Everything you need to know about home environment, age-specific approaches & language balance
The Complete Guide to Bilingual Education
For families who wish to raise their child bilingually, this guide systematically covers everything from creating a supportive language environment at home, to age-appropriate approaches, to achieving the right balance between Japanese and English. ELT offers bilingual education programmes tailored to each child's developmental stage, from early childhood through to secondary school.
Essential Articles to Read First
Does 'Semilingualism' Really Exist? A Deep Dive into the Truth of Early English Education and Home Strategies Backed by Modern Research
What is CLIL? The Shift from 'Learning English' to 'Learning in English'
The Complete Guide to Choosing a Bilingual Kindergarten or Preschool: Costs, Benefits, and Post-Graduation Paths
Explore Articles by Topic
Creating an English Environment at Home
Practical approaches to naturally incorporating English into daily home life, including recommended materials and media resources.
Articles are currently in preparation. Please check back soon.
Age-Specific Approaches
Effective bilingual education methods suited to each developmental stage: ages 0-3, 4-6, primary school, and secondary school.
Achieving Language Balance
Guidance on maintaining an appropriate balance between Japanese and English, avoiding semilingualism, and harmonising bilingual goals with school education.
Learning Resources & Materials
Recommended materials, apps, picture books for read-aloud sessions, and video content organised by age and proficiency level.
What is CLIL? The Shift from 'Learning English' to 'Learning in English'
Effective Shadowing Techniques: How Prosody Shadowing Automates Auditory Perception
The Ultimate Guide to Shadowing Materials & Apps: Expert Picks by Level & Goal (Free Options Included)
Why Dictation Dramatically Improves Listening Skills: The Ultimate Diagnostic Tool to Pinpoint Sounds You Can't Hear
Is Expensive English Coaching Obsolete? Build the Ultimate Self-Study System with AI Shadowing, Material Selection, and Prompt Techniques
Looking for guidance on bilingual education for your child?
Experienced native instructors will propose the optimal bilingual education plan tailored to your child's age and developmental stage.
ELT's Expertise in Bilingual Education
Drawing on 40 years of international education experience, ELT has developed proven methods for effective bilingual education. From early childhood language acquisition to building the English skills that support academic achievement during school years, and through to the completion of academic-level English proficiency, ELT takes a long-term perspective in supporting each child's language development. Our distinctive approach combines native instructor-led lessons with Japanese-language support for a well-balanced learning experience.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About the Bilingual Education Guide
From a language acquisition perspective, the earlier the better. However, starting at age 3-4 is still perfectly effective. What matters more than age is providing a consistent and continuous language environment.
With an appropriate balance, Japanese language skills will not be adversely affected. In fact, research suggests that bilingualism can enhance cognitive abilities. ELT's instruction is designed with careful attention to maintaining balance between Japanese and English.
Yes, it is entirely possible. Opportunities for English exposure can be created through lessons with native instructors, English picture books and videos, and activities in English-speaking environments, even when parents do not speak English at home.
Building a solid foundation in the mother tongue (Japanese) is essential to preventing semilingualism. Key factors include maintaining age-appropriate reading habits and ensuring school studies remain a priority. ELT's instructors, who possess expertise in language development, provide informed guidance on these matters.
Explore Other Themes
The Complete Guide to International Schools
Everything you need to know about school selection, tuition, curriculum & admissions preparation
The Complete Guide to Eiken Preparation
Everything you need to know about grade selection, study methods, interview preparation & score utilisation
The Complete Guide to IELTS Preparation
Score strategy, section-by-section preparation & understanding Academic vs General Training
The Complete Guide to Business English
Practical business English for meetings, emails, negotiations & industry-specific communication
The Complete Guide to Boarding Schools
Everything you need to know about school selection, entrance exam preparation, tuition & boarding life
Would you like to try an ELT trial lesson?
Founded in London in 1984, ELT offers one-on-one lessons with experienced native instructors. Start with a free trial to experience the quality of ELT's instruction firsthand.
Book a Free Trial