The Benefits of Early Years Learning in a Bilingual Environment

Many parents wonder, “Will learning two languages at once confuse my child? Besides, I’m not a native French speaker myself, how will I support my little ones?” These are natural questions but decades of research now tell a different story: early bilingualism, a developmental advantage. The benefits of learning a second language go far beyond the need to communicate. Bilingual children often show greater cognitive flexibility, improved focus, and deeper cultural awareness.

Why early immersion matters

Children’s brains are most open to language before age five. As Dr Patricia Kuhl (2010) explains, young learners absorb sounds and patterns with ease, like sponges. In immersive bilingual classrooms, they don’t “translate” between languages, they develop two systems of meaning naturally. Through play, songs, and everyday conversation, second languages become part of how they think. At the CIS, children begin communicating within weeks, supported by peers and teachers in a warm and welcoming environment.

Clearing up common myths

Research shows that when both languages are supported, children gain, not lose, linguistic strength. When children mix languages (“Je veux the red one”), they are not confused, they are problem-solving. Over time, these blends fade as vocabulary grows. Code-switching is actually a sign of progress.

Confidence and connection

Building a healthy self esteem is key to developing lifelong learners. That is why bilingual classrooms focus on relationships, routines, and joy, whether singing morning songs, reading aloud or acting out stories. Students take risks, engage meaningfully, and ultimately grow into confident bilingual communicators.

Beyond the classroom

Parents are welcome to join in lessons, listen, celebrate, and be curious. A child’s bilingual development accelerates when it is normalised, valued, and embedded in relationships. Even in households where French or Chinese is not spoken, children can thrive linguistically when the language is seen, heard, and celebrated.

Join Canadian International School (CIS) for a morning of multilingual stories, songs, and discovery at their Magical Garden Party on Saturday 22 November. RSVP here.

Reference: 

Thought leadership book

Ask the Dentist: Braces off? Here’s what to expect next

Congratulations on completing your braces/aligner journey! Now that your teeth are beautifully aligned, the next step is to keep them that way — with retainers.

Why retainers matter: Your teeth need time to stabilize after completing your braces or aligner treatment. Retainers help maintain your teeth in their new positions. Without them, your teeth can gradually shift back, a process known as relapse, which may require another round of braces/aligners. Following the retainer regime prescribed by your orthodontist is hence crucial to maintaining the results that were achieved with braces/aligners.

Types of retainers

• Removable retainers: typically fabricated from clear plastic or hard acrylic with supporting wires. These can be independently removed and inserted by patients.
• Fixed retainers: thin wires glued onto the back of your teeth for constant support. These cannot be removed by patients.

Duration of retainer wear: While every case is different, studies show that some degree of long-term retention is needed to keep your smile straight for life. Some patients may require full-time retainer wear in the first 6 months after completion of braces/aligner treatment or fixed retainers.

Your orthodontist will tailor your retention plan according to your needs.

Care tips for removable retainers: It is normal to experience mild tightness or notice minor speech changes in the beginning. The tightness typically resolves within a few days to a week.

Remember to:

Finally...

Regular check-ups with your orthodontist are still key, even during the retainer phase.

Schedule a follow-up about 1-3 months after getting your retainers, and keep up with your reviews as recommended by your orthodontist. If your retainers are lost or broken, reach out to your clinic immediately, as prompt replacement prevents unwanted tooth movement.

Dr Soh Shean Han is an Orthodontist with Specialist Dental Group®. She received her specialty training in Orthodontics from University of Washington-Health Sciences School of Dentistry, USA. She is an Adjunct Senior Lecturer with National University of Singapore and Associate Staff at National University Centre for Oral Health, Singapore. Dr Soh provides orthodontic treatment across all ages, including young kids and adults. She has a special interest in clear aligner treatment and the management of jaw deformities. www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883

Ask the Dentist: How to get rid of bad breath?

 

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is something almost everyone experiences at some point. It can be embarrassing and affect your confidence in social and professional situations.

Common Causes of Bad Breath

Understanding the root of the problem is the first step. Bad breath can be caused by:

• Poor oral hygiene – leftover food particles and bacteria cause unpleasant odours.
• Dry mouth – saliva helps wash away bacteria; a lack of it leads to odour.
• Food & drinks – onions, garlic, coffee, and alcohol can linger.
• Smoking – not only causes bad breath but also increases oral health risks.
• Medical conditions – gum disease, tooth decay, sinus infections, acid reflux, or other illnesses.

Tips to Get Rid of Bad Breath

1. Brush and floss regularly: Brush your teeth morning and night with fluoride toothpaste, and floss
2. daily. Remember to clean your tongue too, since it often harbours bacteria that cause bad breath.
3. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. A hydrated mouth produces more saliva, which naturally helps clean away bacteria.
4. Freshen up between meals: Sugar-free gum or mints can stimulate saliva and mask odour.
5. Watch what you eat and drink: Limit foods known to cause odour (like garlic and onions) before important events. Reduce alcohol and coffee intake, both of which dry out the mouth.
6. Quit smoking: Tobacco causes lasting odours in both the mouth and windpipe. Quitting benefits not only your breath but also your overall health.
7. Use mouthwash (the right way): Using an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and freshen your breath, but it should never replace brushing and flossing.
8. Visit your dentist regularly: Persistent bad breath can be a sign of gum disease, cavities, or other
9. conditions. Routine dental visits allow early detection and treatment of underlying issues.

When to see a dentist

Bad breath that doesn’t improve with oral care may be linked to a deeper health problem such as gum diseases or cavities. Consult a dentist if you notice persistent odour, swollen or bleeding gums. With consistent oral hygiene and routine dental visits, you can enjoy a healthier mouth and fresher breath.

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Dr Tan Kian Meng is a Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics with Specialist Dental Group®. He is also a Clinical Lecturer at the National University of Singapore and Diplomate with the American Board of Prosthodontics. He was formerly a Consultant at Singapore’s Khoo Teck Puat Hospital and Fellow of Maxillofacial Prosthetics and Oncologic Dentistry Fellowship at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr Tan has special interest in prosthetic and implant restorative dentistry. http://www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883

Find Your Lane with the CIS Huskies Swim Team

 Every child’s journey in the pool looks different, and at the Canadian International School (CIS): there’s a lane for everyone. Swimming is a core sport at CIS and the Huskies Swim Team offers one of Singapore’s most comprehensive school swimming programmes, supported by experienced coaches and a community that feels like family.

A 3-level path from Beginner to Elite

Beginners as young as six start in the Learn to Swim programme, where confidence, safety, and strong foundations come first. From there, athletes progress to the pre-competitive squad, mastering advanced stroke techniques and building stamina as they prepare for the Huskies Swim Team.

With over 250 weekly training slots before and after school, and on weekends, parents value the flexibility as much as the structure and facilities. Some swimmers balance two sessions a week alongside other activities, while others commit to six or seven, training like professional athletes for national-level success. At the performance level, the school also offers strength and conditioning gym sessions, nutrition guidance and recovery support including ice baths!

Celebrating success in the pool

Huskies consistently shine at inter-school competitions, swim meets and international championships. At the recent SJI International U12 meet, CIS swimmers brought home 20 gold, 9 silver, and 15 bronze medals. Some take their journey to the very top, like Paris 2024 Olympian Lanihei C. and five-time Singapore National Age Group champion Ivan M. The school rewards hard work by awarding scholarships. This gives top athletes the opportunity to accelerate their skills and compete at the highest levels.

A community like no other

“As a parent to 3 CIS swimmers, the Huskies are not just another sports team, they are our family. Coach Helen and her team are always there to support all our children, and they have worked tirelessly to build a kind, supportive and inspiring swim community within the school.” – Melessa Tan (CIS parent since 2016)

Learn more about CIS at an Open House today - register here to secure your spot.