How to achieve bilingualism

Bilingualism can be achieved in a number of ways. Most of us aren't in a situation where we have native speakers living with us. In fact most of us are still learning the language. Depending on what our individual situations are there are a number of strategies that you can follow to grow your whānau into a bilingual whānau. The most important thing to remember is that the more time and effort you put in, the more results you will see.

The advantages of bilingualism

Studies on bilingual children have shown that they:

• Are able to think more flexibly and creatively

• Have greater opportunities later in life for employment and economic opportunities

• Can act as bridge builders between generations of reo speakers and generations without

• Have the ability to communicate with a wider range of people

• Have more in depth understanding and appreciation of other cultures and languages

• Have a raised self esteem and greater security in personal identity

• Find it easier to learn a third language