Who are dual language learners?

Dual language learners are individuals who acquire two languages simultaneously from an early age, typically from infancy or the preschool years. This approach allows children to develop proficiency in both languages early on, which can lead to cognitive benefits, cultural awareness, and greater flexibility in communication.

When children grow up hearing and using both languages interchangeably, they build a strong foundation in their linguistic abilities, allowing them to navigate between languages more effortlessly compared to those who learn one language at a time or consecutively. The simultaneous learning from infancy ensures that they not only grasp vocabulary and grammar but also develop an understanding of cultural nuances associated with both languages.

This definition extends beyond mere exposure to two languages, emphasizing the critical phase of simultaneous acquisition during their early developmental stages, which distinguishes dual language learners from individuals who may learn languages sequentially or have limited exposure in academic settings.