple but effective strategy is to switch the language settings on your child's devices. Rotate between the two languages every week or so. It’s a subtle immersion technique that integrates language learning into tech time.

   For instance in my home we use both Siri and Alexa religiously. Both sound just likes natives and help us navigate not only language, but homework, temperature and weight conversions, music playlists and so-much more. Alexa in particular is truly like a member of our family (so much I’ve heard my son tell her he loved her!). She enlightens us on dinosaurs, holiday music, cars, legos and even songs on gummy bears, thanks to my son’s inquisitive mind and varied interests. Children need a reason to use the target language - and believe me, this bond can definitely do the trick!
   
   

2. Dual-Language Storytime: Read the same story in both languages. First in the native tongue and then in the second language. This not only reinforces vocabulary but also improves comprehension.

   Not a native speaker of the target language? I know the feeling - and it’s precisely why I started this company, TA-DA! Language Productions. We make talking books that bring the language to the entire family. We’re just getting started offering first up, smart, talking books in 5 different languages; but I have SO much on the agenda I hope to bring to you!
   
   

3. Language Day Themes: Dedicate specific days of the week to the target language. For instance, "Spanish Saturdays" or "French Fridays" can make language practice a fun weekly ritual.
   
   Something that helps keep me organized is a large wall in the family kitchen (where we spend so much time). I painted it in chalkboard, plus magnet paint. Everyone can be on the same page, seeing exactly what language day it is, not to mention the other rituals I like to keep organized.
   
   

4. Bilingual Board Games: Games like Scrabble, Pictionary, or Monopoly come in bilingual editions. They make learning interactive and playful! Not to mention created memories with you they’ll cherish a lifetime.
   
   I designed TA-DA!’s Children’s Talking Dictionary to be able to be placed somewhat like a board game. I love hearing the joy it brings to homes and classrooms! More on that to come!
   

Music, Tech, and Media Insights:

• Sing Along: Music is a universal language and key to all things children’s language learning. Singing along to bilingual songs can boost vocabulary, pronunciation, and rhythm.

  The importance of music is why I was persistent in tracking down music legend Rafa Sardina to make our music at TA-DA!. It affords kids a richer, more engaging experience they absolutely relish. Read my startup story here.
  
  

• Tech Tools that Talk: Use technology to your advantage. Interactive apps or devices that respond in the chosen language can be both educational and entertaining.

  As a non-native in two of my sons three languages, I personally am always on then hunt for anything well made that talks. So far that quest has yielded a handful of cherished accessories in our home, like storytellers (we love Lunii) and Tiptoi books with pens, although we lose that pen much more than it seems to be found. (Another reason I opted for smart talking books that respond to finger touch when I launched TA-DA!…)
  
  

  Our current 20-day Blogathon will shed lots of light - from a variety of doting multilingual parents (and experts) living all over the world.

  I care deeply about making this easy and fun for you. Please email us if you are not seeing what you need here; have specific requests.
  
  

• Bilingual Media Consumption: Encourage watching cartoons or reading e-books in the target language. Over time, as comprehension improves, move on to more complex content.

  Much like sugar, I notice a distinct difference in my son’s behavior with too much screen time, so I limit it. I had my husband put a daily timer on his devices to minimize the fuss. That being said, when I offer TV time, I want it to count. He knows it’s either for Homer Reading or exposure to the less frequent language in our house. There’s no discussion. I otherwise love Peppa the Pig episodes at the packaged-so-well-5-short-minutes-per-episode. It’s light and silly, for once actually child appropriate, and it is translated in more languages than anything I know. It’s my hands down favorite - his too.

Keys of Success:

Matthew Youlden, a renowned polyglot, demystifies language learning and its joy at a TEDx event

• Daily Doses: Just like vitamins, a daily dose of the target language is beneficial. Even if it's just 10 minutes of reading, speaking, or listening, the key is regular exposure.

  I love this TED talk here at right. This linguist - an all around friendly fella who speaks an ungodly amount of different languages - suggests a magic daily number of 30 minutes, and if you keep that up in as little as one month, he says you’ll already be able to navigate your way ‘round the language. (Whoo hoo! How lovely does that sound?!)

• Gamify the Process: Turn language learning into a game! Set challenges, reward milestones, and celebrate achievements. Life is so short. Let’s make it fun - and enjoy the ride!

• Field Trips: Visits to cultural centers, festivals, or even restaurants can immerse children in the language and culture, making learning tangible and fun. Be creative. Think outside the box. We’ll be helping show you the plethora of community treasures for language learning that often go undetected…

In essence, the path to bilingualism is an adventure—one that's both educational and enjoyable. By incorporating these actionable strategies into everyday life, you're not just teaching words and grammar, but nurturing a genuine love for languages. Remember, consistency is your friend, and fun is the secret ingredient that will keep your child curious and engaged - and so much more. I hope you come to enjoy languages as much as my family and I do!

Are you up for the CHALLENGE
???

Accept the challenge (and let’s have some fun!). Dedicate 30 minutes a day to your language journey and see the transformation in just a month. Download a PDF of this planner here.

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4.Creating an Atmosphere that Fosters Immersion

Achieving bilingualism goes beyond just mastering words and phrases. It’s about immersing oneself in a whole new world of sounds, expressions, traditions, and histories. Let’s delve into the ways you can foster a genuinely bilingual home environment:

Creating a Language-Rich Environment:

• Labels Everywhere: One effective technique is to label household items in both languages. Whether it's the fridge, the couch, or a toy, having visual cues around can reinforce vocabulary learning - big time.
  
  For all you Type A Personalities out there, might I suggest one room at a time? Believe me, it is worth it!
  

• Bilingual Books: Invest in bilingual storybooks. Reading is a powerful tool, and having stories in both languages fosters parallel linguistic development. We’ll go into all these resources in much more depth during TA-DA!’s blogathon.

• Language Journals: Encourage your child to keep a daily language journal where they can jot down new words, phrases, or even drawings related to their language learning.

  I’ve had so many students resist this - and then later tell me once they caved in, they could have kicked themselves in the foot for not having done it sooner!
  

• Interactive Language Tools: Products like TA-DA! Language Productions' Talking Books and Posters provide hands-on play and exploration, bridging the gap between traditional learning and immersive experiences.

  
  20 years of teaching on 4 continents inspired every little detail that went into this profound labor of love, TA-DA! Language Productions. I hope you’ll give these very special creations a try. They’re great gifts too. Your support helps us bring you so much more…including a Spanish Talking Dictionary, completed and wrapped with a big red blow by UNAM (Mexico) - and one of the most accoladed music makers of ALL time. Once we have the funds to print, it will be next to make its grand debut. I cannot wait to share it with you!

Embracing Culture, History, and Art:

• Cultural Celebrations: Introduce your child to festivals, holidays, and traditions of the language they're learning. This provides context to the words they're absorbing.

• Artistic Expression: Dive into the art and music of the region. Paintings, sculptures, and songs tell stories, encapsulating the emotions and history of a culture. Check local museums to see if your target language and culture has any upcoming shows. Same with cinemas and theatres.

• Kitchen Adventures: Cook traditional dishes together. Food is a universal language and cooking provides tactile and gustatory experiences, deepening the connection with the language.

  
  I cannot wait to show you more of our kitchen in the upcoming weeks and months! Like music, food is essential for children’s language learning.
  

• Language Treks: Organize family "language treks" where you virtually or physically visit places that speak the target language. This can be as simple as a visit to a local cultural hub or restaurant. Again, 👀 TA-DA! 20-Day Blogathon!

Everyday Scheduling:

And finally, for today, I wanted to give you one sampling of what a day could look like. If this is helpful, let me know, as I have ideas oozing out of me, and would be delighted to share them with you.

7:00 AM - Wake up to an alarm clock speaking the target language starts them off on the right foot!

8:00 AM - Breakfast with kitchen labeled items on the table. Discuss what you’re eating in both languages.

Both as a mom - and as a teacher, I’m sure my kids will never forget our flashcard bliss. I am so adamant about vocabulary, I would absorb the cost and print out their flashcards myself - each and every week. My request - rotate them weekly and keep them on the breakfast table in a basket. It’s so easy to absorb them in this setting - not to mention ensures you share another meal at the table together. This is family bonding - and learning - at its finest! And the benefits are TREMENDOUS!

9:30 AM - Bilingual storytime. Alternate between languages every other day.

I keep bookshelves with all our languages separated. I know some experts advocate mixing the books, but I find it easier when we’re on a set day to ensure I have what he’s in the mood for at a finger’s reach. Books are key to bilingual success. I cannot stress this enough. Every successful bilingual family I know travels with an extra suitcase to ensure they have an excellent library!

12:00 PM - Lunch with a song or short cartoon episode in the second language. (Enter Peppa the Pig.)

3:00 PM - Playtime with bilingual toys or a quick game testing vocabulary. (We’ll talk about stocking a bilingual house in the coming weeks.)

5:00 PM - Cooking time. Prepare a simple dish from the culture associated with the language you’re learning. (I can’t wait to share my favorite international cookbooks - for kids!)

7:00 PM - Evening wind down with a short reading or drawing related to the language in the journal. Calming music pairs oh-so well in this endeavor. We also light candles (great vocabulary) - and listen to stories on our various story devices.

By setting up ahead of time - and fostering a multilingual atmosphere - you're setting the stage for organic language acquisition. It's more than just lessons; it's a lifestyle. And in this vibrant, language-rich environment, children don’t just learn—they thrive.

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Your Questions - and Answers - With Expert Insights: A 20-Day Dive into the World of Bilingualism

We at TA-DA! Language Productions aren't just passionate about language learning; we live and breathe it!

Grounded in our vision of making bilingualism both joyful and accessible, we're thrilled to launch our 20-day community blogathon. This series epitomizes our dedication to revolutionizing language education for children, merging play, music, art, and language in a harmonious dance of learning.

Over the next 20 days, our vibrant community of educators, artists, musicians, and cultural aficionados will share their knowledge, experiences, and actionable insights. From teaching techniques, hands-on playful experiences, musical playlists from producers of the most prominent musical acts of our time, to deep dives into cultural nuances—this blogathon promises a comprehensive, immersive, and, most importantly, fun exploration into the realm of bilingualism.

Please share your experiences - and ask those questions!

I personally am quite private and sharing so much about my family does not come naturally to me. But I do in hopes that it inspires, because I truly believe, down to the fiber of my being, that if more kids grow up bilingual+ - we are closer to world peace and much greater understanding and acceptance.

I can be slow at social media and emails, but please write me, and write again if I do not respond. Each and every message is so important to me, and I‘d be delighted to support you. (And if I do not know the answer, I will reach out to someone in my network to assist!)

A Glimpse of What’s Next:

Today we’ve explored the foundational elements of setting up schedules and understanding how our children absorb new languages. But our journey into bilingualism doesn't end there. In fact, it only becomes richer and more multifaceted. Once we've established a rhythm and environment conducive to bilingual learning, the next challenge—and perhaps the most rewarding one—comes into play: helping our children truly comprehend and connect with the literature and stories in each language.

It's not just about them being able to read words in both languages; it's about ensuring they can immerse themselves into the worlds these words create. This deep comprehension can be the gateway to 'full' multiliteracy. This means not only understanding the literal meaning of words but also the cultural, emotional, and contextual layers beneath them.

Yoshito Darmon-Shimamori, an esteemed expert in reading literacy for multilinguals, brings forth an enlightening perspective on this very topic.

Join the Conversation

Feel the pull to share? Please do! I cannot stress enough how vital it is. Startups won’t make it without support, and we would love to keep bringing you all of these incredible resources. Are they helping you? Want more? Want different? Please drop a comment below. We’d love to hear your questions - and adventures - in bilingual parenting.

If this blog resonated with you, spread the word. Let's amplify the dialogue, extend the community, and elevate the mission!