A bilingual school starting in kindergarten: why does starting early make all the difference for your child?

Joséphine VIGOUROUX

Choosing a bilingual school from kindergarten onwards is now one of the most important issues for Parisian families. Many parents ask themselves: is it too early? Will my child mix up the languages? Is there an ideal age? How do you choose a bilingual school from kindergarten onwards?

Scientific research is unanimous: choosing a bilingual school from kindergarten onwards is an exceptional opportunity when children are introduced to a caring and structured environment.

A bilingual school starting in kindergarten: what are the advantages?

Bilingual schooling starting in kindergarten has proven scientific benefits. It stimulates:

  • cognitive flexibility;
  • attention span;
  • working memory;
  • creativity;
  • problem solving.

Ultimately, the earlier exposure begins, the more significant the benefits of bilingual schooling from kindergarten onwards.

How does choosing a bilingual school from kindergarten onwards affect language development?

Contrary to popular belief, bilingual schooling from kindergarten onwards does not delay language development.

In fact, children develop two language systems in parallel and multiply their cognitive abilities.

Studies show that children enrolled in a bilingual school from kindergarten onwards:

  • learn new words more quickly;
  • develop a more refined phonological awareness;
  • are more comfortable with the native accent; 
  • develop superior cognitive abilities.

How does a good bilingual school program work starting in kindergarten?

An effective bilingual school program starting in kindergarten is based on:

  • a native English-speaking and French-speaking teacher;
  • a real immersion;
  • natural interactions (games, routines, workshops, etc.);
  • a positive environment;
  • rehearsal;
  • consistent linguistic models.

Bilingualism from kindergarten onwards should not be limited to a few songs or games, or to two hours a day. Bilingualism from kindergarten onwards should be experienced on a daily basis.

WhyÉcole M the bilingual school of choice starting in kindergarten?

AtÉcole M, bilingualism starting in kindergarten is based on a unique model:

  • two teachers in the classroom (FR + EN);
  • gentle, natural, stress-free immersion;
  • active teaching methods;
  • multi-level classes;
  • interaction-rich environment.

Bilingual education starting in kindergarten, as seen by École M check out our educational program

Pre-register your child atÉcole M completing the pre-registration application form.

How can you support your child's bilingualism at home?

Here are our tips: 

  • read simple books in English;
  • listen to English nursery rhymes and music; 
  • be patient with phases of language mixing;
  • use natural everyday expressions;
  • create a positive and supportive atmosphere.

Discover École M's after-school program: an after-school program conducted entirely in English, where children learn while having fun.