Raising Bilingual Toddlers: Essential Steps 

Raising bilingual children from birth can give them a powerful advantage. Early bilingualism, where children learn two languages simultaneously from a young age, fosters strong bilingualism that brings numerous benefits. As a parent, if you speak or understand Spanish or any other language, you have a unique opportunity to enhance your child's development. Here’s how you can start today.

  I’ve taken with some practical steps to foster bilingualism in my twin toddlers.

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Steps to Foster Early Bilingualism

1. Spanish Storytime: Make it a habit to read to your child regularly in Spanish. Explore the diverse collection of books available at your local library. This is a wonderful opportunity to bond with your kids. Challenge yourself by participating in the "1K before Kindergarten" initiative. 

2. Bilingual Public-School Programs: Investigate dual language programs within your school district. For example, the dual language programs in Illinois are fantastic, providing structured learning in both English and Spanish. Stay tuned for my upcoming blog about bilingual and dual language programs in Illinois, including application procedures and tips.

3. Listening Skills: Speak to your children in Spanish. Consistent exposure is key to natural language acquisition.

4. Cultural Exposure: Participate in Hispanic cultural events and activities in your community. 

5. Bilingual Media: Incorporate TV shows in both Spanish and English into their routine. This helps reinforce language skills in an entertaining way.

By following these steps, you can help your children become strong bilinguals, opening up a world of opportunities for them. Early bilingualism is more than just learning another language; it’s about fostering cognitive growth, embracing diversity, and building multicultural competency. One of the reasons I founded Pura Vida Talk was the lack of age-appropriate resources for children to practice Spanish and the importance of starting the learning journey sooner rather than later. I also understand how challenging it can be to learn a new language later in life, as I experienced with English. After extensive research and countless hours dedicated to the program, I can say that starting language learning from an early age is highly effective and economical. Learning another language is a powerful tool for your children in this increasingly competitive world. Start your bilingual journey today and watch your children thrive in more ways than one!

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Shaiska Malca -

Pura Vida Talk Founder 5/27/2024​