American culture is more diverse than ever. Technology allows us to discover people and cultures that were previously out of reach, and international travel is at an all-time high.
Parents interested in raising global citizens, who want to prepare their children for an increasingly global job market, and who value multi-lingualism, are committed to raising kids who speak more than one language—and they are doing their kids a favor!
Educational Advantages of Being Bilingual
Studies show that students in dual language education programs score higher in Reading and Math than their monolingual counterparts. Bilingual kids are better at multi-tasking and memorization, because the part of the brain that processes language also controls their memory storage and attention span. Other benefits include higher self-esteem and an ability to better relate to, and empathize with, others.
Experts agree that early exposure to multiple languages has tremendous advantages. Having a solid foundation before kids enter grade school is the best way to learn a language and retain it. Karen Rivera Geating, a Spanish language consultant in Washington D.C., explains, “It’s easier to stay interested in a language you grew up with. Starting young is the key.”
Cultural Importance of Raising Bilingual Children
As global cultures and languages are gaining significance for all U.S. citizens, multi-lingualism is increasingly important. Whether you are fluent in Spanish, English, or any other combination of languages, it has now become possible—and valuable—to expose your children to another language from an early age. With so many benefits to your children’s development and future job opportunities, why not raise them bilingual?
Nurtured and Nuzzled Bilingual Bookset
Bilingual early childhood books belong on your bookshelf! This is the easiest way to introduce new vocabulary in both languages to your children. Being talked and read to—in any language—builds important pre-literacy skills. Reading together is always good for your bond with your child, plus, bilingual books allow parents who aren't fluent in English to share an enriching reading experience with their little one.
Our "Nurtured and Nuzzled Bilingual Bookset" of two bilingual paperback picture books is a great way to start growing your bilingual book collection. Celebrate the bond between parent and child in the animal kingdom while beginning to explore early science concepts. This gentle introduction to the wonderful world of animals is sure to spark curiosity in any child!
Cuddled and Carried / Consentido y cargado: Babies—whether in snowy dens, warm lagoons, cozy nests, or living rooms—are carried and cuddled, nurtured and nuzzled. Stunning images and gentle verse will capture the curiosity of even the youngest readers as they see how animal mothers tend to their cubs, pups, calves, and chicks.
Babies Nurse / Así se alimentan los bebés: This beautiful collaboration between a children’s librarian and an NBA- player-turned-watercolor-artist introduces the most natural and loving act—mothers nursing their young. Winner of a Parents’ Favorite Products Award, the book’s luminous illustrations and lyrical, bilingual text give children a glimpse into the worlds of 13 different mammal babies.
More Great Bilingual Resources
Children’s books, home education programs, and television shows that use more than one language can be valuable tools for parents. Here are some places you can find great resources for raising bilingual children: