These briefs summarize the latest research on three different topic areas. They include ”try this” tips, which help translate the research to practice in meaningful ways and can be used as part of a training, or as a resource for grantees or programs.

Hearing Language Is Learning

Children’s early experiences with language form the foundation for later language learning. Infants learn language by listening to the language that surrounds them everyday. Their brains change in response to what languages they hear.

Growing Up as a Dual Language Learner

Whether children are monolingual or multilingual, their language learning typically follows the same trajectory. Children who learn a second language at a later point may reach these milestones for their second language months or years later. This is the natural progression for DLLs.

Cognitive Benefits of Bilingualism

DLLs’ brains get an extra workout. Switching between two languages requires the brain to use inhibition and task-switching skills. Speaking more than one language can also help boost children’s memory skills.