In this digital world, fostering literacy and bilingualism in children from an early age is more important than ever. Studies show that the seeds of literacy are sown in early childhood and that there is no better way to cultivate them than the simple but profound act of shared reading.
Thomas and I embarked on a linguistic and literary journey with our children from birth, reading to them every day from books in French and English.
Shared reading is not just a way of passing on knowledge; it’s a way of weaving a lifelong love affair with language. It’s also a way of nurturing a strong, loving bond between the child and their parents. Our children’s growing vocabulary in two languages by the age of five and their later mastery of independent reading in two different languages has confirmed the importance of this practice. Through daily storytelling rituals, we have not only nurtured their linguistic abilities, but also instilled in them a deep appreciation of diverse cultures and perspectives.
The benefits of shared reading
Studies underline the profound impact of early reading experiences on children’s language and literacy development. Whatever the child’s socio-economic status, the enriching environment fostered by shared reading lays a solid foundation for successful literacy.
During these precious moments of shared reading, each participant – parent, child and the pages of a cherished picture book – plays an essential role in the co-creation of meaning. As parents, we guide our children through the story, encouraging active engagement by prompting observations, making connections and awakening curiosity.
The beauty of picture books lies in their ability to transcend linguistic boundaries and serve as vehicles for exploration and discovery. Through vibrant illustrations and captivating stories, children not only expand their vocabulary, they also cultivate empathy, sharpen their cognitive skills and cultural awareness.
Fostering literacy and bilingualism through picture books
Picture books, with their tactile appeal and rich symbolism, offer a multi-sensory experience that resonates deeply with young minds. From the melodic cadence of narration to the playful rhythms of “baby talk”, every interaction with a picture book nurtures a child’s linguistic acuity and fosters a love of storytelling.
As advocates of literacy and bilingualism, we’ve put together a collection of beloved books in English and French to inspire families along this path. These timeless treasures are not only entertaining but also educational, acting as catalysts for imagination and language development from an early age.
By sharing the pleasure of reading, we give our children the means to grasp the complexities of the world with confidence, curiosity and compassion.
English (UK) 
Français