The bilingual nursery: a gateway to multilingual studies

We will examine the principles and advantages of bilingual nurseries, and their important role in the transition to multilingual education. We will also discuss the challenges associated with this form of education and highlight the importance of adequate support to maximise the benefits of this approach.

I. The basics of bilingual nurseries

A. Definition and Operation

A bilingual nursery is an educational establishment where communication takes place in two languages, usually the child's mother tongue and a foreign language. Play activities, songs and stories are used to teach languages in a natural and intuitive way, encouraging learning without fear or loss of bearings.

B. Educational objectives

Bilingual nurseries aim to develop children's language skills while cultivating their open-mindedness. They encourage curiosity about other cultures and languages, enabling children to flourish in a diverse environment. Early language learning helps to prepare children for a multicultural world and to appreciate its diversity from an early age.

II. Advantages of bilingual nurseries

A. Cognitive Development

Studies show that early learning of several languages stimulates cognitive development. Children in a bilingual environment develop better problem-solving skills, creativity and critical thinking. Learning different languages promotes greater mental flexibility, contributing to superior academic performance in other areas.

B. Social and emotional skills

Bilingual nurseries not only teach languages, but also foster social and emotional development. By interacting with peers from different backgrounds, children learn empathy and tolerance, discovering different ways of thinking and living. A collaborative learning environment also builds interpersonal skills and self-confidence.

The benefits of bilingual nurseries extend to the continuity of learning. Children who have received a bilingual education are often better prepared for multilingual school programmes. This solid foundation helps them to succeed academically and to explore a wide range of professional opportunities. In an increasingly globalised labour market, fluency in several languages is a valuable asset.

III. Transition to Multilingual Studies

A. Educational continuity

The transition phase between bilingual nursery and primary school is essential. To maximise the benefits of bilingual education, collaboration between parents and educators is crucial to ensure linguistic continuity. It is important to encourage children to use both languages at home and at school. Integration programmes and extra-curricular activities can also help to maintain children's interest in language learning.

B. Integrating more than one language into education

Multilingual studies offer a variety of teaching models. Some schools introduce additional languages at primary level, while others concentrate on perfecting languages already learned.

Immersion programmes, where subjects are taught in a foreign language, are particularly effective in strengthening language skills. Schools that promote a plurilingual environment also encourage pupils to explore new languages and cultures, enriching their learning experience.

IV Approaches to bilingualism in day nurseries

1. additive approach: this method aims to introduce a second language without affecting the mother tongue, thus enriching the child's linguistic and cultural background. Examples: bilingual activities, stories in both languages.
2. Subtractive approach: Here, the teaching of the second language often replaces the mother tongue, leading to a loss of skills in the latter, particularly in contexts where only one language is valued.
3. Intercultural approach: this approach uses language learning to explore different cultures, with activities celebrating diversity and promoting respect for differences.
4. Functional Approach: Language learning is integrated into real-life contexts and games, making the process more relevant and applicable. Children learn to use languages in everyday interactions.
5. Project-based approach: Children take part in themed projects where both languages are used to explore topics of common interest, encouraging collaborative learning.

Impact of bilingualism on identity development

1. Building Cultural Identity: Bilingualism helps children to develop a rich cultural identity, reinforcing their sense of belonging to several communities and their cultural pride.
2. Cognitive Flexibility: Bilingual children acquire greater cognitive flexibility, allowing them to explore different perspectives and encouraging creativity.
3. Social Skills: Bilingualism facilitates interaction with peers of different languages, enhancing empathy and interpersonal skills.
4. Self-esteem: The ability to express oneself in several languages increases self-esteem, especially when this skill is valued by parents and educators.
5. Development of language skills: Bilingual children often develop advanced communication skills, which can help them in their future school careers.

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