How will learning everything in a second language affect my childs English language and literacy development?
Many parents are initially fearful that immersion may have a negative impact on their childs English language development. But research consistently has demonstrated that the immersion experience actually enhances English language development. It should be noted that full immersion students English development may lag temporarily in reading, word knowledge, and spelling while instruction is occurring exclusively in the immersion language. However, after a year or two of instruction in English language arts, this discrepancy disappears. It is important for parents to understand that this lag is temporary and to be expected. Immersion students need consistent exposure to, and support for, English at home. Parents need to provide their children with experiences that will enhance their English language and literacy development. For example, they should read to their children every day and involve them in games and activities that complement their classroom learning. Research shows that the
