Dual-Language Children's Book – Bosley's New Friends

Disclosure: I received the Bosley’s New Friends (French-English) book to facilitate my Dual-Language Children’s Book Review. Regardless, all opinions are my own and those of my family.

We are teaching our children French, which is the other language I know fairly well. I studied it through high school and while I was in college. It was only natural for me to include it in our children’s education as well! Unfortunately, though, because it isn’t taught to young children as frequently, helpful resources can be scarce. I believe this can be said of many languages. This is particularly true of resources beyond a formal curriculum.
When I was introduced to Bosley’s New Friends, I could not believe all of the languages in which it’s available. In fact, on Bosley, the Language Bear there is a dual language book available in many different languages as well as a variety of titles.
What I find most appealing about Bosley’s New Friends is not only is it offered in many languages (these include: Spanish, German, Italian, French, Russian, Portuguese, Japanese, Chinese, Hindi), but the story itself is also about language.
Bosley is wanting to play with other animals but can’t understand why they won’t play with him. He is having a hard time understanding why they don’t understand him when he talks and why he doesn’t understand them. After speaking with his dad he learns about how they speak different languages and how we can learn a new language one word at a time – sometimes by just watching, listening and trying to understand.

I think this is a wonderful message for young children because to some, learning another language comes easily while to others it may not be as easy. It’s a good reminder that it takes time and patience, which is what Bosley had to learn. Eventually he learned many of the words spoken by the other animals and made many new friends! To me, this message also helps to express the ability to build bridges to connect to others who speak another language or even live in another country. Learning another language is building a connection with those that speak that language.
We have used a variety of techniques to teach our children French, and I am definitely excited to add Bosley’s New Friends to our book list. I, personally, choose to read the page in English first and then in French. You can approach how you use it to the way you feel your children will best learn. Sometimes I choose to read it in French only and point the pictures as I’m saying the words they are learning. I also point to the pictures when reading in French after I have read the English as well to reinforce what had been read.
Story interruptions are usually discouraged, but I definitely allow them to stop me and ask questions or confirm their thoughts. “Oh, so ‘les oiseaux’ are ‘the birds!'” Then their faces light up when I confirm it or answer their questions. All three children (ages 8, 6, and 4) really enjoy Bosley’s New Friends and have all interjected thoughts or asked questions. So I know they not only enjoy the story but really are learning from it as well!
The Bosley the Language Bear books are more than just two languages, which really adds to the learning experience. It uses repeating words to reinforce that word, opposites, highlighted text, corresponding imagery and contextual learning. Learn more about Bosley’s Dual Language Books.
I think dual language books are a fantastic way to teach and reinforce another language, and I think Bosley the Language Bear really covers all of the bases. In fact, I would say they go above and beyond! I was so impressed with the details and approach to learning that they use and will definitely be checking out other titles!
Bosley the Language Bear also offers great resources on their website like a Free Teacher’s Guide and a blog!

For More Information:

Visit the Bosley the Language Bear Website
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