How Spanish-speaking Latino children's language environments affect their bilingual development

Spanish-speaking Latinos' Early Language Environments and Dual Language Development

['FUNDING_R15'] · LOYOLA UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO · NIH-11090020

This study looks at how talking with family and hearing conversations around them helps Spanish-speaking Latino kids learn two languages, and it aims to find the best ways to support their bilingual growth.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R15']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorLOYOLA UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11090020 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how different sources of language exposure, such as interactions with caregivers and other family members, influence bilingual language development in Spanish-speaking Latino children. It focuses on understanding the role of cultural values in shaping these interactions and the types of language input children receive. By examining both direct communication and overheard speech, the study aims to identify effective strategies for fostering bilingualism in young children. The research will involve observing and analyzing language interactions in natural settings to gather insights on promoting healthy language outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are Spanish-speaking Latino children aged 0-11 and their caregivers.

Not a fit: Children who are not exposed to bilingual environments or who do not have Spanish-speaking caregivers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance bilingual language development in Latino children, leading to better academic outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that rich language exposure significantly benefits language development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

CHICAGO, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.