Speaking two or more languages seems like a superpower, and research confirms it. For children in particular, bilingualism brings cognitive advantages, while providing a cultural, social and identity bridge. The fear that early exposure to a second language might delay the development of the mother tongue is unfounded. By the age of three, babies’ brains go through an intense phase of development, rapidly absorbing information from different languages. With the right exposure and linguistic stimulation, children can learn several languages simultaneously, without negatively affecting the acquisition of any one of them.

Bilingualism is not limited to spoken languages. For deaf people, bilingualism is between sign language and spoken language. Sign language, a language with a complex linguistic system with its own grammar, syntax and culture, is the natural language of deaf people. The debate on language education for deaf children remains controversial, especially in the age of advanced assistive listening technologies. A call published in the Social Service Review in December 2016, signed by researchers – many of them hearing-impaired – draws attention to the negative effects of an exclusively spoken language approach relying on hearing correction technology. Although it can improve sound perception, hearing is not the natural way deaf children explore the world. Lack of exposure to sign language in those crucial early years can lead to delays in spoken language development, as well as cognitive and social impairments. Learning sign language can only support the development of spoken language and facilitate integration into society.

A fascinating example of the power of bilingualism comes from the island community of Martha’s Vineyard in the eastern United States. In the 18th and 19th centuries, deafness was widespread on the island, with every family having at least one deaf member. In response, the whole community – deaf and hearing – learned sign language. Thus, bilingualism between English and sign language became the norm, eliminating any language barriers between members of the community. In interviews with residents, it was noted that the term ‘deaf’ was no longer used to describe people, but had become irrelevant. This example shows how bilingualism can help create an inclusive society for the benefit of all.

Bilingualism is more than a practical advantage: it is an expression of diversity and a tool for integration. From children to entire communities, the superpower of using multiple languages opens doors and unites worlds.