Did you know that bilingualism is not only a skill, but an emotional and cognitive experience? Understanding how this process works from an early age helps families to support language learning effectively, both at home and in collaboration with the school.
As Raquel de la Torre, Early Years Coordinator at Engage International School, says:
“The essential thing is to teach from the heart to connect with children in a unique way”.
During the ‘Brunch and Talk’ event held at the school and on the @escuelacaperucitarosa podcast, Raquel unveiled the most common myths about bilingualism and shared valuable strategies to encourage language learning that we want to share in this post the stages of bilingualism and some tips for families to solve doubts and help their children in this natural process.
Stages of infant bilingualism
- 0-6 months: Receptive silence. The baby’s brain is absorbing everything, even if it doesn’t seem so.
- 6 months-1 year: Early production. Simple words like hello or bye.
- 1-2 years: Emergent speech. Mixing languages while developing language skills.
- Intermediate fluency: Beginning to separate languages, but still making mistakes.
Dismantling Limiting Beliefs
- “Bilingualism delays speech.”
❌ False. Handling two languages does not slow down speech, it simply impedes the ability to speak. - “If we don’t use the language every day, it gets lost.”
❌ False. A language can ‘hibernate’ and reactivate with practice. - “Mixing languages is a problem.”
❌ False. It is a sign of cognitive flexibility and a natural step in learning. - “Bilingualism confuses the child.”
❌ False. Children have an incredible capacity to learn multiple languages if they receive emotional support.
Practical tips for families
Adjust to expectations
Each child has his or her own pace. Instead of rushing them, enjoy the process with them.
English as a tool, not a goal
Integrate the language into everyday activities: singing songs, reading stories or playing in English normalises it and makes it fun.
Balance between quality and quantity
It’s not about always speaking English, but taking advantage of significant moments such as bath time, dinner or reading time.
What if I don’t have good pronunciation?
The most important thing is the emotional connection. Speak in the language that makes you feel closest to your child, but if you choose to use English, do so consistently to avoid confusion and don’t mix languages in the same context.
Home practice tips
- Use high frequency phrases: Come here! Time to eat!
- Ask simple questions during everyday activities: Where is the shampoo?
- For advanced skills, encourage reasoning: What was your favourite part of the film?
- Play with association cards: Put the animals together – which ones live in water?
Emotions: the engine of learning
Positive emotions activate the brain’s reward system, consolidating learning. Playing, singing and using body language in English not only teaches a language, but also strengthens the emotional bond between parents and children.
Want to know more?
Discover the full interview with Raquel de la Torre and more practical tips on the @escuelacaperucitarosa podcast on Spotify:
👉 Listen now
#BilingualismMyths #EarlyYears #LearnWithExcitement #DukesEducation
