The benefits of bilingualism are indisputable. It is also well accepted nowadays among researchers that the earlier, the easier and better one can acquire an additional language. This unique window of opportunity for cognitive development beginning at the age of 2 cannot be missed.
In 2017 we started groups of very young learners ranging in age from 2 to 5. The groups meet 2, 3 or even 5 times a week for 4 hours each time, interacting with two different native teachers 3 hours each time. During the 1-hour break in between, they are helped by a Brazilian who has lived in England for 10 years and interacts with them only in English. The kids attending 20 hours a week, after 4 semesters are bilingual in the strict sense of the word – speaking English on an equivalent level with their native Portuguese for their age.
