A Bilingual Preschool: Why Starting Early Changes Everything for Your Child?

Joséphine VIGOUROUX

Choosing a bilingual preschool is now one of the most important topics for Parisian families. Many parents wonder: Is it too early? Will my child mix languages? Is there an ideal age? How do you choose a bilingual preschool?

Scientific research is unanimous: choosing a bilingual preschool is an exceptional opportunity when the child is introduced into a nurturing and structured environment.

A Bilingual Preschool: What Are the Advantages?

Bilingual preschool is a proven scientific advantage. Indeed, it stimulates:

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

Ultimately, the earlier the exposure begins, the more pronounced the benefits of bilingual preschool are.

How Does Choosing a Bilingual Preschool Affect Language Development?

Contrary to popular belief, bilingual preschool does not delay language development.

In fact, the child develops two linguistic systems in parallel and multiplies their cognitive abilities.

Studies show that children enrolled in a bilingual preschool:

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

How does an effective bilingual pre-school program work?

An effective bilingual pre-school program is based on:

  • native English-speaking and French-speaking teachers;
  • true immersion;
  • natural interactions (play, routines, workshops, etc.);
  • a positive environment;
  • repetition;
  • consistent linguistic models.

Bilingualism in pre-school should not be limited to a few songs or games, or to just two hours a day. It should be experienced daily.

Why is École M a preferred bilingual pre-school?

At École M, bilingualism in pre-school is based on a unique model:

  • two teachers in the classroom (French + English);
  • gentle, natural, stress-free immersion;
  • active pedagogies;
  • multi-level classes;
  • an environment rich in interactions.

Bilingual pre-school as seen by École M: consult our educational program

Pre-register your child at École M by completing the pre-registration request form.

How to 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 during language mixing phases;
  • use natural everyday expressions;
  • to create a positive and caring atmosphere.

Discover École M's after-school program: a 100% English program for learning through play.