Bilingual Babies: Which Netflix Shows Can Help Children Learn Languages?

Researchers at Preply have combed through the data to uncover across Netflix which kids TV shows have the most translated versions available and help children access and learn new languages as part of their campaign.

As our world continues to become more interconnected, learning new languages is at its most accessible ever. Bilingualism is becoming more of a norm as approximately 33 billion people worldwide are bilingual, accounting for 43% of the population.

In the UK however, only 38% of Brits can speak a second language, compared to the European average of 56%. However, it is often said that children can learn languages more easily than adults. 

According to the critical period hypothesis, children learn languages more easily because their brains are still developing. The brain elasticity and rapid neural formation mean that babies and young children are able to learn languages at a faster rate. This is sometimes referred to as the “critical period”.

And there are many advantages to getting an early start in language learning. A recent study reported that learning a second language can increase income by 15%, and create new opportunities both in your career and personal life. 

Watching TV shows can be one of the best ways for your little ones to pick up a new language. In fact, over 77% of languages learners agree that watching TV shows or films in another language can help them learn. 

The team at online language learning platform Preply have gathered data from Netflix to discover which children’s TV shows can be translated the most. 

Shows include Peppa Pig, which can be translated into five languages, and Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom.

And if you’re looking to also help your child read in another language, these shows offer subtitles in different languages too.

The research follows news that the Government is planning to fund a £4 million scheme to support language learning in schools. The Latin Excellence Programme aims to help students with French, Spanish, Portuguese and Italian and Latin learning.  

The next phase of the government’s language programme includes a £16.4 million Mandarin Excellence Programme, and a £4.8 million Modern Languages pilot. 

Daniele Saccardi from Preply said:

“Children are great at learning languages because their brains are still developing. 

“Watching TV shows in another language is a great tool to use to encourage your child to learn a new language. Many children learn best through context, and seeing images on the screen can help them associate words with meaning.

“If you’re looking to encourage your child to start learning a second language, try using their favourite shows and switching the audio”.