Raising a Bilingual Baby: Simple Tips for Early Language Success Why I Introduced My Toddler to Finnish and German From the start, we approached language intentionally. Living in Finland , it’s important for our son to learn Finnish . At the same time, I want him to grow up with my native language, German . We incorporate both languages into daily routines, while he also naturally encounters some English (because why not throw in a third language while he’s barely walking?). Research shows that early exposure to multiple languages supports cognitive flexibility and language development . Children learn best when they are actively addressed , which is why we make everyday interactions interactive and engaging in both Finnish and German. Although he isn’t speaking yet, he appears to understand both languages . We play Finnish songs for listening, read mainly Finnish books , and describe objects and activities in both languages . At around 13 months, he beg...