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Unlocking the Potentialof Bilingual Brains | Parent Webinar Series
Unlocking the Potentialof Bilingual Brains | Parent Webinar Series
School News
13 Dec, 2024
17 : 08
- Embrace Learning at Any Age: While early exposure to a second language provides many advantages, such as greater sensitivity to the sounds of the language and a more standard accent, it is never too late to start learning a second language.
Older children can make use of their first language skills and existing learning experiences, as well as their more mature cognitive skills, to effectively process a second language.
- Respect Silent Periods of Language Learning: Understand that children might experience silent periods when learning a new language. Do not force your children to speak in public too much before they are ready. It is better to ask them questions when they show curiosity about something because this will foster sustained interest and confidence in learning a second language.
- Balance the Use of the Two Languages: Bilingual children might naturally demonstrate stronger proficiency in one language more than in the other language. "Translanguaging", or alternating between languages, is a common and effective way for bilinguals to communicate. This reflects their linguistic flexibility rather than a lack of mastery. Encourage your children to feel comfortable using both languages, while supporting them to develop fluency at a pace suited to their individual needs and circumstances.
- Patiently Support the Learning of Academic Language:
Understand that mastery of the academic language differs from conversational fluency and that it takes much longer to attain proficiency in academic language. Create an environment that supports your children's development, and include a variety of language inputs and opportunities to use the language, such as reading aloud, meaningful discussions, etc.
- Adapt to Learning Styles: Combine the strengths of Eastern and Western educational methods by engaging your child in a mix of interactive, hands-on, and technology-assisted language learning activities. This would include watching age-appropriate cartoons and movies, applying language skills to real-life situations, and using technology to promote language development.
- Embrace Learning at Any Age: While early exposure to a second language provides many advantages, such as greater sensitivity to the sounds of the language and a more standard accent, it is never too late to start learning a second language.
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