Teaching your child a second language is a valuable gift. Exposing your baby to a foreign language at a young age increases their chances of becoming more fluent in that language later and improves their overall mental development.

Choosing a Language

There are many languages in the world to choose from. One very popular language at this time is sign language. Additionally, the

Baby’s First Words in

eries (Amazon, $14.60) offers a variety of choices. Regardless of the second language you choose, take this time to start learning it as well. By doing so, you increase your child’s exposure to the language and also offer an opportunity to share an important experience with your baby.

How to Teach a Second Language

0 to 18 months

When your baby is just a newborn, he or she is already learning the language you speak. All babies experience what is known as a 'silent period” as they soak up the sounds around them and learn to differentiate them. During this time, expose your baby to as much of a second language as possible. If you are bilingual, commit to frequently using this language with your baby. If not, use CDs with music or audio books to expose your child to the language. For example,

Play and Learn French

(Amazon, $18.00) uses French songs and games to develop your child’s language ability.

18 months to 3 years

By 18 months, your baby should be grasping the basics of your first language and possibly even producing two to three word phrases. Work with your baby daily in order to increase second language input. Television shows such as

Plaza Sesamo

the Spanish counterpart to

Sesame Street,

is one way to expose your child to Spanish.

Little Pim

is another resource that offers videos, games, and even iPad activities for your child to increase second language ability. Additionally, find a native speaker to work with your child for several hours a week. If you live near a college or university, international college students make perfect tutors to work with your child.

3 to 5 years

If possible, enroll your child in a bilingual daycare or preschool. With daily exposure to the language and an opportunity to use it, your child will learn that the language you are teaching has an important and integral role in society. At this time in your child’s language development, teach them about the culture associated with the language as well. If you are teaching your child French, discuss the places in the world where French is used. If your child is learning Spanish, you can prepare a traditional dinner of rice and beans and discuss how children live in Spanish speaking countries.

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