Yew Chung College of Early Childhood Education (YCCECE) hosted a seminar titled “Language and Literacy Development from Infancy to Adolescence: Insights from English, Cantonese, and Mandarin” on 21 November 2025, featuring Professor Twila Tardif from the National University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine.

Professor Tardif examined how early language development is shaped by linguistic and social environments. Presenting data from longitudinal studies, she emphasised that early language skills are related to long-term academic achievement, literacy, and multiple life outcomes.

The seminar highlighted key differences in how children acquire distinct languages—such as the role of tones in Cantonese and phonological awareness in English—and how these pathways influence literacy development. Professor Tardif also shared cognitive neuroscience insights, noting that quality bilingual exposure can enhance brain connectivity and support cognitive flexibility, while maintaining proficiency in the heritage language contributes positively to English literacy.

The event provided faculty with research-based perspectives on nurturing multilingual learners, supporting YCCECE’s commitment to evidence-informed early childhood education in linguistically diverse settings.