One of the most common, and completely understandable questions we as bilingual educators hear from families is:
“When will my child learn to read in English?”
The short answer is: they will.
But the more meaningful answer involves understanding how bilingual children build the foundation for reading and why their path may look a little different from that of monolingual children.
Early reading skills start sooner than many expect.
Reading Builds on a Foundation of Language
Before children can begin to read, they need to develop a strong command of spoken language. This means:
Understanding how language works
Recognizing the sounds that make up words
Building a broad and meaningful vocabulary
Connecting symbols and words to real experiences
At Tessa, children develop these skills in their target language first through stories, songs, conversations, and purposeful writing and drawing (learn more about our 80:20 Immersion Stage here). By the time formal reading instruction begins, children already understand that print carries meaning, and they have spent years immersed in rich, meaningful language experiences.
The Role of English in the Early Years
In Nursery through Pre-K, English is the social language of the playground and lunchroom. While children are immersed in Spanish, French, or Mandarin for instruction, they still hear, speak, and build oral language in English every day.
In Kindergarten, we introduce daily English literacy instruction alongside continued immersion. By this point, children are developmentally ready to begin learning formal reading strategies, and they are able to draw on the sound awareness, vocabulary, and symbolic thinking they have developed in the target language.
This is when English literacy begins to take shape, but it is not starting from scratch. It is built on a deep foundation of early literacy in another language.
Reading in Two Languages Is a Strength
Some families worry that learning in a second language first may delay reading in English. In fact, research shows the opposite.
Bilingual children may sometimes start formal reading a little later than monolingual peers, but they often catch up quickly and show strengths in areas such as:
Comprehension
Metalinguistic awareness (understanding how language works)
Vocabulary depth
Problem-solving and cognitive flexibility
Bilingual readers may take a different path, but it is one that leads to powerful long-term gains.
Research suggests that bilingualism impacts children’s ultimate acquisition of literacy via the beneficial effects of bilingualism overall.
We Follow the Child, Not the Clock
At Tessa, we support each child at their developmental stage. Some children begin decoding in their target language first. Others begin blending sounds in English. Many begin both at once.
We observe their strengths, track their progress across both languages, and ensure they feel confident, motivated, and joyful as readers.
In our next and final post of this series, we will explore the long-term benefits of bilingualism and biliteracy, not just for school but for life.
Are you ready to explore the only international leading private school in Hoboken?
National Literacy Trust. (2017). Bilingualism and Literacy: A Research Briefing.
Genesee, F., & Geva, E. (2006). Cross-linguistic Relationships in Second Language Reading Development: An Overview.
U.S. Department of Education. (2015). Dual Language Learners in the Early Years: Getting Ready to Succeed in School.
August, D., & Shanahan, T. (2006). Developing Literacy in Second-Language Learners: Report of the National Literacy Panel on Language-Minority Children and Youth.
Espinosa, L. M. (2015). Getting It Right for Young Children from Diverse Backgrounds.
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In our last post, we explored how early literacy grows through meaningful play and inquiry in a language-rich environment. One of the most exciting parts of this journey is watching children begin to write, often long before they’re formally taught how.
At Tessa, writing doesn’t start with a pencil and a worksheet. It starts with ideas, stories, and expression. When children feel like they have something to say, they begin to explore how to say it through marks, symbols, drawings, and eventually, words. This is true whether they’re speaking Spanish, French, Mandarin, or English.
With patience and creativity, educators at Tessa International School build a supportive and dynamic learning environment that champions bilingual literacy.
Writing Begins with Symbolic Thinking
Before children write actual words, they first need to understand that writing represents meaning. This begins with drawing, a form of storytelling and idea-sharing, and grows into more intentional mark-making.
Children might:
Draw a picture of their family and add lines or squiggles to represent names or feelings
Use letter-like shapes or familiar characters they’ve seen in books
Label parts of a science sketch using invented spelling in the target language
Attempt to write words phonetically, using the sounds they hear
This is called emergent writing, and it’s a powerful step in literacy development. It shows that children are making connections between language, sound, and print.
Phonological Awareness and Vocabulary Guide the Way
As children begin writing, they rely heavily on their phonological awareness—their ability to hear and play with the sounds in language—and on the vocabulary they’ve been building since toddlerhood.
For example:
A child who knows the word chat in French and can hear the /ʃ/ sound may try to write it as “sha.”
A child exploring rhyming words in Spanish may begin to notice spelling patterns that go with sound patterns.
In Mandarin, where characters represent whole ideas, children begin by copying and experimenting with brushstrokes or shapes that hold meaning.
The more confident children are in speaking and listening, the more confident they become in representing language on paper.
Two Languages, One Writing Journey
Because our children are developing literacy in more than one language, their writing development is dynamic. They may mix languages, switch sounds, or bring vocabulary from one language into another. This is a natural part of bilingual development and a sign that children are drawing from a broad toolkit of knowledge.
One misunderstood behavior, which is often taken as evidence for confusion, is when bilingual children mix words from two languages in the same sentence. This is known as code mixing. In fact, code mixing is a normal part of bilingual development, and bilingual children actually have good reasons to code mix.
Writing a word in English using French spelling patterns
Labeling a picture partly in Mandarin and partly in English
Inventing spelling based on how a word sounds in their dominant language
This cross-linguistic transfer is not confusion. It is evidence of deep thinking and flexibility.
Read more about how to support a bilingual toddler.
At Tessa, we support this growth by creating intentional opportunities for children to write for real purposes: telling stories, labeling observations, sharing opinions, or making signs for the classroom. We celebrate every step, from the first scribble to the first sentence, knowing that each mark carries meaning.
In our next post, we’ll look at how all of these early literacy experiences set the stage for formal reading instruction and how bilingual children develop strong reading skills in English and beyond.
Sources & Further Reading
National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). (2019). Understanding Emergent Writing: Young Children Learning to Write.
Castro, D. C., Páez, M., Dickinson, D. K., & Frede, E. (2011). Promoting Language and Literacy in Young Dual Language Learners: Research, Practice, and Policy. Child Development Perspectives.
Espinosa, L. M. (2015). Getting it Right for Young Children from Diverse Backgrounds: Applying Research to Improve Practice with a Focus on Dual Language Learners. Pearson.
Rowe, D. W., & Neitzel, C. (2010). Interest and Agency in 2- and 3-Year-Olds’ Participation in Emergent Writing. Reading Research Quarterly, 45(2), 169–195.
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services & U.S. Department of Education. (2017). Policy Statement on Supporting the Development of Children Who Are Dual Language Learners in Early Childhood Programs.
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Raising a bilingual child is an inspiring journey that combines both excitement and thoughtful considerations. “Will early bilingualism slow down their speech? Will they mix up the languages and get confused?” These common questions come from your care and love.
Fortunately, supported by decades of research, the encouraging news is this: your child is naturally equipped to acquire more than one language from an early age, and with the right environment, that ability blossoms with ease and excitement. Keep reading to learn why early bilingualism is a remarkable gift that nurtures your child’s long-term development.
Learning a second language earlier and for a longer period is most likely to lead to proficiency.
Why Young Brains Thrive on Bilingualism (or Multilingualism)
Natural Language Learners
Early childhood is a prime period when children’s brains are especially receptive to learning languages. Research indicates that infants as early as 20 months can recognize and differentiate between two languages for efficient comprehension. This innate ability to absorb the sounds, patterns, and grammatical structures of multiple languages happens effortlessly during the early years, but it gradually diminishes as children grow older. A study from cognitive scientists at MIT shows that learners who begin acquiring a second language after the age of 10 are less likely to reach native-like proficiency. This reinforces the importance of beginning bilingual education as early as possible.
Cognitive Advantages
Children exposed to two languages from an early age often show enhanced cognitive flexibility and executive functioning. Skills such as attention control, problem-solving, and task switching develop through the brain’s ongoing management of multiple linguistic systems. More importantly, these benefits don’t disappear with age, they continue to support academic performance and real-world functioning well into adulthood.
Language Confusions or Delays? No!
Numerous research has debunked this common misconception that learning two languages might lead to confusion or delay. In fact, children achieve the same milestones in language development at a similar pace as monolingual children, provided they receive consistent and meaningful exposure to both languages.
Early exposure to another language ignites children’s learning.
The Long-Term Benefits of Bilingualism
Academic Achievement
Bilingualism enhances brain function in ways that promote academic success. The analytical and reasoning skills fostered by dual-language learning contribute to higher performance, especially in reading comprehension and mathematical problem-solving.
Enhanced Communication Skills
Bilingual individuals often develop superior communication skills, including the ability to interpret non-verbal cues and adapt language use based on context. These skills are invaluable in both personal and professional settings.
Cultural Awareness
Exposure to more than one language also means exposure to more than one culture. Bilingual children are more likely to appreciate cultural diversity, show empathy, and engage with others from different backgrounds. In today’s interconnected world, these traits are as essential as academic success. Read more about how to cultivate global awareness here.
Future Opportunities
The professional advantages of bilingualism are clear. A 2019 U.S. employer survey revealed that 9 out of 10 companies rely on employees who speak languages other than English. Over half reported that the demand for bilingual and multilingual professionals would rise significantly within the next five years, particularly in sectors related to business development and global expansion.
How Tessa International School’s Nursery Program Foster Bilingualism
At Tessa International School, we offer world-class bilingual education for ages 2-10, offering immersion tracks in French, Spanish, and Mandarin. Unlike other daycare programs, our nursery program is uniquely designed to introduce a second language through joyful, play-based learning that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and confidence.
A Bilingual Program: As highlighted above, the earlier children start with a second language, the more naturally they acquire it. Our nursery students benefit from daily exposure to two languages in meaningful contexts, helping them grow into confident communicators and culturally aware individuals.
A World-Class Education: Guided by the framework of the International Baccalaureate (IB), our curriculum promotes inquiry-based learning. Our “roadmap” allows for exploration and flexibility, empowering even our youngest learners to follow their curiosity, take initiative, and begin developing the habits of lifelong learning.
A Play-Based Curriculum: Play is more than just fun—it’s a vital part of how young children learn and make sense of the world. Our curriculum blends purposeful activities with space for free exploration, supporting language growth and aligning with one of the three foundational pillars of our school: Happiness. You can download our Nursery Curriculum here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will learning two languages confuse my child or delay their speech?
This is one of the most common concerns among parents, but research has consistently shown that bilingual children meet language milestones at a similar pace as their monolingual peers. As long as they are exposed consistently to both languages in meaningful contexts, children are capable of learning two languages without confusion or delay.
Q: What are the benefits of bilingual education?
Bilingualism offers more than just the ability to speak two languages. It enhances cognitive development, supports academic success, and improves communication skills. Bilingual individuals also tend to develop greater cultural empathy and are better prepared for global career opportunities later in life.
Q: How does Tessa International School support early bilingual development?
At Tessa, our nursery program introduces children as young as 20 months old to a second language (French, Spanish, or Mandarin). Designed for young children, our approach blends structured inquiry with play-based exploration, all grounded in the global-renowned International Baccalaureate (IB) framework.
Are you ready to discover Hoboken’s leading international private school?
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In our Nursery, Preschool, and Kindergarten classrooms, literacy is woven into every part of the day, from storytelling and singing to block building and dramatic play.
Because our program is rooted in inquiry, children build early literacy as they explore big ideas and concepts like:
Self-expression through play and art: Children study paintings, respond with movement or words, and create their own representations using drawings, symbols, and language to express ideas.
Making meaning through science and communication: Children make predictions, test their ideas, and document their thinking using drawings, invented spelling, and early writing.
For example, when they study paintings, students at Tessa are encouraged to use language to interpret and communicate their understanding.
Learning in Context, Not in Isolation
Children develop stronger literacy skills when those skills are embedded in real experiences. That’s why early literacy at Tessa happens through songs, conversations, drawing, inquiry, and meaningful writing opportunities.
For example:
A child exploring a painting might say how it makes them feel, then write the first sound they hear in that feeling word.
While experimenting with floating and sinking, they might use drawings to record their ideas or label objects using their own writing system.
During shared storytelling, they begin to predict, retell, and build vocabulary, all of which are critical pre-reading behaviors.
These moments strengthen phonological awareness, vocabulary, symbolic understanding, and oral language. These are the essential building blocks for reading and writing in any language.
Language Drives Literacy
In an immersion classroom, the target language is the lens through which children explore these ideas. They’re not just learning a language. They’re learning through language.
Our children:
Build vocabulary naturally through play, conversations, and storytelling
Develop sound awareness by hearing songs, rhymes, and expressive speech
Begin to represent their thinking through marks, drawings, and letters, first in the target language and then across languages
In all of these experiences, literacy isn’t a subject. It’s a way of thinking and expressing. Children begin to notice print in their environment, use the target language to explain their drawings or ideas, and experiment with writing through scribbling, mark-making, and early letter forms. These are the first steps in becoming confident communicators who express themselves across languages and in many different ways.
In our next post, we will explore how children begin writing in two languages and how phonological awareness, vocabulary, and symbolic thinking come together to support that exciting process.
Sources & Further Reading
Roskos, K., Christie, J. F., & Richgels, D. J. (2009). Play and Literacy in Early Childhood: Research from Multiple Perspectives (2nd ed.). Routledge.
National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). (2019). Developmentally Appropriate Practice Position Statement.
Espinosa, L. M. (2015). Getting it Right for Young Children from Diverse Backgrounds: Applying Research to Improve Practice with a Focus on Dual Language Learners. Pearson.
Tabors, P. O. (2008). One Child, Two Languages: A Guide for Early Childhood Educators of Children Learning English as a Second Language (2nd ed.).
Genesee, F. & Nicoladis, E. (2007). Bilingual First Language Acquisition. In E. Hoff & M. Shatz (Eds.), Handbook of Language Development.
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At what age should your child start summer camp? It’s a common question, and one without a simple answer. Determining a child’s readiness for summer camp is not solely a matter of age. Factors such as emotional maturity, social comfort, and self-care independence all play a significant role.
A well-designed summer camp creates space for children to develop meaningful relationships, discover new activities, and gain confidence outside the classroom. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the “correct” age, this blog offers a practical framework for you to evaluate your child’s readiness and select an age-appropriate summer camp program, grounded in both developmental research and best practices.
Tessa International School’s Summer Camp programs meet a wide range of ages and developmental needs.
5 Questions to Assess Your Child’s Readiness for Summer Camp
What is your child’s current stage of social-emotional development?
Can your child follow basic instructions, participate in group activities, and regulate emotions reasonably well? Children who have developed key social-emotional skills are better equipped to thrive in structured group environments like summer camps.
How does your child respond to separation from caregivers?
Participating in a summer camp can be a gentle and helpful step in practicing separation and developing independence. Especially for toddlers, these early experiences support smoother transitions into nursery school, preschool, kindergarten, primary school, and other structured settings.
At Tessa International School’s Summer Camp, we offer weekly sign-ups and half-day/full day choices. The flexible registration options support you in planning a smooth and positive transition for your child adjusting to new routines.
How excited is your child about the idea of going to camp?
Interest is a strong predictor of positive engagement. If your child expresses curiosity about camp activities or shows excitement about meeting new friends, it is a good sign they are emotionally ready.
Are their interests matched with what the camp offers?
Some children thrive in active, outdoor settings; others prefer arts, STEM, or language-based enrichment. Matching your child’s preferences to the camp’s offerings supports both enjoyment and growth.
At Tessa Summer Camp, children engage in a wide range of dynamic activities that span multiple subjects and formats—keeping each week fresh, engaging, and free from boredom.
Are you, as a parent, ready?
Your confidence and comfort also matter. Children often reflect the emotional tone set by caregivers. If you feel assured in your decision, your child is more likely to embrace the experience with enthusiasm and ease.
Recommended Summer Camp Programs by Age Group
Below are general guidelines to help you choose the right type of camp based on age and developmental expectations. Keep in mind that every child is unique, and these ranges are flexible.
Ages 2–4: Introduction to Group Experiences and Language Foundations
This stage is marked by rapid development in language, emotion, cognition, and motor control. Toddlers and preschoolers benefit most from nurturing, play-based programs that emphasize storytelling, music, movement, and sensory exploration.
As children enter elementary years, they are typically ready for more structured, theme-based programs in STEM, sports, art, or cultural exploration, which capture their curiosity while helping them build skills. This age group is also a prime period for deepening bilingual skills through language-rich learning.
Ages 10 and Up: Overnight and Leadership Opportunities
Preteens and teens seek greater independence and personal growth. Adventure activities and overnight camps allow older campers to step out of their comfort zones and encourage self-reflection. These experiences build the kind of confidence that carries over into school, friendships, and beyond.
Tessa International School’s Language Immersion Summer Camp
At Tessa International School, our Language Immersion Summer Camp welcomes children ages 2 to 10 into an engaging, bilingual environment designed to support a wide range of developmental and linguistic needs.
Age-Appropriate Design: We create small, age-appropriate groups to meet campers’ developmental needs, ensuring every child feels safe, engaged, and supported. When our younger campers (ages 2–4) participate in play-based, sensory-rich activities, older students (ages 5-10) will engage in more challenging project-based learning and cultural exchange.
Differentiated by Language Level: We continue our focus on differentiated, student-centered instruction during the summer months. Whether your child is a beginner or already fluent, we provide leveled instruction and peer grouping that stimulate language development in French, Spanish, or Mandarin.
Balanced outdoor and indoor fun: Each day at Tessa Summer Camp includes both indoor creative activities and outdoor energetic play, with dedicated sports teachers leading games and movement sessions to promote physical development.
Cultural Enrichment: Each week will center around exciting new themes, introducing children to inspiring careers and fields with special visitors to enhance their experience. These themes are designed to spark curiosity, encourage creativity, and ensure variety each week.
There is no universally “correct” age. Some children thrive in shorter, play-based camps as early as 20 months. Most children are ready to begin structured day camps around ages 5 or 6. For primary students, summer camps offer a more challenging and rewarding experience, allowing them to engage with complex themes and take on responsibilities.
Q: What should I consider when evaluating a summer camp program?
Look for camps with a clear educational or developmental philosophy, trained staff, safety protocols, and activities aligned with your child’s interests.
Learn more about how to find suitable extracurricular programs here.
Q: How is Tessa International School’s Summer Camp different from others?
Tessa’s Summer Camp offers age-appropriate, bilingual programs in Spanish, French, and Mandarin. Campers enjoy a balanced mix of outdoor fun with dedicated sports instructors and indoor learning activities. Each week features a new career-themed focus, allowing children to explore real-world topics through hands-on projects. Tessa Summer Camp is a unique blend of language immersion, discovery, and summer excitement.
Are you ready to explore the only international leading private school in Hoboken?
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At Tessa, one of the most common questions we as educators hear is “When will my child learn to read?”
But here’s an even more important question: How are we preparing your child to become a lifelong reader and writer—in more than one language?
The answer begins with early literacy—and it starts long before decoding or writing words.
At Tessa, we begin nurturing children’s early literacy skills as early as 20 months of age through our Nursery program.
What is Early Literacy?
Early literacy refers to the foundational skills children build from birth through age six that prepare them to read and write. These include:
Phonological awareness (hearing and playing with sounds)
Vocabulary development
Symbolic representation (understanding that marks or symbols carry meaning)
Emergent writing (scribbling, drawing, or writing to tell a story)
These skills don’t emerge from memorization or drills. They grow through rich, meaningful experiences with language—stories, songs, conversations, dramatic play—and they develop across all languages a child uses.
Why Early Literacy Matters
When children have a solid command of spoken language, they are better prepared for the demands of reading and writing later on. They can express themselves, understand story structures, and play with language, all of which are essential for literacy success.
Phonological awareness is a key piece of this. For example:
If a child can rhyme, they are also beginning to notice word patterns and families (cat, hat, mat).
If they can identify the first or last sound in a word, they’re preparing to blend and segment sounds when they start reading.
But, and this is important, they need a strong vocabulary to do any of that. You can’t rhyme with words you don’t know.
That’s why early literacy is not about teaching skills in isolation. It’s about connecting vocabulary, sounds, and ideas in context—through stories, songs, conversations, and inquiry.
But What About Letters and Sounds?
We often get asked: “When will my child learn letters and sounds?”
The short answer is: when they’re ready—and in a way that makes sense.
At Tessa, we don’t rush into memorizing letters in isolation. Instead, we create experiences where letters and sounds come alive through songs, stories, names, and meaningful words.
For example, children may:
Recognize the first letter of their name on their cubby.
Hear the /b/ sound in butterfly while reading about insects.
Write the first sound they hear in a word while drawing or labeling their work.
These organic experiences stick because they’re tied to real ideas, interests, and vocabulary. Once children have a strong foundation in oral language and sound awareness, they’re much more successful when they begin formal phonics and decoding—typically in Kindergarten or Grade 1.
What This Looks Like in a Multilingual Setting
In our immersion classrooms:
In Spanish, children clap the syllables in mariposa or sing rhyming songs like Estrellita, ¿dónde estás?
In French, they act out stories and notice sound patterns in poems and songs.
In Mandarin, they explore tones, characters, and the meaning behind symbols.
These experiences don’t stay in one language, rather, the skills transfer. For example, when children are familiar with listening for patterns in Spanish or Mandarin, they apply that same awareness when they begin reading in English. It’s all connected.
Home Language Is the Starting Point
Whatever language your family speaks at home, keep speaking it. Read stories, play with words, sing songs. Your home language is your child’s starting point for literacy in any other language. A strong foundation in one language supports learning in every language that follows.
You can find more about how to support language learning at home here.
In our next post of the Literacy Progression Series, we’ll explore how early literacy is nurtured through play, exploration, and inquiry in our immersion classrooms, and why this approach works.
Sources & Further Reading
National Early Literacy Panel. (2008). Developing Early Literacy: Report of the National Early Literacy Panel. [National Institute for Literacy]
Neuman, S. B., & Roskos, K. (2007). Literacy Knowledge in Practice: Contexts of Participation for Young Writers and Readers. Reading Research Quarterly, 42(3), 304–310.
Castro, D. C., Páez, M., Dickinson, D. K., & Frede, E. (2011). Promoting Language and Literacy in Young Dual Language Learners: Research, Practice, and Policy. Child Development Perspectives.
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. (2015). A Guide to Early Literacy Development.
Bialystok, E., Luk, G., & Kwan, E. (2005). Bilingualism, Biliteracy, and Learning to Read: Interactions Among Languages and Writing Systems. Scientific Studies of Reading, 9(1), 43–61.
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Bilingual education offers incredible advantages for children, however some parents wonder whether it’s too late to start once their child reaches elementary school (typically teaching students between the age of 5-10 in the United States). The short answer is no. In this post, we will explore the lasting benefits of bilingual education for elementary students and provide practical tips on how to support your child’s language development at this crucial stage.
Tessa International School offers bilingual programs in Spanish, French, and Mandarin from PK2 to Primary (Grade 5).
Bilingual Elementary Programs Still Lead to Native Proficiency
While it is ideal to start language learning at a younger age, a 2018 study performed at MIT, based on data from nearly 670,000 people, shows that it is possible for people to achieve native-like proficiency in a second language only if they start learning it by the age of 10. That is to say, elementary students are still in a prime window for language acquisition!
Benefits of Bilingual Education for Elementary Students
Cognitive Growth
Research shows greater cognitive development benefits for multilingual children than for monolingual children. With the acquisition of more than one language, multilingual children demonstrate superior flexibility in cognitive thinking, helping them navigate more complex academic content. Moreover, a study comparing six-year-olds in Canada found that bilingual students performed better than monolingual students on activities that tested their executive function, which consequently enhanced their emotional regulation.
Social-emotional Development
Being bilingual supports children in maintaining strong ties with their family, culture, and community–all of which are key parts of a child’s identity construction. Ample evidence shows that active multilingual learning provides more opportunities for positive social-emotional experiences, such as building better relationships with teachers and peers and collaborating effectively with a diverse range of people.
Strong scientific evidence supports that bilingual education is a worthwhile investment of time.
Academic Success
The common misconception that bilingual education may confuse children has been debunked by scientific evidence. Bilingual and monolingual children reach similar language development milestones at roughly the same rate. Elementary students also frequently excel in overall academic achievement. In addition to improving their performance in STEM subjects, bilingual education delivers more advantages in literacy by enhancing their metalinguistic awareness.
“Older children get a higher form of academic language, meaning they grasp vocabulary. […] Those benefits only persist if the child keeps having exposure to that language.”
– Dr. Deborah Gilboa, a board-certified family physician specializing in youth development
How to Support Children in Bilingualism
If your child reaches elementary school, and you wish to begin or boost bilingualism, here are some practical tips to help you.
Create A Language-Immersive Environment
Immersing your child in the target language allows for constant exposure and the need of using another language, helping build solid bilingual proficiency. Some parents may choose to relocate to a country where the language is spoken. Another more feasible option is to enroll your child in a bilingual elementary school. Even if you have no background in another language, the everyday interactions, lessons, and activities conducted in both languages at school can support your child develop a bilingual mindset.
Encourage Socializing with Bilingual Peers
Interactions with bilingual peers further encourage your child to use the target language in real life. Positive relationships boost your child’s confidence and encourage natural language use.
Expose Children to Cultural Experiences
Learning about the culture associated with a second language helps your child maintain an interest in language learning and deepen their understanding. Taking part in cultural activities, such as celebrating festivals that highlight the traditions and values of the culture, not only enriches your child’s language learning experience but also promotes their cultural awareness.
Provide Age-appropriate Opportunities to Motivate Your Child
Elementary-aged children are capable of handling more challenging tasks, so it is important to provide opportunities that push their skills while keeping them motivated and rewarded. Encourage your child to participate in academic challenges, such as writing a short story, completing a language puzzle, or taking part in a spelling bee in the target language. Incorporating their interests, whether it is sports, art, or science, into language activities will keep them more engaged.
How Tessa International School’s Elementary Program Encourages Bilingualism
At Tessa, our bilingual program is crafted to ensure students acquire oral and written proficiency in both English and their chosen target language (French, Mandarin, or Spanish). Since Grade 1, students spend an equal amount of time with their English teacher and their target language teacher.
Our teachers are highly credentialed native speakers, providing students with the highest quality instruction. Importantly, they don’t just teach the language; they teach in the language, immersing students in authentic linguistic experiences. With teachers collaborating to streamline students’ learning, this balanced dual-language approach ensures continued growth in both languages over the long term, preparing students for academic and personal success.
FAQs
Q. Is it too late for my child to learn another language in elementary school?
No! Although it is ideal to start bilingual education as early as possible, experts found that people can still achieve proficiency as native speakers if they start learning another language by the age of 10. Therefore, elementary school remains within the critical period of learning a language, especially when they are immersed in a structured, language-rich environment like Tessa International School.
Q. Do bilingual kids do better in school?
Learning another language boosts executive functioning and enhances metalinguistic awareness, so bilingual learners’ often demonstrate strong performance in subjects like Math, Reading, and Writing. Moreover, bilingual children tend to have greater cognitive flexibility. The ability to think and reason in two languages provides elementary students with more efficiency to understand complex ideas.
Q. How does Tessa International School support a balanced language acquisition in both languages?
Our elementary programs employ the 50/50 dual-language model, where primary students from Grade 1 to 5 spend half of the week with their English teacher, and half of the week with their target language teachers. To sustain this balance, our quality native-speaking instructors regularly collaborate to streamline students’ learning, ensuring what is taught in one language is connected and applied in the other language. This balanced approach supports long-term growth in both languages fluency, preparing our bilingual students for future success.
Are you ready to discover Hoboken’s leading international private school?
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Terms like “daycare,” “nursery school,” and “preschool” are sometimes used interchangeably, but they are not the same. While both provide care and supervision for young children, it’s important to understand the key differences when selecting the right option for your child. In this blog post, we will explore the similarities and differences between nursery school and daycare, as well as what you can typically expect from each type of program.
Nursery School vs. Daycare: Terminology
Child care center means any home or facility, by whatever name known, which is maintained for the care, development, or supervision of six or more children under 13 years of age who attend for less than 24 hours a day.
According to state laws in NJ, both nursery school and daycares fall under the broader category of child care centers. However, different terminologies used to describe them indicate their different focus on education, age group, curriculum, and methodology, helping families understand what each program offers.
A nursery school, as its name suggests, refers to a schooling program for toddlers with a formal curriculum on early childhood education. In some regions, a nursery school may be considered as part of the preschool. It commonly serves younger children (around 2) compared to preschool programs, which generally accommodate children ages 3-5 as an introduction to kindergarten. The educational environment, likely led by highly-trained teachers, creates a dynamic and enriching environment that introduces children to a classroom setting and lays a foundation for building pre-academic skills.
Daycares, on the other hand, commonly focus on care and nurturing for a wider age range from infants to young teenagers. While some daycare centers incorporate learning activities, their primary purpose is to provide a safe space for children like babysitting rather than structured educational instruction. Caregivers ensure children’s well-being but are not necessarily required to engage them in developmental or academic activities.
Nursery School vs. Daycare: What are the Similarities?
Both nursery schools and daycare programs must be licensed by state regulators and are usually subject to the same laws and regulations for child care centers. These regulations cover aspects such as director qualifications, safety protocols, staff-to-child ratios, and recordkeeping requirements. You can find all licensed child care centers in New Jersey here.
Both preschools and daycares make safety a top concern, ensuring that children are well cared for while supporting their physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
Nursery School vs. Daycare: What are the Differences?
Understanding that child care programs have different goals and areas of focus, let’s examine some key differences between nursery school and daycare.
Educational Focus
As mentioned earlier, nursery schools tend to be more learning-oriented. Although daycares may provide opportunities for children to develop life skills through spontaneous, self-directed learning, nursery schools design stimulating learning experiences, such as group play and conflict resolutions, encouraging socio-emotional and intellectual growth under teachers’ guidance.
Moreover, nursery schools prepare children for the next stage of learning by introducing foundational skills in math, language, music, and art through engaging, play-based activities. Teachers in nursery schools are more likely to be well-trained in early childhood education. There should be a set educational curriculum such as International Baccalaureate (IB), Montessori, or Bank Street, with a framework focused on different learning outcomes.
For instance, the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) at Tessa International School’s nursery program offers an inquiry-based, transdisciplinary curriculum framework. It promotes play-based learning that fosters toddlers’ curiosity, creativity, and confidence, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive both now and in the future.
Nursery education paves the way for greater learning capabilities as early brain development brings rapid cognitive, emotional, and physical growth for a child.
Services
Nursery schools generally follow a daily schedule similar to that of a kindergarten classroom, helping children develop a sense of routine and reducing anxiety when transitioning to the next educational phase. Varied by school, options such as half day or full day programs, before and after school services, and summer programs may be available to accommodate working parents.
Daycares, by contrast, often offer more flexible services, including drop-in child care. Some daycares operate year-round, including during the summer and on weekends. However, the flexible hours and less structured environment can sometimes lead to inconsistent interactions among children and a lack of continuous staff supervision, which may unfavourably impact young children’s social development.
While some daycares are home-based, nursery schools are mostly center-based, accommodating a larger size of students with school facilities. Nursery schools also tend to have lower teacher-to-child ratios to allow for more personalized learning experiences.
Age Requirements
Nursery schools typically serve children starting around age 2, while daycare centers may enroll children from infancy up to school age. Some daycare centers use a mixed-age model, where children of different ages interact with one another. While this model can foster social development, it may also lead to conflicts or challenges in addressing each child’s developmental needs. In contrast, nursery schools provide more age-appropriate learning opportunities tailored to their specific curriculum and methodology.
Nursery Program at Tessa International School
At Tessa, our nursery program provides students as young as 20 months with a unique introduction to the school experience, initiating toddlers to a second language, fostering creativity through play-based activities, and laying the foundation for lifelong learning.
Unlike traditional daycare centers, our nursery program offers:
A Bilingual Program: When it comes to bilingualism, the earlier the better. The majority of instruction is conducted in the target language–Spanish, French, or Mandarin–helping students build strong language foundations.You can learn more about the benefits and suggestions of raising a bilingual child here.
A World-Class Education: Guided by the IB and the French, Spanish, and Chinese Curricula, our program provides a foundation for lifelong learning. Children are introduced to key concepts in literacy, math, the arts, and physical development. These early experiences are carefully designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and prepare them for deeper learning in the years ahead.
A Play-Based Curriculum: By balancing structured activities with free play, we encourage children to learn through exploration and discovery while having fun. Learn more about how we prioritizes happiness as a key pillar of the school missionhere.
Learning a second language earlier and for a longer period is most likely to lead to proficiency.
Are you ready to discover Hoboken’s leading language immersion summer program?
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Lunar New Year is a celebration of the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new year on the lunisolar calendar. It is the most important holiday in China (also known as the Spring Festival, 春节Chūn jié) and widely celebrated across Asia and in overseas Chinese communities. It is a time for family and community reunions, feasting, parades, and fireworks, symbolizing renewal and prosperity.
In 2025, January 29th marks the beginning of the Lunar New Year, the Year of the Snake. A common motif in myths and tales, the snake symbolizes transformation and personal growth in Chinese culture. As Hoboken and the surrounding NYC area come alive with festivities, here are five incredible places to immerse yourself and your family in the traditions and joy of the Lunar New Year.
As a Mandarin immersion school, Lunar New Year is one of our largest annual celebrations at Tessa International School.
27th Lunar New Year Firecracker Ceremony & Cultural Festival in Chinatown
Kick off the Lunar New Year on January 29 with a bang—literally—at Chinatown’s Firecracker Ceremony and Cultural Festival in Manhattan Chinatown!
Organized by Better Chinatown USA, this festival begins with a traditional firecracker display to ward off evil spirits and welcome the New Year in Sara D. Roosevelt Park. Attendees can enjoy a variety of cultural performances, including lion and dragon dances. From 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM, festival booths will offer traditional foods, souvenirs, and exhibits. This family-friendly festival is a sensory delight that captures the true essence of the celebration!
The Sound of Spring—Chinese New Year Concert with The Orchestra Now in NYC
Music lovers, here’s the perfect event for you to honor the Lunar New Year while appreciating the musical heritage of China!
Now in its sixth year, The Sound of Spring is an authentic Chinese New Year concert featuring dramatic orchestral works and world-class Chinese instrument soloists. Concerts will take place on January 25 at 3 PM in The Fisher Center at Bard College and on January 26 at 3 PM in the Rose Theater at Lincoln Center in New York City. Exposure to the diversity and artistry of Chinese music is a wonderful way to spark your children’s interest in the richness of cultural heritage and the beauty of another language!
In addition to opportunities to explore China’s rich musical traditions, the event also offers pre-concert celebrations at 2 PM for you to embrace the Chinese New Year’s spirit. Come early and bring your kid for Chinese treats and instrument demonstrations!
Lunar New Year Celebration & Open House at Tessa International School
Celebrate Lunar New Year with Tessa International School in Hoboken on February 1 at 9:30 AM!
This open-to-all event invites families to immerse themselves in the culture and festivities of the Year of the Snake. Through a variety of activities such as sugar painting (Tanghua), Couplets (Chunlian) DIY, and a Mandarin book sale, you will enjoy a vibrant morning of cultural exploration and community connection!
As an international school offering a Mandarin immersion program for students aged 2-10, Tessa International School incorporates culturally responsive teaching practices into our bilingual education. Our programs aim to foster a deep appreciation for global traditions and values, equipping students with both linguistic and cultural skills they need to thrive in an interconnected world. At 10:30 AM, a special presentation by our administration team will help you learn about Tessa’s programs and school mission!
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore, connect, and celebrate! You can sign up here.
Sanxingdui Encounter Exhibition at Memor Museum in NYC
Perfect for history enthusiasts and families—step into the world of ancient Chinese culture with the Sanxingdui Encounter Exhibition before January 19!
History meets technology at this immersive exhibition showcasing ancient Chinese culture. Featuring a one-to-one replica of Sanxingdui artifacts and cutting-edge VR and AI interactive activities, this experience brings a 3,000-year-old civilization to life in an innovative fashion. Blending education with cultural celebration, this event will add a meaningful dimension to your holiday experience.
During their field trip, students in Mandarin Track at Tessa observed the cultural relics up close.
Lunar New Year Celebration Series at American Dream in NJ
Still on the hunt for the New Year’s essentials? The Lunar New Year Series at American Dream offers a mix of entertainment, shopping, and cultural activities!
Interactive shows, holiday-themed markets, and a variety of all-age entertainment—there’s something for everyone to enjoy from January 24 to February 9. This lively series captures the festive essence of the Lunar New Year, making it an exciting destination for a day of fun with the whole family.
FAQs
What is the Lunar New Year?
The Lunar New Year, celebrated widely across Asia, marks the start of a new year on the lunisolar calendar. It is a time to reunite with family and friends, honor ancestors, and welcome prosperity, health, and happiness.
When is the Lunar New Year celebrated?
The date often falls between late January and early February, varying each year as it is based on the lunisolar calendar. In 2025, Lunar New Year begins on January 29, ushering in the Year of the Snake.
Why is it important to learn about the Lunar New Year?
Lunar New Year is the most important holiday in many Asian countries, celebrated by billions of people each year. This significant cultural celebration offers a valuable window into diverse cultures and promotes understanding of different customs around the world.
In addition, activities celebrating the Lunar New Year provide language- and value-immersive opportunities for learners to apply both their linguistic and knowledge skills in real-life situations. As an international school offering a Mandarin immersion program, we believe that encouraging bilingual learners to actively participate in relevant socio-cultural events helps them sustain a lifelong passion for language learning and develop an open-minded attitude.
Learn more about why you should choose Chinese immersion for your children here.
Are you ready to discover Hoboken’s leading international private school?
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Can young children handle exposure to two languages? Absolutely!Research shows that bilingual infants – as young as 20 months – are capable of processing two languages efficiently. Bilingual acquisition is a natural and rewarding journey for our toddlers that not only enriches communication but also brings unique cognitive and developmental advantages. Below, we have addressed common concerns parents have about raising bilingual toddlers, backed by research and expert insights.
Commonly Asked Questions
1. Is it too early to start teaching my 2-year-old a second language?
No, starting early is highly advantageous. Early language acquisition is strongly supported by the way children’s brains develop. Toddlers naturally absorb languages without consciously realizing it. A study shows that even babies as young as 4 months can differentiate between language inputs, emphasizing the potential in cognitive development from dual language exposure.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, children who begin learning second languages before the age of six will have an easier time:
For more insights, watch the last webinar by Kathleen Visconti, our Head of School, on the benefits of bilingualism. You can download the recording of the session here.
2. Will learning two languages confuse my child?
No.Research for decades has debunked this common misconception. In fact, children who have regular and rich exposure to both languages achieve the same milestones in language development at roughly the same pace as monolingual children. Additionally, evidence proves that bilingualism enhances children’s cognitive abilities, such as understanding others’ perspectives and improving problem-solving skills.
Early exposure to another language ignites children’s learning.
3. How do I balance exposure to two languages?
The “One Parent, One Language” (OPOL) strategy offers a great way to ensure balanced exposure, where each parent consistently speaks only one language to the child. While popular, OPOL can be demanding to maintain.
Alternatively, to ensure later bilingualism, many experts recommend providing more early input in a minority language and promoting children’s interaction with peers who speak the same language. In this light, a high-quality nursery school program is greatly beneficial, forming a supportive language-immersed environment.
This is what Tessa International School’s Immersion Model is about. In our nursery program, toddlers start learning French, Spanish, or Mandarin with 80% of the communication and learning activities in the target language. The 80:20 immersion stage builds a strong foundation for bilingual fluency.
4. What if I don’t speak the second language fluently?
That’s okay! There are still numerous ways to foster second language development. Books, songs, and other resources can be utilized to create an environment that encourages language exploration and learning.
Don’t know where to start? We curate an array of language-promoting resources for you. For example, you can find French resources recommended by teachers from Tessa French track, accredited by the French Ministry of Education, on our school website. Learning another language with your child will be a unique parenting experience and strengthen your role in their educational journey.
5. What are the long-term benefits of bilingualism for young children?
The advantages of mastering another language are crystal clear: around 60% of the world population knows more than one language as of 2018. Therefore, bilingualism broadens communication skills, fosters cultural awareness, and opens doors to academic and professional success.
More importantly than a higher annual salary bracket, there are fascinating and meaningful findings that bilingualism appears to delay the onset of degenerative cognitive diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Dementia. The cognitive stimulation for managing two languages activates multiple aspects of brain activity and compensates for cognitive decline, promoting our children a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life.
6. What should I do if my child mixes languages?
Language mixing, or code-switching, is a natural phenomenon among non-monolingual learners. It signifies active usage of both languages and bilingual thinking rather than confusion.
Some researchers suggest that code-switching reflects an intellectual advantage by demonstrating the comprehension of different cultures as well as an understanding of the fundamental structures and functions of language systems. Therefore, the key to supporting your child through language mixing is to encourage appropriate expression and celebrate their bilingual development.. With the right support, your child will learn to separate languages sooner than you can imagine.
7. How can I make learning two languages fun for my toddler?
Toddlers thrive on playful interactions. There are numerous fun and engaging opportunities for language building through play, music, and books. You can learn more about play-based learning activities practical at home here.
At Tessa International School, we provide a bilingual education based on happiness.
8. How much exposure does my child need to become fluent?
There is no exact formula for fluency. Factors like the quality of exposure, age, and family background all play a role in children’s language development.
“Finally, there is no good measure of ‘enough exposure.’ “
– Dr. François Grosjean, a Professor Emeritus and former Director of the Language and Speech Processing Laboratory at the University of Neuchâtel.
Like any other skill, language learning takes practice and time. Evidence above shows that children who experience two languages from birth consistently have the potential to develop into native speakers of both languages.
At Tessa International School, our nursery, preschool, kindergarten, and elementary programs provide children with everyday opportunities to practice both languages, fostering natural and lasting fluency.
9. Will my child eventually prefer one language over the other?
The notion of perfectly balanced bilingualism is ideological. In other words, bilingualism is not static, existing on a continuum in which one’s proficiency is constantly changing over time. Bilinguals often have a dominant and a minority language based on complex strands of social, cultural, and educational influences, so it is understandable for people to display language dominance.
However, Tessa’s Immersion Progression Model is thoughtfully designed to help your child maintain a balance instead of losing these valuable language assets.
80:20 Immersion Stage: At Tessa, from Nursery through Kindergarten, the majority of instruction (80%) is conducted in the target language to ensure sufficient exposure of the minority language, allowing students to build strong, life-long foundations in the language.
50:50 Dual Language Stage: Starting in Grade 1, students will receive instruction and absorb knowledge in English and the targeted language equally in order to gain proficiency in both.
10. Are there specific programs or schools that support bilingualism for toddlers?
Yes! At Tessa International School, we offer world-class bilingual education for ages 2-10. Differing from other schooling programs, our nursery program provides a special introduction to initiate your child to a second language, develops their creativity through various play-based activities, and prepares them to become lifelong learners.
A Bilingual Program: When it comes to bilingualism, the earlier the better. Daily exposure to dual languages builds children’s confidence and communication skills, preparing them to become bilingual, adaptable, and active citizens.
A World-Class Education: Guided by the International Baccalaureate, our nursery program provides a “roadmap” for toddlers to travel, with options for detours when their curiosity is peaked or the need for student-initiated action occurs.
A Play-Based Curriculum: Balancing structured activities and free play, we encourage children to learn while having fun, inquire and make discoveries for themselves, aligned with one of the three educational pillars of our school mission – Happiness.
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Discover why our bilingual curriculum is recognized as one of the best. Learn how we combine academic excellence with engaging, interactive experiences that foster global awareness.
Discover why our bilingual curriculum is recognized as one of the best. Learn how we combine academic excellence with engaging, interactive experiences that foster global awareness.
