Understanding and fostering the language and literacy development of young bilinguals

Bilingualism is prevalent throughout the world as children routinely learn two or more languages with the support of their families and communities, and in some cases, their schools. In the United States, the number of young bilinguals in PreK-12 settings in established and new immigrant destination areas is rapidly increasing. This white paper presents a summary of key findings and patterns of early bilingual development and separates common myths from scientific findings about childhood bilingualism. When carefully analyzed, the research often contradicts common beliefsor mythsheld by many, including parents, general educators, education specialists and other professionals who work with young children (e.g., doctors, speech-language pathologists), and educational policymakers. These myths have influenced home and school language practices, instruction, assessment and support services, and the organizational structures of education programs serving young bilinguals. With a solid understanding of how language develops for young bilinguals, families, education professionals, and policymakers can nurture and encourage bilingualism as a valued individual and societal asset.