1 language learning in early childhood preview

Paradis, J., Genesee, F., & Crago, M. B. (2011). Dual language
development and disorders: A handbook on bilingualism and second
language learning (2nd ed.). Baltimore: Paul H. Brookes.
The authors describe language acquisition by children who learn more than
one language simultaneously or sequentially, drawing on research from
education, psychology, and linguistics. They make the research accessible
by their writing style, the inclusion of a glossary of terms, and above all by
relating the research to profiles of children who are acquiring their
languages in a variety of home, school, and community situations. The
authors provide insights into both normal and atypical multilingual
development.
Pearson, B. Z. (2008). Raising a bilingual child: A step-by-step guide for
parents. New York: Living Language (Random House).
Addressing herself mainly to parents, Barbara Zurer Pearson reviews
research from many studies and shows how children become bilingual in
many different environments. She also emphasizes the advantages of
growing up with a knowledge of more than one language—from the
evidence for cognitive flexibility to the benefits of cultural knowledge.
Written in an approachable and humorous style, the text is supported by
Pearson’s thorough knowledge of the research literature that is included in
the bibliography.

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Document Outline

• 1 LANGUAGE LEARNING IN EARLY CHILDHOOD
  • Preview
  • First language acquisition
  • Explaining first language acquisition
  • Language disorders and delays
  • Childhood bilingualism
  • Summary
  • Suggestions for further reading