Bilingual books and toys are a great resource to start your child's journey to learning or improving their chinese/english. They offer a unique opportunity to read a story in two languages side by side whilst having fun. However, with so many bilingual books available, it can be challenging to choose the right one. Here are some of our tips on how to pick bilingual books that will help you achieve your language goals.
- Choose a book that interests both parties!
When selecting a bilingual book, it's important to choose one that you find interesting. If you're not engaged in the story, you'll quickly lose motivation to continue reading (and your kid will definitely know!). Look for different range of books that are interactive with flip flaps, sing-a-long, short and easy to read, or simply have beautiful illustrations. This will keep you and child enaged as you read.
- Equal importance in languages with parallel text
Bilingual books often come with parallel text, meaning that the text in one language is directly translated into the other language on the facing page. This is an excellent feature as it displays both lanagues as equal importance. Minimise books where text are either smaller, cursive, or even parentheses to present the heritage language. This can accidently imply one lanague is less accessible to reader. Choose books that have parallel text, as this can make your language learning experience more effective.
- Consider the quality of translation
When selecting a bilingual book, it's important to consider the quality of the translation. If the translation is poor, you may learn incorrect grammar or vocabulary, which could set back your language learning progress. Look for books that have been translated by a professional translator or have been reviewed by a language expert to ensure that the translation is accurate.
- Multicultural characters
The consicious effort to represent diversity through bilingual and bicultural characters that often elevate other ethnic cultures. This creates a sense belonging for our child, forging that connection between environments and cultures.
In conclusion, picking the right bilingual book can be easy if you know what you are looking out for. By choosing an interesting book, with parallel text, quality translation with multi-cultural characters. At NE Baby, we try our best to give you a range of books for your family to choose from. Happy reading!