When my husband and I discovered we were expecting our first daughter, we made a conscious decision: We wanted to raise our future children in a loving, fun, and bilingual environment. As someone who was already bilingual, I understood the countless benefits that come with speaking multiple languages.

However, despite my familiarity with two languages, I found myself unsure of how to begin raising bilingual children. So I embarked on a journey of research, seeking out resources that would guide us through the process.

Early childhood education and development have always intrigued me. During my pursuit of an advanced degree in psychology, I found myself particularly drawn to this area of study. Though I didn’t end up working with children professionally, I am now a mother of three who has experienced firsthand the wonders of child development in the context of language learning.

And I couldn’t be prouder of the decision my husband and I made to raise our children bilingually. Witnessing the myriad benefits they are already experiencing fills me with immense joy, especially knowing they are growing up embracing both our family’s Argentinean-American cultures and their parents’ Latino-American and Jewish-American origins.

Here are just a few of the reasons why I am passionate about bilingualism, and why I believe it’s one of the greatest gifts we can give our children:

1. Cognitive benefits

Bilingualism is not merely speaking two languages; it’s about fundamentally altering the brain to enhance cognitive abilities. As Dr. Ellen Bialystok, a renowned researcher in the field of bilingualism, eloquently describes it, “Bilingualism has consequences for our understanding of how language is represented in the mind and brain.” Exposure to multiple languages fosters sharper cognitive skills, improved problem-solving abilities, and greater mental flexibility in children.

2. Cultural understanding and appreciation

Dr. François Grosjean, author of “Bilingual: Life and Reality,” underscores the significance of cultural immersion in bilingualism, stating, “Bilingualism is not just about knowing two languages; it is about living in two cultures.” By speaking multiple languages, children gain a profound appreciation for diverse customs, traditions, and perspectives, nurturing empathy and instilling a sense of global citizenship.

3. Academic excellence

Extensive research consistently demonstrates that bilingual children often excel academically compared to their monolingual counterparts. As noted by Dr. Patricia Kuhl, co-director of the Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences, “Learning a second language can be a powerful tool for improving children’s cognitive abilities, not just in language but in other areas as well.” Bilingualism enhances literacy skills, elevates academic achievement, and broadens the horizons of educational possibilities for children.

4. Social and emotional skills

Bilingualism transcends mere linguistic proficiency; it serves as a bridge connecting people and cultures. Dr. Laura-Ann Petitto, a cognitive neuroscientist, emphasizes the social benefits of bilingualism, asserting, “Speaking two languages can open up new social networks and enrich interpersonal relationships.” Bilingual children develop robust communication skills, heightened empathy, and a broader worldview, empowering them to thrive in diverse social settings.

I firmly believe bilingualism is not merely a novelty or a skill my children possess; it is the cornerstone upon which they will build their life journeys. By embracing multiple languages from an early age, my children will have the foundation they need to navigate the complexities of the world and pursue their dreams with confidence and resilience.