Starting a new school and learning a second language is a big adventure! It’s normal to be nervous about your child starting a dual immersion program, but rest assured that we will be here for you and your child along the way. Taking on a new skill or a new experience takes courage. This is an exciting time, and we want you to feel prepared, so here are some things to remember as your student embarks on this new journey.
Be patient.
Things won’t happen overnight. They may happen very slowly. It’s different for every child. Trust your child and in our proven program! It may take them a few weeks to adjust to a new way of learning, and that’s OK. Year after year, we see our students rise to the challenge and come out stronger on the other side!
You won’t hear it at home right away.
Don’t expect to hear your child using the new language at home, especially in the beginning. Children often go through a silent period, where they don’t want to show off a skill they have not perfected yet – much like any adult. Sometimes students will view the new language as a skill only used at school. That’s normal too. It will all come with time. When learning a new language, one can understand it before they can speak it. Comprehension, speaking, and translating are all separate skills acquired at different times. In time, your child will gain more vocabulary and phrases and be able to supply words immediately.
Learn more about the five stages of second language acquisition here.
Grammar rules come later.
Don’t worry if you don’t see an emphasis on grammar in the beginning. In the early stages of language acquisition, students learn by hearing, doing, and speaking. Grammar rules will come much later. Your child will learn to speak the language correctly by hearing peers and adults around them speaking correctly, just as it happens when learning our native language.
Studies show that bilingual students outperform their peers in all content areas.
With that said, it is normal for a student learning two languages to appear to be “behind” peers learning only one. This is not permanent. By being immersed in two languages, your child’s brain will work in different ways to help them become problem-solvers and creative thinkers. Being part of a dual immersion program will benefit them throughout their lives.
They will do great.
Continue being your child’s biggest cheerleader. This new challenge is exciting but like with any new thing, it may seem daunting to your child and they will look to you for reassurance. Reinforce the idea of perseverance and confidence. We know that they will do great.
Reach out to us.
If you have questions or concerns, don’t suffer in silence. We want to hear from you. G.L.A.D. has a strong community and many resources available to our families. Please reach out to us and allow us to help! We are here to help guide you on this dual immersion journey.