So You Want to Raise a Bilingual Child but Only Speak One Language…
by TA-DA! extra-special guest contributor, Amy Maan of 123 Petits Pas
Day 5 Infographic of the TA-DA! 20-day Blogathon, featuring expertise from Madame Amy of 123 Petits Pas on effective bilingual parenting
Are you interested in raising bilingual kids but feel a bit uncertain because you're a monolingual parent?
Don't worry! There is still so much you can do, and the earlier you start, the better!
But first…why would you want to raise a bilingual child?
Scientific studies have repeatedly shown that learning two or more languages can have incredible benefits for your child. It's like giving their brain a superpower!
Here are just SOME of the many advantages your little one can enjoy:
Enhanced Cognitive Abilities: Learning languages boosts brain function in many ways.
Sharper Focus: Bilingual kids often excel in tasks that require concentration.
Problem-Solving Skills: They’re often quick to think of solutions when tackling challenges.
Cultural Awareness: Learning a new language sparks curiosity about different cultures and traditions.
This knowledge can feel frustrating to parents who feel they don’t have the ability to introduce a second language… But I’m here to tell you that YOU CAN!
Amy and her family, all non-native French speakers, enjoying their recent trip to Paris
Here are a few ways to begin introducing another language to your child ASAP:
1. Books & Audio Books:
Books are a great support for parents introducing another language because the words are right there on the page and you don't have to worry about making mistakes. But how can you read if you don't speak the language?
Look for books that have audio
Look for books with recordings already made on YouTube
Use the google translate app to listen back to the words being spoken
2. Music & Repetition
Madame Amy serenading with guitar tunes as part of her interactive offerings through 123 Petits Pas
Find a music playlist in your target language and play it casually in the background. This is not so much for new vocabulary- it’s actually so that you & your child can start to pick up on those language-specific sounds and language patterns! For music that helps with vocabulary, you’ll want to find some educational children’s songs.
Repetition is key to language learning and music helps us learn far more quickly!
3. Technology
When it comes to introducing another language at home that you do not feel fully comfortable speaking yourself, technology is your friend!
Lucky for you, in today's tech-heavy world, language learning is always at your fingertips.
Catch a glimpse of Madame Amy in action, delivering engaging online French lessons
Watching French TV & movies is an incredible way to boost your vocabulary.
If you’re looking for a French recommendation for adults, I LOVE the reality show: “The Parisian Agency” on Netflix.
More of Amy doing her thing, proving that non-natives can also excel as language teachers
4. Enroll in Parent & Child Language Classes
While many language classes cater to adults or older kids, some are designed for young children and their parents to learn together. These classes offer a fantastic bonding experience and let you learn alongside your child.
For French learning, check out 123 Petits Pas Inc. www.123petitspas.com
5. Introduce Basic Vocabulary
Language learning doesn’t have to be a large daunting task!
Start small.
Introduce a few key words within your daily routines, and add on from there when you’re ready for more.
You’ll be much more likely to continue using the language if it’s done in a simple way, vs. trying to go full force into something that’s not realistic for you and your schedule.
6. Find a Support System
Madame Amy alongside a child and puppet—key elements that make her classes irresistibly engaging
One of the best things you can do is find yourself a community for support. Reach out to local groups online and see if anyone shares the same interest in raising bilingual children.
And if French is your language of choice? That community is here waiting for you at 123 Petits Pas.
Feel free to reach out if you need motivation or have any questions, I am here to help!
Madame Amy,
123 Petits Pas Inc.
Madame Amy spending quality time with one of her children, nurturing bilingualism at home
Looking for fun Halloween activities in French? Look no further!
Meet the Expert:
Amy Maan, or "Madame Amy", as her participants know her, is the owner of 123 Petits Pas Inc. where she teaches families with young children to learn French together through fun virutal classes and programming. She is also a mother of 2 and raises her young boys to speak French as their first language, despite it being her second language. She often shares tips and tricks with participants on how to raise bilingual children.
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Join our community, be a part of this linguistic celebration, and let's make the world of languages accessible, joyful, and utterly captivating for our children.
