Latest posts at Bilingual Monkeys
Jul 14, 2014 11:14:00 GMT 9
Post by Adam Beck on Jul 14, 2014 11:14:00 GMT 9
I thought it might be helpful to keep a running list of links for the latest blog posts at Bilingual Monkeys. When a new blog post appears there, I'll also add the link here!
The Best (and Worst) of Blogging About Bilingual Kids for 10 Years (Part 2)
This article continues my reflections on blogging about bilingual kids for the past 10 years, both the upside and downside of this experience.
This article continues my reflections on blogging about bilingual kids for the past 10 years, both the upside and downside of this experience.
The Best (and Worst) of Blogging About Bilingual Kids for 10 Years (Part 1)
Looking back, let me now share some of the best, and worst, of my experience blogging about bilingual kids for the past 10 years. In fact, sometimes these things are simultaneously best and worst.
Looking back, let me now share some of the best, and worst, of my experience blogging about bilingual kids for the past 10 years. In fact, sometimes these things are simultaneously best and worst.
That's Bananas! It's the 10-Year Anniversary of Bilingual Monkeys!
Exactly 10 years ago today—on September 1, 2012, when my kids were just 8 and 5—I began this blog with my first-ever post. It was titled "The Ten Commandments (of Raising a Bilingual Child)".
Exactly 10 years ago today—on September 1, 2012, when my kids were just 8 and 5—I began this blog with my first-ever post. It was titled "The Ten Commandments (of Raising a Bilingual Child)".
Forget Fluency! Instead, Make This Your Goal When Raising Bilingual Kids.
This year my daughter, now 18, has taken two English proficiency tests. (English is her minority language; Japanese is her majority language.) The first was the highest level of the EIKEN seven-level test, which is widely used in Japan and is essentially a pass-or-fail sort of exam. And the second test, because she’s now applying to university programs in Japan that emphasize English, was the TOEFL, which provides a proficiency score up to 120 points.
This year my daughter, now 18, has taken two English proficiency tests. (English is her minority language; Japanese is her majority language.) The first was the highest level of the EIKEN seven-level test, which is widely used in Japan and is essentially a pass-or-fail sort of exam. And the second test, because she’s now applying to university programs in Japan that emphasize English, was the TOEFL, which provides a proficiency score up to 120 points.
Bilingual Success Stories #7: Non-Native Parents of English Raise Actively English-Speaking Kids
This engaging story from Bilingual Success Stories Around the World: Parents Raising Multilingual Kids Share Their Experiences and Encouragement is one of several in-depth stories in the book that feature non-native parents nurturing success in the target language with their children.
This engaging story from Bilingual Success Stories Around the World: Parents Raising Multilingual Kids Share Their Experiences and Encouragement is one of several in-depth stories in the book that feature non-native parents nurturing success in the target language with their children.
The Top 10 Posts Over the Past 10 Years at Bilingual Monkeys
It’s hard to believe, but this blog is now nearly 10 years old! My very first post was on September 1, 2012 when my kids were just 8 and 5! Today they’re 18 and 15! Since that first post, there have been 488 more! And among this total of 489 posts, the top 10 posts, in terms of page views, are these. Just click to see them.
It’s hard to believe, but this blog is now nearly 10 years old! My very first post was on September 1, 2012 when my kids were just 8 and 5! Today they’re 18 and 15! Since that first post, there have been 488 more! And among this total of 489 posts, the top 10 posts, in terms of page views, are these. Just click to see them.
Bilingual Success Stories #3: Intentional Efforts Empower the Journey Even Before Birth
Victor Santos and his wife Olya are shining examples of mindful, proactive parents who are experiencing very rewarding multilingual success with their kids. Their inspiring story, featured in the book Bilingual Success Stories Around the World: Parents Raising Multilingual Kids Share Their Experiences and Encouragement, is shared here in full.
Guest Post: My PhD Thesis on the Language Strategies of Bilingual Families
In this engaging guest post, Arancha Ruiz Martín introduces herself and her work and generously offers her insightful thesis on bilingualism for downloading.
In this engaging guest post, Arancha Ruiz Martín introduces herself and her work and generously offers her insightful thesis on bilingualism for downloading.
The 3 Things About Raising Bilingual Kids That I Stress Most Often to Parents
These days I regularly consult with parents about their bilingual or multilingual aim and, during these conversations, I have the chance to look back at my own journey with my kids and the things that have been most central to our success. While it’s certainly true that every family’s experience is different, and so our efforts should always be tailored as effectively as possible to our own particular situation, I do think there are some very basic and very powerful principles that apply to us all.
These days I regularly consult with parents about their bilingual or multilingual aim and, during these conversations, I have the chance to look back at my own journey with my kids and the things that have been most central to our success. While it’s certainly true that every family’s experience is different, and so our efforts should always be tailored as effectively as possible to our own particular situation, I do think there are some very basic and very powerful principles that apply to us all.
A Surprising Outcome to My Fundraiser for Ukraine
The vast and needless suffering of the Ukrainian people is absolutely tragic. Yet it’s hard not to feel helpless, on top of our sympathy and outrage, in the face of such tremendous destruction. Whatever support we can offer may seem ridiculously small, but each drop in this sea of need still matters.
The vast and needless suffering of the Ukrainian people is absolutely tragic. Yet it’s hard not to feel helpless, on top of our sympathy and outrage, in the face of such tremendous destruction. Whatever support we can offer may seem ridiculously small, but each drop in this sea of need still matters.
Bilingual Success Stories #17: Building Community and Boosting the Success of Many Families
I recently shared Marta Garcia’s encouraging guest post Our Successful Playgroup for Minority Language Families and thought I would now follow up by offering the full story of her rewarding experience raising three bilingual children. Her family’s story, along with the inspiring, in-depth stories of 25 other families, is featured in Bilingual Success Stories Around the World: Parents Raising Multilingual Kids Share Their Experiences and Encouragement.
I recently shared Marta Garcia’s encouraging guest post Our Successful Playgroup for Minority Language Families and thought I would now follow up by offering the full story of her rewarding experience raising three bilingual children. Her family’s story, along with the inspiring, in-depth stories of 25 other families, is featured in Bilingual Success Stories Around the World: Parents Raising Multilingual Kids Share Their Experiences and Encouragement.
Guest Post: Our Successful Playgroup for Minority Language Families
In this encouraging guest post, Marta Garcia shares the story of forming and running a very successful playgroup for minority language families for more than 10 years. In fact, I had the happy opportunity to visit Marta's playgroup in person in September 2019, when conducting interviews for Bilingual Success Stories Around the World, and was incredibly impressed.
In this encouraging guest post, Marta Garcia shares the story of forming and running a very successful playgroup for minority language families for more than 10 years. In fact, I had the happy opportunity to visit Marta's playgroup in person in September 2019, when conducting interviews for Bilingual Success Stories Around the World, and was incredibly impressed.
Two Bilingual Teens, Two Big Milestones
I began this blog 10 years ago, when my kids were 8 and 5. Today they’re 17 and 14 and will turn 18 and 15 in just a few more months. I’ve covered many of the milestones we’ve experienced during this decade and I now have two more: this week each of them received some very good news tied to their bilingual ability.
I began this blog 10 years ago, when my kids were 8 and 5. Today they’re 17 and 14 and will turn 18 and 15 in just a few more months. I’ve covered many of the milestones we’ve experienced during this decade and I now have two more: this week each of them received some very good news tied to their bilingual ability.
Listen to my conversation with Dolores Guiñazú, in which I share my personal perspective on raising bilingual children, at the Attitudeable podcast.
How Your Bilingual Journey Is Like Driving a Car at Night When a Deer Suddenly Appears on the Road Ahead
Recently, at The Bilingual Zoo forum, I responded to a parent’s concerns about their bilingual journey by offering the metaphor that I’ll share today. A blog post on this theme feels like a good way to begin a new year that will hopefully be very fruitful for your bilingual or multilingual aim with your kids.
Recently, at The Bilingual Zoo forum, I responded to a parent’s concerns about their bilingual journey by offering the metaphor that I’ll share today. A blog post on this theme feels like a good way to begin a new year that will hopefully be very fruitful for your bilingual or multilingual aim with your kids.
My Personal Highlights (and Lowlights) from 2021
Another challenging year has come to an end. In this post I look back at my mostly home-bound life, both the highlights and lowlights I experienced over the past 12 months.
Another challenging year has come to an end. In this post I look back at my mostly home-bound life, both the highlights and lowlights I experienced over the past 12 months.
My Own Wordless Picture Book to Share with You and Your Children
"Bearded Dragon, Home Alone" is a wordless picture book full of fun and joy that can be shared with children in any language!
"Bearded Dragon, Home Alone" is a wordless picture book full of fun and joy that can be shared with children in any language!
We had a virtual book launch of Bilingual Success Stories Around the World with many of the parents whose stories are featured in the book, including members of The Bilingual Zoo! Click the link right above to watch the video!
In connection with the release of my new book, Bilingual Success Stories Around the World, I wrote a guest post about my own experience raising bilingual kids at the lovely site Mama Llama Linguist.
Recommended Resources: “The Toolbox for Multilingual Families” Offers 123 Practical and Productive Ideas for Fostering Your Child's Minority Language
This book by Ute Limacher-Riebold and Ana Elisa Miranda provides a wide range of practical and productive activities that can help nurture a child’s development in any target language.
This book by Ute Limacher-Riebold and Ana Elisa Miranda provides a wide range of practical and productive activities that can help nurture a child’s development in any target language.
Memories of Fatherhood on this Father’s Day 2021
My kids are now 17 and 14 and today I looked through old photos, taken a dozen or so years ago, and I’ve chosen a few to share. To be honest, I’m feeling wistful for that bygone time. It’s been over for a while now and I’ll never experience it again.
My kids are now 17 and 14 and today I looked through old photos, taken a dozen or so years ago, and I’ve chosen a few to share. To be honest, I’m feeling wistful for that bygone time. It’s been over for a while now and I’ll never experience it again.
Guest Post: What Does It Take to Raise a Multi-literate Child?
Yoshito Darmon-Shimamori shares his creative, enthusiastic approach to nurturing literacy and the new book that brings together his ideas, The Parents’ Guide to Raising Multi-literate Children.
Yoshito Darmon-Shimamori shares his creative, enthusiastic approach to nurturing literacy and the new book that brings together his ideas, The Parents’ Guide to Raising Multi-literate Children.
Guest Post: 5 Things I Wish I Had Known About Raising Bilingual Children 10 Years Ago
Felicity Neyme, founder of Mini Languages, shares key ideas for raising bilingual kids in this insightful guest post at Bilingual Monkeys.
Felicity Neyme, founder of Mini Languages, shares key ideas for raising bilingual kids in this insightful guest post at Bilingual Monkeys.
VIDEO: Adam Beck of Bilingual Monkeys Speaks Again (4 Year Later!) with Amanda Hsiung Blodgett of Miss Panda Chinese
I recently spoke again with Amanda Hsiung Blodgett, a.k.a. Miss Panda Chinese, about our experiences raising bilingual kids of basically the same ages.
I recently spoke again with Amanda Hsiung Blodgett, a.k.a. Miss Panda Chinese, about our experiences raising bilingual kids of basically the same ages.
There's Finally Light at the End of This Tunnel
I’m referring to Bilingual Success Stories, the book I’ve been working on for the past three years that brings together the "success stories" of many bilingual and multilingual families.
I’m referring to Bilingual Success Stories, the book I’ve been working on for the past three years that brings together the "success stories" of many bilingual and multilingual families.
Curious What My Plans Are for 2021? (Hint: They Involve Bilingual Kids and Bearded Dragons)
If you’re curious what my plans are for 2021, I summarize them in this post. If you’re not curious what my plans are, you can stop reading here and enjoy a donut instead. (Or do both.)
If you’re curious what my plans are for 2021, I summarize them in this post. If you’re not curious what my plans are, you can stop reading here and enjoy a donut instead. (Or do both.)
Read This If Ever You Doubt the Meaning of Your Bilingual Aim with Your Child
The world has been spinning madly for nearly a year now. I suppose our lives were never truly in our control even before the pandemic struck, but it feels like whatever control we did have has largely slipped away, laying bare the existential state at the heart of being human.
My New Year's Message for Parents Raising Bilingual Children During a Pandemic
Our calling to give something to this world, to leave it just a little bit better when we depart than when we arrived, will continue to be the throughline for our lives, no matter the state of the world.
Our calling to give something to this world, to leave it just a little bit better when we depart than when we arrived, will continue to be the throughline for our lives, no matter the state of the world.
So here I am. Six weeks in the womb. And I’m bored silly.
I’m thrilled to welcome the Polish edition of Maximize Your Child’s Bilingual Ability to the world, the very first translated edition of the book!
Guest Post: My Son Is a Language Superhero, Even If He Doesn’t Know It Yet
In this inspiring guest post, Hossam Abouzahr shares the story of his successful efforts to nurture Arabic in his young son while living in the U.S.
In this inspiring guest post, Hossam Abouzahr shares the story of his successful efforts to nurture Arabic in his young son while living in the U.S.
What Happened to My New Book Featuring the Success Stories of Bilingual and Multilingual Families?
Despite some difficulties, the book is coming along and I can now see a ray of light at the end of this long tunnel.
Despite some difficulties, the book is coming along and I can now see a ray of light at the end of this long tunnel.
My Bilingual Kids Are Now Teens and This Is the Key to Our Success
Make the most of the fleeting younger years of your children's lives, when you can exert the most influence on their language development.
Make the most of the fleeting younger years of your children's lives, when you can exert the most influence on their language development.
Are Your Kids or Students Learning Spanish or English? This New Bilingual Book of Fairy Tales (with Online Audio) Could Help Fuel Their Progress!
A bilingual language learning resource that can benefit learners of all ages in improving their Spanish or English.
A bilingual language learning resource that can benefit learners of all ages in improving their Spanish or English.
Guest Post: Alice in a Bilingual Wonderland - How to Nurture the Minority Language with Creativity and Mindset
Mark Fielding details the first few years of his family’s bilingual journey with engaging humor and keen insight in this inspiring guest post.
Mark Fielding details the first few years of his family’s bilingual journey with engaging humor and keen insight in this inspiring guest post.
New Podcast Interview with Adam Beck on Raising Bilingual Children (Plus 8 More Interviews About Bilingual Kids!)
I hope all you dads (and moms) out there enjoy my conversation with Scott Davison at The Dad Train!
I hope all you dads (and moms) out there enjoy my conversation with Scott Davison at The Dad Train!
HaBilNet, an Empowering New Source of Support for Parents Raising Bilingual Kids
HaBilNet, the Harmonious Bilingualism Network, lends support to bilingual families in various ways, including a consultation service with expert consultants.
HaBilNet, the Harmonious Bilingualism Network, lends support to bilingual families in various ways, including a consultation service with expert consultants.
Use Coloring Books to Promote Language Exposure for Your Bilingual Kids
Coloring books can be used in strategic ways to promote exposure in the minority language--any minority language!
Coloring books can be used in strategic ways to promote exposure in the minority language--any minority language!
Chameleon Reader: The One Product I Wish I Could Gift to Every Parent and Teacher of Bilingual or Multilingual Children
Chameleon Reader is a tremendously fun and useful product and I can’t recommend it highly enough for homes and schools.
Chameleon Reader is a tremendously fun and useful product and I can’t recommend it highly enough for homes and schools.
Dylan's Birthday Present is a new children's picture book about bilingual and multilingual kids...and a chicken.
Exciting News! It Came in the Mail Today and It Looks Great!
My son and I (and our bearded dragon, too) look forward to sharing our new book with you!
My son and I (and our bearded dragon, too) look forward to sharing our new book with you!
Play This Great Indoor Game with Your Kids (And Get Them Eagerly Reading, Too)
Do your kids like games? And treasure? They'll get both in this fun activity--and some good reading practice, too!
Do your kids like games? And treasure? They'll get both in this fun activity--and some good reading practice, too!
Can This Difficult Time Also Be an Opportunity for Your Family?
In what ways can the coronovirus lockdown benefit your bond with your kids and your bilingual aim?
In what ways can the coronovirus lockdown benefit your bond with your kids and your bilingual aim?
Big News About My Blog!
So I’ve finally come to a crossroads: either I renew the Bilingual Monkeys site or I let it slowly wither away.
So I’ve finally come to a crossroads: either I renew the Bilingual Monkeys site or I let it slowly wither away.
My Daughter Hits the Biggest Milestone of Our Bilingual Journey Together
There's happy news for my teenage daughter...and for me.
There's happy news for my teenage daughter...and for me.
Guest Post: The Multilingual, Multicultural Life of a Third Culture Kid
In this in-depth article, Vivien Won shares the vivid story of her son's multilingual and multicultural life.
In this in-depth article, Vivien Won shares the vivid story of her son's multilingual and multicultural life.
All the Crazy Mischief I’ll Be Making in 2020
Here are the many efforts I'll be making this year as I continue my work to support the success of parents raising bilingual and multilingual children.
Here are the many efforts I'll be making this year as I continue my work to support the success of parents raising bilingual and multilingual children.
I Did Something the Other Day That I Thought I’d Never Do
This post is a good example of how the bilingual journey naturally evolves over the childhood years.
This post is a good example of how the bilingual journey naturally evolves over the childhood years.
Guest Post: Non-native Speakers Can Bring Up Bilingual Kids, Too!
In this encouraging guest post, Elzbieta Rzeszutko, a non-native speaker of English in Poland bringing up her children in this language, shares her story of "intentional bilingualism."
In this encouraging guest post, Elzbieta Rzeszutko, a non-native speaker of English in Poland bringing up her children in this language, shares her story of "intentional bilingualism."
This Is the Bottom Line for Success at Raising Bilingual Kids
At the end of the day, it is always and only perseverance--perseverance through the process--that will reward you with the pay-off you seek.
At the end of the day, it is always and only perseverance--perseverance through the process--that will reward you with the pay-off you seek.
Guest Post: How a Monolingual Family Became a Bilingual Family
Tiara Harris, of the YouTube channel Chocolate Sushi Roll, shares the encouraging story of her efforts to make both herself and her children bilingual.
Tiara Harris, of the YouTube channel Chocolate Sushi Roll, shares the encouraging story of her efforts to make both herself and her children bilingual.
I WANT TO BE BILINGUAL! is the perfect book for parents--especially new parents and parents of younger kids--who dream of raising bilingual or multilingual children.
Reflections on My Five Weeks in Europe, Part 5: Back to Japan, and Back to Our Key Habits and Routines
Effective habits and routines are one of the core principles for generating bilingual or multilingual success over time.
Effective habits and routines are one of the core principles for generating bilingual or multilingual success over time.
Reflections on My Five Weeks in Europe, Part 4: The Sweet Joy of Playing with Small Children
In my very first homestay of the trip, I flashed on my own daughter when she was the same small, incredibly-cute age and I suddenly missed that time terribly.
In my very first homestay of the trip, I flashed on my own daughter when she was the same small, incredibly-cute age and I suddenly missed that time terribly.
Reflections on My Five Weeks in Europe, Part 3: Lunch with Simon Farrow
What a joy it was to finally meet Simon Farrow, the brilliant artist who created the illustrations for my humorous novel How I Lost My Ear!
What a joy it was to finally meet Simon Farrow, the brilliant artist who created the illustrations for my humorous novel How I Lost My Ear!
Reflections on My Five Weeks in Europe, Part 2: Old Friends, New Friends
In addition to the "old friends" I was meeting for the first time, in countries across Europe, I was reunited with a group of old friends from the Czech Republic who I hadn't seen in 23 years.
In addition to the "old friends" I was meeting for the first time, in countries across Europe, I was reunited with a group of old friends from the Czech Republic who I hadn't seen in 23 years.
Reflections on My Five Weeks in Europe, Part 1: Gratitude
Above all, I’m deeply thankful for having had this opportunity to visit a variety of marvelous places, to spend time with a number of lovely families, and to hear their heartfelt stories about raising bilingual and multilingual children.
Above all, I’m deeply thankful for having had this opportunity to visit a variety of marvelous places, to spend time with a number of lovely families, and to hear their heartfelt stories about raising bilingual and multilingual children.
Follow My Travels in the U.K. and Europe!
I'm on the road from September 2 to October 9, visiting bilingual and multilingual families across the U.K. and Europe for a new book project.
I'm on the road from September 2 to October 9, visiting bilingual and multilingual families across the U.K. and Europe for a new book project.
If You Like Blueberries and Bilingual Children, You’ll Enjoy This Blog Post
Are you making the most of the fleeting years of childhood to advance your bilingual aim, day by day?
Are you making the most of the fleeting years of childhood to advance your bilingual aim, day by day?
How Translation Tasks Can Be Doubly Productive for Your Bilingual Kids
Could you engage your children in translation tasks on a regular basis, even from a fairly young age?
Could you engage your children in translation tasks on a regular basis, even from a fairly young age?
Guest Post: Raising Bilingual Kids in Challenging Conditions Can Ignite a Parent’s Creativity
Ana Calabrese, of Spanish Plus Me, shares her inspiring story of a creative approach to achieving success on the bilingual journey.
Ana Calabrese, of Spanish Plus Me, shares her inspiring story of a creative approach to achieving success on the bilingual journey.
Guest Post: Bilingual Ability Is Always a Positive Thing
Marisa Martínez Mira offers a broader perspective on the bilingual journey, based on her own personal and professional experience, in this encouraging guest post.
Marisa Martínez Mira offers a broader perspective on the bilingual journey, based on her own personal and professional experience, in this encouraging guest post.
Guest Post: My Son and I Create a Storytelling Podcast That Advances His Bilingual Ability in a Really Fun Way
In this inspiring guest post, the actress Deepti Gupta shares her bilingual journey with her son and the podcast she has created with him to promote their minority language.
In this inspiring guest post, the actress Deepti Gupta shares her bilingual journey with her son and the podcast she has created with him to promote their minority language.
This Key Strategy Can Empower Your Child's Bilingual Ability Throughout the Childhood Years—and Even for a Whole Lifetime
The more you can "condition" your child to prefer such things as books, music, and TV in the minority language, the more you will promote the language exposure and engagement you seek.
The more you can "condition" your child to prefer such things as books, music, and TV in the minority language, the more you will promote the language exposure and engagement you seek.
Want to Raise a Bilingual Child? Remember This: You Get What You Pay For.
The greater your "investment" of time and effort, the greater your child's progress in the target language will be.
The greater your "investment" of time and effort, the greater your child's progress in the target language will be.
Try This Really Fun and Effective Activity with an Early-Reading Child or Language Learner
Here's a reading worksheet with a humorous twist for engaging children and language learners.
Here's a reading worksheet with a humorous twist for engaging children and language learners.
“Bilingual Earth”: An Exciting New Book Project (And I invite you to be part of it!)
"Bilingual Earth: Secrets of Success from Parents of Bilingual and Multilingual Children Around the World" will be available in late 2020.
"Bilingual Earth: Secrets of Success from Parents of Bilingual and Multilingual Children Around the World" will be available in late 2020.
Make the Most of the “Golden Years” of Your Minority Language Influence
Your influence over your children's minority language side is strongest during their younger years. Make the most of this time.
Your influence over your children's minority language side is strongest during their younger years. Make the most of this time.
My Bilingual Kids Are Formally Tested in Their Minority Language Ability for the First Time (And the Results Are Revealing)
My kids took the EIKEN test in Hiroshima the other day, the first time their English ability has been formally assessed.
My kids took the EIKEN test in Hiroshima the other day, the first time their English ability has been formally assessed.
13 Things You Should Definitely NOT Say to Your Bilingual Kids to Get Them Speaking Your Language
These are things I advise you *not* to say to your children in your desire to get them speaking the minority language more.
These are things I advise you *not* to say to your children in your desire to get them speaking the minority language more.
Join me on my adventures in China (through 32 photos) during my week in Beijing to attend a friend's wedding!
Bilingual Lives: Beatrice Beckmann, Founder of KinderBooks, a Subscription Service for Children's Books
Beatrice Beckmann is the mother of two and the founder of KinderBooks, a service in the U.S. that provides access to German picture books and chapter books.
Beatrice Beckmann is the mother of two and the founder of KinderBooks, a service in the U.S. that provides access to German picture books and chapter books.
My Simple Message for the New Year (And Don’t Mind My Messy Hands)
Remember the "5 P's" for success at raising bilingual or multilingual children.
Remember the "5 P's" for success at raising bilingual or multilingual children.
The Top 12 Blog Posts at Bilingual Monkeys in 2018
What were some of the most popular posts at Bilingual Monkeys in 2018? This list provides the links.
What were some of the most popular posts at Bilingual Monkeys in 2018? This list provides the links.
Update on My Son’s Bilingual Life at 11.9 Years Old: Funny Photos, Art Awards, and Junior High
This update on my son is an insider's look at his language development, just a few months before he enters junior high.
This update on my son is an insider's look at his language development, just a few months before he enters junior high.
Update on My Daughter’s Bilingual Life at 14.5 Years Old: High School, Tears, and English Tests
This update on my daughter offers a behind-the-scenes peek into the successes and struggles of a bilingual teen.
This update on my daughter offers a behind-the-scenes peek into the successes and struggles of a bilingual teen.
Look! I Shook Hands with a Kangaroo! (And Much More from Our Trip with Grandparents)
We took a memorable trip with my wife's parents--my children's Japanese grandparents--to the lovely old castle town called Hagi.
We took a memorable trip with my wife's parents--my children's Japanese grandparents--to the lovely old castle town called Hagi.
10 Board Books That I Will Hand Down to My Kids for Their Children
These are the early board books that I read most often to my kids when they were babies and toddlers.
These are the early board books that I read most often to my kids when they were babies and toddlers.
Upset About Raising Bilingual Kids? That Might Be a Very Good Thing. (Really.)
The fact that you’re upset is precisely what will now enable you to move forward more effectively and experience the greater success and joy that you seek.
The fact that you’re upset is precisely what will now enable you to move forward more effectively and experience the greater success and joy that you seek.
Bilingual Lives: Victor Santos, Creator of Innovative Language-Learning Resources
Victor Santos is the father of two and the founder of Linguacious, a maker of language-learning resources in multiple languages.
Victor Santos is the father of two and the founder of Linguacious, a maker of language-learning resources in multiple languages.
Fantastic Bilingual Book Project for Children and Parents
With the solid support of her mother, this nine-year-old girl has written and published a book in her two languages.
With the solid support of her mother, this nine-year-old girl has written and published a book in her two languages.
Something Strange Happened 2 Days After We Moved into Our New House (And Its Significance to Change and Transformation on the Bilingual Journey)
In this post I share an unusual incident and describe its deeper connection to raising bilingual and multilingual children.
In this post I share an unusual incident and describe its deeper connection to raising bilingual and multilingual children.
5 Key Ways to Fortify Your Home Environment for Bilingual Success
How can you strengthen your living space to help fuel your daily efforts and your children's language development?
How can you strengthen your living space to help fuel your daily efforts and your children's language development?
Make the Most of Your Precious Time with Grandparents, Whether Near or Far
Your time with loved ones on this earth is finite, is fleeting, so do what you realistically can to maintain an active and loving relationship.
Your time with loved ones on this earth is finite, is fleeting, so do what you realistically can to maintain an active and loving relationship.
Bilingual Lives: Ana Cristina Gluck, Author and Publisher of Multilingual Books for Children
Ana Cristina Gluck is the mother of two and the founder of ABC Multicultural, a publisher of children's books in many languages.
Ana Cristina Gluck is the mother of two and the founder of ABC Multicultural, a publisher of children's books in many languages.
Feeling Discouraged About Raising Bilingual Children? Watch This Video.
If you're feeling discouraged or frustrated about raising bilingual or multilingual kids, this fresh, empowering perspective can help.
If you're feeling discouraged or frustrated about raising bilingual or multilingual kids, this fresh, empowering perspective can help.
My Father Has Passed Away, Too
My father, Al Beck, has passed away. He died at 11:15 p.m. on May 16, 2018.
My father, Al Beck, has passed away. He died at 11:15 p.m. on May 16, 2018.
How to Create Breakthroughs in the Language Development of Bilingual Children
I share recent breakthroughs with my own kids and explain how breakthroughs can occur in your own language journey with your children.
I share recent breakthroughs with my own kids and explain how breakthroughs can occur in your own language journey with your children.
VIDEO: Important Research on Successfully Raising a Bilingual Child
Adam Beck describes important research on success rates for raising bilingual children and explains the implications of this research for parents.
Bilingual Lives: Delia Berlin, Author of Bilingual Picture Books
This new series at Bilingual Monkeys, with profiles of interesting bilingual lives, starts off by featuring the life and work of Delia Berlin.
7 Interviews with Adam Beck, Author of "Maximize Your Child's Bilingual Ability"
This post brings together seven interviews that I’ve given about raising bilingual and multilingual children through podcasts and video.
My Mother Has Passed Away
My mother, Katrine Aho, has passed away. She died at 7:54 p.m. on March 26.
Raising a Bilingual Child, a New Podcast Episode with Adam Beck, Author of "Maximize Your Child's Bilingual Ability"
Interview on raising bilingual children with Adam Beck, the founder of Bilingual Monkeys and The Bilingual Zoo.
5 Ways for Your Bilingual Child to Interact with Other Speakers of the Minority Language
How can you strengthen your children's engagement in the target language with other speakers of that language?
Interview with Hennie Jacobs, Author of the Uniquely Bilingual “Betty & Cat” Book Series
The "Betty & Cat" books are an inspired approach to bilingual picture books with the story told through code-switching, not translation.
Guest Post: 5 Key Strategies That Have Enabled Me to Successfully Foster My Son’s Bilingual Ability
In this encouraging guest post, Matthew John Thoren describes the proactive efforts that have produced happy success through the important early years of his bilingual journey.
Read the First 11 Pages of My Fun New Book for Children and Adults
Download a free PDF to read the first 11 pages of How I Lost My Ear, a rollicking adventure for all ages.
How I Lost My Ear: Fun New Novel from Adam Beck, Founder of Bilingual Monkeys, Is Now Available Worldwide
How I Lost My Ear is the captivating new novel from author Adam Beck and illustrator Simon Farrow, a humorous, high-spirited adventure for all ages.
12 Inspiring Real-Life Stories of Bilingual and Multilingual Families
Real-time case studies of how strong, steady progress is made at the bilingual aim, day by day, over the months and years of childhood.
My Bilingual Daughter Is 13. My Bilingual Son is 10. So Why Is Their Level in the Minority Language Basically the Same?
How is it that my children now have basically the same level of ability in the minority language, despite the gap of three years between them?
How the Minority Language Can Flower in Your Bilingual Child
The flowering of a child’s minority language depends on both nature and nurture.
My Kids Scream at Me Not to Lick Poisonous Mushrooms
Watch a short video of this memorable moment on our bilingual journey.
The 10 Most Popular Posts at Bilingual Monkeys in 2017
Did you see all these popular posts from this year at Bilingual Monkeys?
Burning Questions About Raising Bilingual and Multilingual Children
Have questions about raising bilingual and multilingual children? Get the answers you need from these sites and resources!
Christmas Giveaway at Bilingual Monkeys! Win a Cute Charm with “Bilingual Powers” to Help Empower Your Family’s Journey!
Enter this free giveaway by November 30 for a chance to win one of 5 cute, colorful charms that can help empower your bilingual journey!
The Perfect Christmas Gift for Bilingual and Multilingual Families
From Adam Beck, the founder of Bilingual Monkeys and The Bilingual Zoo, a book of ideas and inspiration that can help your family, and families you know, make the most of 2018 and beyond.
13 Top-Secret Research Studies on Bilingual Acquisition in Children
My informant at the shadowy U.N. agency known as Bilingualism Research and Tracking Systems (BRATS) urged me to make public this top-secret information on a range of provocative—some would say, even potentially dangerous—research studies involving bilingual acquisition in the world’s children.
The Top 20 Languages in the World
Test your knowledge! Which of the 7,099 languages in the world have the most first-language speakers?
18 Things You DON’T Need to Succeed At Raising a Bilingual Child
Did you know that there are also plenty of things you DON'T need to raise bilingual kids?
19 Things You Need to Succeed At Raising a Bilingual Child
Don't miss this fun post on bilingual success, featuring lively animated GIFs.
Please Help My Kids and Me Learn Spanish! (With Expert Advice from Jennifer Brunk of Spanish Playground)
My kids and I have been studying Spanish for two years, but want to make better progress. Can you help us?
Foreign Language Rights Now Available for Translations of This Popular Book on Raising Bilingual Children
Bilingual Adventures, the publishing imprint behind "Maximize Your Child's Bilingual Ability," is now inviting offers for the foreign language rights to this book.
"A Little Monkey Business": Another Fun, Productive Project for Language Exposure
This short film, improvised by my son and me, is a lively example of a short-term project that can promote language exposure.
This Is Embarrassing, But It’s a Story That Could Benefit Your Bilingual Journey (And Your Teeth)
There are two kinds of daily habits and these habits gradually lead, over time, to two kinds of longer-term outcomes: satisfying outcomes and dissatisfying outcomes.
Top 10 Most-Commented-On Articles at Bilingual Monkeys
Which posts at Bilingual Monkeys have generated the most comments?
7 Cool Names for Bilingual and Multilingual Sports Teams
How about some special names for sports teams made up of bilingual or multilingual kids?
The Basic Formula for Bilingual Success
Can you mix the basic formula for empowering success at raising bilingual or multilingual children?
This Key Principle for Raising Bilingual Kids Is a Vital Part of Our Efforts, From Babies to Teens
The home environment should be mindfully, proactively shaped (and reshaped), on an ongoing basis, to effectively support our bilingual aim.
Are You Making Good Choices and Decisions For Your Bilingual Journey? (And For Your Life?)
Make the most effective choices and decisions you can, for your bilingual journey and for your life as a whole.
VIDEO: 20 Things to Love About Bilingual Children
There are many things to love about bilingual (and multilingual) children. This short video shares 20 of them.
VIDEO: Your Child Wants to Be Bilingual
Watch this short video for a motivating perspective on the entire bilingual journey!
Guest Post: Creating a Little Bilingual Family—If Not Precisely By the Book
Freelance journalist Jordana Timerman shares the insightful and encouraging story of her first two years raising a bilingual child.
Recommended Resources: Great Books and Blogs for Nurturing a Child's Multicultural Spirit
These resources can nurture a child's global spirit and empathy for others--and help make this world a more peaceful place.
Look How Far We've Come On Our Bilingual Journey (And How Far You Can Go, Too)
Here's a special peek at the growth of my children's ability in the minority language over the years.
VIDEO: Funny Tongue Twisters for Kids (and English Learners of All Ages)
Watch this fun video of my original tongue twisters, featuring my cousin Andy!
VIDEO: How to Get Your Bilingual Child to Speak Your Language
Having some difficulty getting your child to speak your language? Watch this video for clear, actionable advice.
How to Deal with Unsolicited Advice, and Address Other Difficulties, on Your Bilingual Journey
Here's a two-step process for handling the difficulties and frustrations of the bilingual journey.
8 Fun Ways to Get Your Bilingual Child Loving the Minority Language More
These playful ideas can provide engaging, effective language input while nurturing a positive attitude toward the target language.
Raising Bilingual Kids? Don't Miss These Helpful Resources!
This post is a handy guide to the wide range of resources now offered by Adam Beck--many of them completely free--for parents raising bilingual or multilingual children.
This Book on Raising Bilingual Children Can Have a Powerful Impact on Your Family, Too
Here's a wonderful example of the positive impact "Maximize Your Child's Bilingual Ability" is having on families around the world.
The Most Important Point on Our Long Bilingual Journey
I've sustained my efforts for 4380 days (the first 12 years of childhood). What comes next in the teenage years?
Bilingual Kids and Grandparents: Make the Most of This Opportunity
Our time with grandparents--like blooming cherry blossoms--is precious and fleeting. Are you making the most of it?
Guest Post: Bilingual Success with a Proactive Language Strategy
In this thoughtful guest post, Bea Sieradzka offers an encouraging look at the language strategy she pursued during her son's early years.
My Daughter and I Hit a Big Milestone on Our Bilingual Journey Together
My daughter graduated from elementary school the other day, a major milestone in her life and in our bilingual journey.
VIDEO: 50 Tips for Raising Bilingual Children
Watch this video series on Bilingual Monkeys TV at YouTube.
Guest Post: Engaging Your Incredible Bilingual Child in the Minority Language
Trilingual speech-language pathologist Ana Paula Mumy offers another insightful guest post, from her personal perspective as a parent.
Here’s Clear Proof of the Basic Formula for Successfully Raising a Bilingual Child
Are you adequately addressing the two "core conditions" for success in your efforts to raise a bilingual child?
Guest Post: How to Make the Most of Reading Aloud to Your Kids in Two or More Languages
Gabriela Simmons marks World Read Aloud Day with a lively guest post that stresses the importance of reading aloud and shares useful ideas for this practice.
Guest Post: Bilingual Families and the Importance of Limiting the Influence of the Majority Language at Home
In this encouraging guest post, Amy González explains how she proactively "kicked out" the majority language from her home.
How I Got My Bilingual Daughter to Eagerly Do Her Homework in the Minority Language (Contest Update)
This playful idea can help promote motivation in children and engagement in the target language.
Hiroshima's Bilingual Child Whisperer
This article about my work appeared in the latest print issue of GetHiroshima Magazine.
Special Contest: Guess How I Handled This Problem with My Bilingual Daughter and Win a Package of Cool Prizes from Hiroshima, Japan
What creative tactic did I use to motivate my daughter when she was reluctant to open our dictionary?
Big News for 2017 at Bilingual Monkeys
What's next for Bilingual Monkeys in 2017? Find out in this first post of the new year!
The Top 10 Posts at Bilingual Monkeys for 2016
Which posts made at Bilingual Monkeys this year were the most popular?
Meeting the King's Family and Enriching My Bilingual Children's Language Exposure
Are you making active use of "imaginary talk" in your interactions with your kids, to promote greater exposure to the minority language?
VIDEO: Lively Discussion on Raising Bilingual Children with Adam Beck of Bilingual Monkeys and Amanda Hsiung Blodgett of Miss Panda Chinese
Adam Beck and Amanda Hsiung Blodgett discuss a range of key issues related to raising bilingual kids in this nearly hour-long video.
The Most Beautiful Video You Might Ever See About a Bilingual Family
This video had me laughing a lot, until the very end...when it moved me so deeply, it made me cry.
Recommended Resources: Lovely Bilingual Products for Families and Schools from Lil'ollo
Lil'ollo creates very appealing resources for families and schools on a bilingual or multilingual journey.
Guest Post: Promote the Minority Language With Small Bilingual Children Through Playful Games and Activities
Filipa Pinto describes her personal efforts as a parent and workshop leader of small children and offers useful suggestions for specific games and activities that are both fun and effective for language development.
My Friend Died and Left Behind This Important Message For Us All
My friend touched my life one last time with this message.
Guest Post: Losing Your Second Language? 4 Tips to Reboot Your Bilingual Journey
In this encouraging guest post, Keli Garcia Allen offers helpful advice for when you get sidetracked from your bilingual quest.
Story Exchange, a Great Way to Get Bilingual Kids Writing
Learn about a really fun and effective idea for writing practice, and read some example stories from my own family.
Guest Post: What I’ve Learned From My First Two Years of Bilingual Parenting
Jonathan Fisher reflects on his first two years of bilingual parenting and traces the evolution of his thoughts and actions.
What the World Is Saying About My Book On Raising Bilingual Children
The early response to Maximize Your Child's Bilingual Ability, from professionals in the field and parents around the world, has been extremely positive.
7 Steps to Get Your Bilingual Child Using the Minority Language More Actively
Follow these 7 steps to strengthen your child's bilingual development and promote more active use of the minority language.
Guest Post: Bilingualism Is a Way of Life
Eliza Sarnacka-Mahoney stresses how raising bilingual children is an entire wide-ranging lifestyle.
Recommended Resources: “Maintaining Your Second Language” for Non-Native Parents, Language Professionals, and Language Learners
Eve Lindemuth Bodeux has written a very helpful book that offers a wealth of tips and tools for those seeking to strengthen an additional language.
A Powerful Perspective on Raising Bilingual Children: The Great “Iceberg” of Bilingualism
Is your "iceberg" forming as you hope?
Guest Post: Regrets Over My Monolingual Childhood Have Fueled My Passion For Raising Bilingual Kids
Chontelle Bonfiglio shares the touching story of her monolingual past, and the bilingual future she is determined to create for her own two kids.
Guest Post: Want to Make and Sell a Language-Related Product? Here’s How I Did It!
Una McCarthy-Fakhry, the founder of LoveYourLingo, shares her experience and expertise for budding entrepreneurs.
Guest Post: A Monolingual Parent’s Quest to Raise a Bilingual Child
Llacey Simmons, a monolingual parent, relates her early efforts to nurture her son's acquisition of a second language.
Guest Post: A Writer’s Perspective on the Value of Bilingual Books for Children, Families, and Schools
Author Delia Berlin shares her thoughtful perspective on how bilingual books can be beneficial in homes and classrooms.
Guest Post: Yes, You Will Have Haters. Keep Speaking to Your Kids In the Minority Language Anyway.
Sam Zerin shares his personal struggles, as well as helpful suggestions, on the challenge of speaking the minority language in public.
WANTED: Good Guest Posts for Bilingual Monkeys, a Popular Blog about Raising Bilingual Children
Want to write a guest post for Bilingual Monkeys? See this post for the full details!
Expert Annick De Houwer Responds to Readers' Questions on Bilingual Children
Annick De Houwer, a noted authority on child bilingualism, offers helpful thoughts to parents of bilingual kids.
Here's the Bright Side to Bilingual Kids Getting Sick
Make the most of a sick day by promoting input in the minority language.
The Larger Arc of Captive Reading—and Our Lives As Human Beings
I've come to the final step of my longtime efforts using captive reading to promote the language and literacy development of my kids.
Take This Quiz on Bilingual Acquisition in Children! How Many Will You Get Right?
Another quiz on raising bilingual kids, this time based on the book Bilingual First Language Acquisition by Annick De Houwer.
Recommended Resources: Books on Bilingual Acquisition by Prominent Researcher Annick De Houwer
Annick De Houwer is the author of the books Bilingual First Language Acquisition and An Introduction to Bilingual Development.
7 Things My Kids Like About Me
I asked my children to make a list: "7 Things I Like About Daddy."
These Are the Building Blocks of a Successful Bilingual Journey (and a Closer Bond) with Your Kids
What are the building blocks for promoting strong language development in our children?
My Favorite Metaphor for Raising Bilingual Children
Not far from my house in Hiroshima, Japan are several wide rice paddies nestled among apartment buildings and homes...
How Far Into the Future Do Your Efforts Today Matter?
My family and I were looking at old photographs last night and made an astonishing discovery...
Bilingual Travelers: Language Immersion and Lessons Learned in Mexico
In this guest post, Christine Gilbert shares the bilingual development of her English-speaking children as they learn Spanish in Mexican schools.
Raising a Bilingual Child? Raise the Odds of Success for Your Family!
What are the odds of bilingual success for your situation? How can you improve those odds?
45 Key Questions Every Parent Raising a Bilingual Child Should Ask
Ask and address these important questions to strengthen your efforts and your success at raising bilingual children.
3,333 Posts About Raising Bilingual Children
The Bilingual Zoo has become a very lively forum for parents of bilingual children around the world.
Movie Project with My Kids: "Purple Monster in the Woods" (Watch Now!)
Short-term projects--like this little movie I created with my kids--can be a productive way of enhancing exposure to the minority language.
The Beauty of Cherry Blossoms and Bilingual Children
Beautiful, fleeting cherry blossoms are a strong reminder to appreciate and make the most of our days as parents of bilingual kids.
Want Stronger Success at Raising Bilingual Children? Repeat After Me: Shannon Shorter!
A penchant for language play is hugely rewarding, making your efforts to nurture the target language more productive and more enjoyable.
This Is When You Should Give Up the Idea of Raising a Bilingual Child
What if you've done your "very best" but you're still "failing" at your bilingual aim?
Recommended Resources: "Think Bilingual", an Innovative Language-Learning App for Kids
"Think Bilingual" is a unique new app that provides an immersion experience for language learning through a playful, game-like design.
Nobody’s Perfect at Raising Bilingual Children
To raise a bilingual child, the important thing isn't perfection, it's perseverance.
Recommended Resources: Inspiring Podcasts About Raising Bilingual Children
Get informed and inspired by listening to the podcasts Bilingual Kids Rock and Bilingual Avenue.
From My Morning Walk: Photos of My Neighborhood, Thoughts on My Bilingual Journey
A virtual experience of my regular morning walk and my reflections on the bilingual journey.
Why Saying a Lot of Dumb Things to Your Bilingual Kids Is So Valuable to Their Language Development
Making regular use of "imaginary talk" is a key tactic for promoting a child's language development as well as a playful parent-child bond.
Blogging Carnival: The Many Things We Love About Bilingual Kids
In this blogging carnival for Valentine's Day, a variety of bloggers share the things they love about bilingual children.
Bilingual Travelers: Wedding Bells and a Bilingual Boost in the United States
In this guest post, Jonathan “Fish” Fisher recounts a trip to the U.S. and its impact on his son's language development.
How to Effectively Use and Control Digital Devices with Your Kids
How should parents of bilingual kids make use of digital devices to effectively nurture the minority language?
How a Globe-Trotting Alligator Helped One Family Find Greater Fun and Success on Their Bilingual Journey
A wonderful project, pursued by a family in the U.S., that brought them closer to the world and boosted their bilingual aim.
7 Must-Make Resolutions for Parents Raising Bilingual Kids
Important resolutions for making productive efforts this year, and every year.
Bilingual Child Explodes in Code-Switching Rant on Christmas Eve
What happens when Santa tells a little girl that she won't be getting a Wii video game console for Christmas?
51 Great Quotes on Language for Language Lovers, Teachers, and Learners
For all language lovers, teachers, and learners, enjoy this big list of quotes on the marvelous phenomenon of human language!
Parents of Bilingual Kids, Take Time to Relax and Recharge Your Energy!
Raising bilingual children demands persistent effort, but the foundation for this effort is our own good physical and mental well-being.
Why Raising a Bilingual Child Matters in a World Gone Mad
From the horror of Hiroshima to the terror of Paris, the world is mad. Why does raising bilingual kids even matter?
Recommended Resources: Lovely Picture Book That Celebrates Being Bilingual
A Fish in Foreign Waters, by Laura Caputo-Wickham, is a picture book that can help promote a positive attitude in bilingual kids.
10 Frightful Monsters Explain the Many Benefits of Being Bilingual
Human beings aren’t the only ones that benefit from bilingual ability. I sat down with 10 monsters for exclusive interviews on their experience of being bilingual or feeding on bilinguals.
Bilingual Travelers: Blue Skies and Bilingual Success in France
In this guest post, Michele Cherie shares a trip to France which had a powerful impact on her children's growing ability in French.
18 Ways to Get Bilingual Kids Using the Minority Language More in Your Car
What activities can parents pursue in the car to promote use of the target language and stretch language development?
Make History. Raise a Bilingual Child.
A visit to the old silver mining town of Iwami Ginzan reveals how parents raising bilingual kids can make history.
How Do You Spell B.I.L.I.N.G.U.A.L.?
Fun photos from the past are used to illustrate some of the basic elements that have made up our bilingual journey to date.
Guest Post: Battling the Majority Language Giant (While Feeling Like a Minority Language Gnome)
Ana Paula Mumy, a trilingual speech-language pathologist, shares helpful strategies for promoting a bilingual child's use of the minority language.
The Top 5 Regrets of Parents Who Have Had Difficulty Raising Bilingual Kids
What are the biggest regrets of parents who have struggled to raise bilingual children?
The “Home Run Book”: A Key Idea for Promoting a Child’s Language Development
What is a "home run book" and how is it important to the goal of raising a bilingual child?
Bilingual Children and Distant Grandparents: What We’ve Done
How can the parents of bilingual kids create stronger ties with distant grandparents and other family members?
3 Steps to Success in Raising Bilingual Children
What are the three essential steps to the process of raising a bilingual child?
22 Funny Tongue Twisters for Kids (And Why Tongue Twisters Are Terrific for Language Development)
Tongue twisters are a fun and effective way to promote a child's language development.
Raising Bilingual Children: 17 Actions That Will Strengthen the Odds of Success
The more of these actions you pursue, the more you will raise the odds of achieving the aim of your bilingual journey.
Why I’m Happy My 8-Year-Old Son Called Me a Butthead
It’s true. My son called me a butthead and I couldn’t be happier.
Free eBook for Parents Raising Bilingual Children from Adam Beck, the Founder of Bilingual Monkeys
Instant Inspiration for Parents Raising Bilingual Kids is designed to empower your daily efforts and long-term success. Download it now.
“I Can’t Do This Alone”: Remarkable Message from a Bilingual Toddler
My friend was shocked at the message his daughter had written to him. In fact, I think this will make an important difference to his whole bilingual journey.
Guest Post: Speech-Language Pathologist Tells All About Bilingualism, Speech, and Language Delays
Speech-language pathologist Ana Paula Mumy has written a masterful guest post on language acquisition and language delays.
Do You Really Have Enough Resources in the Minority Language? (Hint: The Answer is Always “No.”)
Resources in the minority language are the wood needed to fuel the fire of bilingual development.
The Ultimate Crossword Puzzle About Raising Bilingual Kids!
Try this cool crossword puzzle, created by Adam Beck, the founder of Bilingual Monkeys and The Bilingual Zoo.
He Lived for 29,771 Days (or How to Paint a Beautiful Portrait of a Bilingual Child)
What can a conceptual artist teach us about the challenge of raising bilingual children?
New Research Shows Reading Aloud Promotes Brain Activity and Language Development
The first “direct evidence of effects on the brain” adds weight to the importance of reading aloud in the minority language to bilingual children.
INFOGRAPHIC: 9 Lesser-Known Myths About Bilingualism
A new infographic, for bilinguals and parents of bilingual children, on bilingualism and its myths.
Recommended Resources: “Family Language Learning” by Christine Jernigan
Family Language Learning: Learn Another Language, Raise Bilingual Children, by Christine Jernigan, is a valuable book for non-native parents.
VIDEO: Adam Beck Goes Bonkers in Interview, Reveals “Crazy Secret” for Bilingual Success
Could this "crazy secret" help maximize your children's bilingual ability?
VIDEO: Wacky Interview with My Bilingual Daughter
Engage your bilingual children in the use of their minority language with a playful interview!
This Might Be the Very Best Thing About Raising Bilingual Kids (And It’s Probably Not What You Expect)
When all is said and done, this could be the greatest benefit of the bilingual journey.
WARNING: Do Not, Under Any Circumstances, Read This Blog Post About Raising Bilingual Children
You mustn’t read this blog post! It’s much too dangerous! It contains dreadful secrets you don’t want to know!
How Many Steps is the Bilingual Journey? (With Revealing Photos and Video!)
The bilingual journey is thousands of steps, uphill, but they only need to be taken one at a time.
50 Activities with Animals to Engage Your Bilingual Kids in the Minority Language
To get your bilingual children using their minority language, turn to activities featuring animals.
Adam's Fables for Raising Bilingual Kids
Three short fables, in the spirit of Aesop, on the theme of raising bilingual children.
Do This One Simple Thing and I Guarantee You Greater Success On Your Bilingual Journey
What simple action, made into a regular habit, can have a powerful impact on your daily efforts and your children's bilingual development?
The High and Lows of Another Week Raising Bilingual Kids
Four stories from one week in my bilingual journey, to offer insight into my struggles and successes, and inspiration for your own efforts.
INFOGRAPHIC: 10 Things I Love About Bilingual Kids
A fun infographic for Valentine's Day (and every day)!
Recommended Resources: Nathalia’s Lively Bilingual Music
For families seeking to support the Spanish side of their children, Nathalia's bilingual music is ideal for bright, bouncy language exposure.
37 Zen Sayings for Parents Raising Bilingual Kids
Thoughts for reflection, in the spirit of Zen.
VIDEO: With Bilingual Kids, There’s a Madness to My Method
Maximize your children's engagement in the minority language by matching their madness for play.
The Magical Ingredient for Motivating Your Bilingual Child
How can you kindle more motivation in your children for the tasks you give them?
My 6 Resolutions for 2015 and 6 Ways I Can Help You with Yours
Learn what my resolutions are for 2015 and how I can lend support to your own aims for this year.
Big Breakthrough with My Bilingual Daughter?
I finally found some books that seem to have made my bilingual daughter a more eager reader in the minority language.
ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS...
What surprising thing does this baby want for Christmas?
The 12 Days of Christmas for Raising Bilingual Kids
Hear my kids singing (and screaming) this updated Christmas carol!
What You Don't Know About François Grosjean
Most people know only the professional side of François Grosjean, the noted authority on bilingualism. This post reveals his remarkable personal story.
Interview with a Father Raising a Bilingual Child with Autism, Part 2
Eugene Ryan, a university teacher and researcher studying bilingualism and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), continues his personal story.
Recommended Resources: “Bringing up a Bilingual Child” by Rita Rosenback
"Bringing up a Bilingual Child," by Rita Rosenback, is a sensible, strategic guide for new parents wishing to raise a bilingual child.
The 5 Biggest Sacrifices I’ve Made to Raise Bilingual Children
The bilingual journey can bring many benefits to children and their families, but sacrifices must be made in order to reap them.
Recommended Resources: “Little Lexicon,” a Fun, Innovative App for Budding Bilingual Kids and Confused Loved Ones
Ryan Cole has created an app that not only enables parents to note their children’s first words, it even translates these words into other languages so loved ones can comprehend them, too.
3 Essential Ways Parents Raising Bilingual Children Should Be Like Zombies
What important zombie traits should parents adopt in their efforts to raise children with good bilingual ability?
Bilingual Travelers: Sweet Exposure to Language and Culture in Germany
In this guest post, Mayken Brünings shares a trip to Germany which gave a boost to the German side of her daughter's bilingual ability.
A Lost Teddy Bear in a Hiroshima Disaster
I came across this teddy bear in the middle of the disaster zone...
Secrets of a Successful Homework Routine, Part 2
A daily homework routine is central to my efforts at home. In this follow-up post, I share the strategies and resources of our current routine.
Bilingual Travelers: Smooth Sailing to Language and Culture in Ireland
In this guest post, Peter Martin recounts a trip to Ireland with his family that advanced his children's language ability and cultural awareness.
Why Your Bilingual Child is Tied, Profoundly, to Hiroshima and Peace
Can bilingual children play a special role in making the world a more peaceful place?
Have You Failed at Raising a Bilingual Child?
Lately, I’ve heard from several parents with the same concern: they feel that they’ve “failed” at their goal of raising a bilingual child.
Why I Don’t Want My Kids to Do Well in School
When I visited my children's school for "parents' day," I realized something important about their bilingual development.
Bilingual Travelers: Spring in Hungary Brings Blooming Language Ability
In this guest post, Nellie Robertson recounts a trip to Hungary with her children that gave a big boost to their minority language.
I Do Not Teach Children. I Give Them Joy.
The most effective way to promote learning involves inspiring joy in the child's experience of that area of knowledge or skill.
Another Fun Quiz on Bilingualism! Test Your Knowledge!
Try this quiz on bilingualism, with questions based on information in Colin Baker's book "A Parents' and Teachers' Guide to Bilingualism."
Recommended Resources: "A Parents' and Teachers' Guide to Bilingualism" by Colin Baker
"A Parents’ and Teachers’ Guide to Bilingualism" is a comprehensive and authoritative book that can serve as a core reference for homes and schools.
How Nearly Getting Myself Killed by a Kite and Having to Pay a Parking Ticket for $150 Helped My Children’s Bilingual Ability
Even your failures are successes, in a way, when they're experienced in the minority language.
8 Meditations on Time and the Art of Raising a Bilingual Child
Time is the very fabric of our lives, and the way we perceive time, and use (or misuse) time, is at the heart of our bilingual journey.
Very positive podcast review of my book Bilingual Success Stories Around the World at Kletsheads 
