Second language

Childhood bilingualism is a significant experience that has the power to influence the course and efficiency of children’s development.

The potential impact of bilingualism on children’s development has increasingly emerged as a crucial concern for modern societies, and for Canada in particular. In addition to the official commitment to a national policy of second-language acquisition and bilingualism, Canada’s immigration program has transformed the country into a rich multilingual and multicultural nation. Public schools are home to large numbers of children for whom English or French is a second language. It is therefore imperative that we understand the impact of these language backgrounds on children’s cognitive and educational futures.

See also...

• What do we know?
• What can be done?
• According to experts