When is the best time to learn a foreign language? The answer is the earlier the better, and the absolute best time is before a child turns 6. Between the ages of 0-6, a child’s brain makes connections at an astonishing rate. If you are interested in introducing your child to a new language, or if you already speak more than one language at home with your child, the Boston Public Library is full of helpful and free resources.
Mango Languages' Little Pim (available for free through Boston Public Library's electronic resources: http://www.bpl.org/electronic/) is a great place to get started. This free resource provides fun, interactive videos in a variety of languages for young children to enjoy. Games scattered throughout offer a way to test what you have learned.
Building language and literacy skills go hand in hand. To help you get started, check out some of the wonderful bilingual books available in our collection. Ask your child questions as you go through each book. Point out and discuss aspects of the book. If you are interested and curious about the book and the languages used in it, then your child will be too. Visit your favorite local branch of the Boston Public Library today to ask about taking one of these titles home with you!
This list was designed to feature books in a variety of languages that may act as a starting point for enhancing your little one's language skills and for introducing them to other cultures.
Add a comment to: Library Language Learning Resources for Children Under 6