Research indicates that supporting bilingualism from an early age can have wide-ranging benefits. At the same time, data shows that bilingual children can lag behind in academic achievement. As a professional, it can be difficult to know how to include a second language in your work with young children or what to say to a parent who’s concerned about their child’s progress. 

This e-Seminar offers research-based information on how to support the development of all children who are learning two languages, whether they are typically developing or have a language delay. You’ll learn about two sets of strategies (language facilitation strategies and cultural and linguistic inclusivity strategies) that you can share with educators and parents to support "additive bilingual environments" – that is, environments that support children to learn a second language while also supporting and reinforcing the first language.

After completing this e-Seminar, you will be able to:

• Explain typical bilingual language development.
• Provide evidence-based information in response to frequently asked questions regarding bilingualism.
• Apply specific interactive strategies to support an additive bilingual environment.
• Describe interactive strategies for parents and early childhood educators.