Bilingual Learning: What Educators See, and Why It Works

By Amina MAINE, Primary Principal

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Where My Story Begins: A Life Between Languages

As a former English teacher and Head of the English Department at the Lycée—and now as Primary Principal—I have witnessed the lasting impact of bilingual education firsthand. My passion for languages and education is deeply personal: I grew up in Rouen, surrounded by French, Arabic, and Kabyle at home. Early on, I learned to move naturally between languages and cultures, especially during summers in Algeria. For me, language has always been a powerful way to connect, express identity, and understand others.

At the Lycée, I found my tribe : I work alongside a dedicated team of professionals who believe that a globally minded future begins with the power of language. Our bilingual approach, anchored in early immersion in French during the preschool years, provides students with a solid foundation for multilingualism and a broader understanding of the world. Beyond fluency, we aim to cultivate the ability to think deeply and creatively in multiple languages. And yet, as powerful as this model truly is, we recognize that bilingual education comes with its share of concerns and fears among families which we address with intentionality and care.

 

– An example of co-teaching with French and English Preschool teachers presenting a subject in both languages.

 

Mixed Languages, Clear Thinking: What Bilingualism Really Looks Like

Some begin stronger in French, others in English, and others in a different home language as we count over 30 different languages in the Lycée community! Over time, as students develop their verbal skills, they naturally balance and shift their language abilities. This gymnastics of the brain is an essential and normal part of their bilingual development. Therefore trusting this journey is key.

In fact,  I can see this dynamic firsthand in the way my bilingual children express themselves in the early primary years. They communicate efficiently—choosing the language that best conveys their thoughts, often switching between languages or integrating English words into French sentences. Although it might appear inconsistent, this behavior reflects a high level of linguistic proficiency—their brains are simply selecting the most effective words to convey their ideas.

For children already exposed to a language other than French or English at home, our program acts as a seamless extension of their linguistic environment. We celebrate these home languages—what a colleague fondly called "langue doudou" in French, meaning the “comfort language.” For example, this year, first graders wrote haikus both in French and in their home language. In this grade they also speak Portuguese, Swedish, Spanish, Arabic… I truly believe that experiences such as these enrich our students’ learning experience and allow them to embrace all parts of their identity.

 

– Even Math is taught in two languages: vocabulary and concepts are presented from the two perpectives.

Dispelling Doubts about the “Bilingual Delay” Myth 

At the Lycée, we commonly address parents’ concerns about bilingual education, particularly the myth of “bilingual delay.” They are worried that vocabulary may develop more slowly, impacting standardized test scores, or that bilingualism may slow down their learning. This is largely disproven by research.

While young bilingual children may initially mix languages or have a smaller vocabulary in each language, as discussed earlier, this is normal and temporary. It reflects sophisticated linguistic processing, not confusion or delay. Over time, bilingual learners often surpass monolingual peers in cognitive and academic areas. Recognizing this natural developmental pattern helps dispel common misunderstandings.

In fact, bilingual learning delivers remarkable cognitive benefits. Research consistently shows that bilingual students often have improved memory, stronger focus, and enhanced problem-solving skills. Their brains, strong from that constant switching between linguistic systems, also demonstrate greater cognitive agility and flexibility. We observe these benefits every day at the Lycée. Our students adapt quickly to new challenges, perform well academically, and thrive in multilingual environments.

They also develop confidence navigating different linguistic and cultural worlds. We see them express themselves differently in English and French, reflecting the natural shifts in language dominance over time. When they start making jokes, playing with puns, or using idioms in both languages, it shows that they aren’t just learning—they are living the language.

 

– At the Lycée, languages are valued and the linguistic richness of its international community is celebrated.

Don’t just take our word for it

Through ongoing assessments—including French national evaluations and MAP testing in both languages—we closely monitor student progress and provide support where needed. Our data consistently shows that by middle school, our students exceed academic expectations. Beyond statistics, our alumni often share how their bilingual education has been a major advantage in university and their careers, confirming the long-term benefits of this approach.

Expertise That Makes the Difference

Bilingual teaching is inherently more complex than traditional instruction—it requires pedagogical expertise and experienced educators, careful coordination, deep cultural awareness, and experience in building cross-linguistic bridges and balancing cognitive, linguistic, and emotional development across two learning systems.

Our teaching teams work collaboratively across languages to design integrated learning experiences. From Preschool onward, bilingual projects encourage connections between French and English. For instance, students might study the same story in both languages, comparing vocabulary, themes, and ideas. During bilingual circle time, children engage in translanguaging—drawing from all their linguistic resources to express themselves fully. These experiences build literacy, deepen understanding, and spark creativity.

 

– From Preschool through High School, students enjoy and learn with books in both English and French, developing appreciation and fluency with both languages and cultures. 

Every Learner, Fully Supported

Supporting each child’s bilingual journey is a priority. We provide targeted reading support, speech therapy in French when needed, and personalized academic assistance in both languages. Our Learning and Wellness team works closely with teachers and families to ensure every student receives the help they need. Students also benefit from authentic opportunities to practice French outside the classroom—through cultural outings, global learning trips, and immersion experiences—making the language come alive.

It Takes a Village: The Role of Families in Bilingual Success

Family involvement is essential to bilingual success as bilingual learning may ask more of our students. Only when parents show enthusiasm and support at home can children be motivated to invest themselves into growing in both languages. Activities like reading books, listening to music, celebrating milestones, and attending school camps reinforce learning. All parents and caregivers, regardless of their French language ability, play a crucial role and we are here to support them every step of the way.

In fact, many non–French-speaking parents are often amazed when their children act as interpreters during trips abroad! Our students feel comfortable with different accents and cultural nuances, because at the Lycée, they have the opportunity to grow up in a rich multilingual and multicultural community. This openness and adaptability prepare them to engage empathetically in an interconnected world.

– Our Seniors, after a uniquely enriching, four year college counseling program, leave the Lycée knowing and choosing the path that best fit their personality and ambitions.

From Multilingual Minds to Meaningful Futures

At the Lycée, we believe bilingualism opens doors—not just academically, but socially and culturally. It cultivates empathy, adaptability, and a mindset oriented toward global citizenship. These qualities prepare students to succeed in international higher education and diverse professional environments. Our graduates’ university placements and career achievements powerfully demonstrate the lasting impact of bilingual education.

Conclusion: Investing in Your Child’s Future

An education rooted in two languages is not just an academic goal—it’s an investment in your child’s future. The cognitive advantages, expanded worldview, and cultural literacy developed through bilingualism will benefit them throughout their lives.

We warmly invite prospective families to experience the vibrant, enriching environment at the Lycée where the power of bilingual learning truly comes to life. Visit our campus, attend an event, or connect with our admissions team to discover how a Lycée education can empower your child to thrive in a globalized world.

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