You’re raising bilingual children — awesome! So we’re going to bet that you’ve probably already heard about dual-language programs. Maybe you’ve even considered enrolling your kids in one. But that brings up questions: What are dual-language programs? And will they really help your kids become fluent?
That’s exactly what this blog is about. We’ll share our best tips for raising bilingual kids and making the most of dual-language programs
How Do Dual-Language Programs in the United States Work?
In the U.S., dual language programs provide instruction in English and another language. In about 80% of programs, that second language is Spanish. But, depending on where you live, you may be able to find dual language programs in other languages as well.
Usually, a significant amount of instruction is in the target language. In other words, dual language is a lot more than speaking Spanish for a few minutes every class period. Instead, students’ day might include:
- Math class in English
- Science class in Spanish
- Social studies class in Spanish
- And a language arts class that uses both Spanish and English
How useful!
But there are also differences among programs. Those differences include:
- The grades in which dual language is offered. Some programs go all the way through high school!
- The entry requirements for the program.
- The amount of time the target language is used. For example, will instruction be 50/50 Spanish and English? Or will Spanish be used the majority of the time?
Here’s one big difference you’ll want to keep in mind: Does enrollment in the dual-language program you’re looking at include only English-speaking students who are learning Spanish? Or are there also native Spanish speakers who are learning English?
We love dual-language programs of all kinds. But we do think kids benefit more from being in a classroom with native speakers of both languages. The friendships they form enhance their language learning.
Benefits of Dual-Language Programs
Now to the next big question: Do dual-language programs really help kids become fluent?
The short answer: Yes.
For a longer answer, let’s look at what research (PDF) has found about the benefits and effectiveness (PDF) of dual-language programs:
- Students in dual-language programs have higher academic achievement in a variety of subjects, not just language.
- They demonstrate increased self-regulation.
- They become more flexible thinkers.
- They have better working memory.
- They’re better at problem solving.
- They’ll have an easier time learning additional languages in the future.
- They become more receptive to other cultures.
Hopefully, everything we’ve talked about so far has you excited about the potential of dual-language programs to enhance your kids’ fluency.
Give Your Child the Gift of Spanish!
How Can I Find a Dual-Language Program in My Area?
According to U.S. News and World Report, you’ll probably have the best luck finding a program if you live in California, New York, North Carolina, Texas or Utah. More than half of dual language programs are located in these states.
But if you live somewhere else, that doesn’t mean you won’t find one close to home! Here are our hints on how to find a dual-language program for your kids:
- Visit our home page. Scroll all the way down to the bottom. There, you’ll find links to our reports on Spanish immersion programs in Texas, California, Arizona and New York.
- Visit DualLanguageSchools.org to find a program near you.
Questions to Ask About Any Dual-Language Program
As you look at dual-language programs for your kids, we recommend asking questions like these:
- How much conversational practice will children get?
- How experienced are the instructors?
- Does the program keep up with the latest research on bilingual education?
- How is progress measured?
- What results do students experience?
- How big are classes?
- Is the overall environment of the program supportive, diverse and engaging?
This way you’ll learn how the program works and whether it’s a good fit for your kids. We have another blog article that goes into more depth on each of these questions. Check it out to be more prepared.
What If a Dual-Language Program Just Isn’t an Option?
Maybe there are no programs in your state or metro area. Or perhaps it just isn’t viable to get your kids to a school with a dual-language program every day. Does that mean they’ll have to miss out on all the benefits of dual language education?
No worries, that’s where we come in! We offer Spanish immersion classes online. You can enroll no matter where you’re located, what your schedule is, how old your kids are and how much experience they have with Spanish. Flexibility is the name of the game here!
We’re also proud to say that our instructors are native Spanish speakers who also have a knack for making learning fun. You can get to know them on our YouTube channel. Your kids will sing, dance, do crafts, play games and even cook with us!
Some of our TruFluency Kids families use our classes to supplement what their kids are learning in immersion programs at school. But for other families, we’re their sole source for Spanish lessons. Either way, their kids are having a blast as they build Spanish fluency.
We’d love to tell you more about our classes, as well as answer any questions you may have. But the best way to learn is firsthand. Take a 30-minute trial class now! The class will feel very personalized, as there are no more than four to six students.
After it’s done, parents can join a Q & A, so we can answer all your questions. See you there!
