Supporting bilingualism abroad: Polish Bilingual Day

In October, we celebrate Polish Bilingual Day (October 19–20, 2024). It is a wonderful opportunity to remind Poles living abroad of the values ​​inherent in bilingualism and to showcase the benefits of knowing multiple languages. We firmly believe that by teaching children Polish, we are passing on a great gift—an opportunity for personal growth, communication, tolerance, an understanding of other cultures, and a better future. That is why, for many years, we have supported this important occasion and encouraged our readers to participate in events marking the celebration of bilingualism.

As a bookstore dedicated to supporting children, parents, and teachers on the journey toward bilingualism, participating in this day is a vital part of our mission.

Discover 3 secrets of bilingualism: A webinar marking the launch of the book *Dwujęzyczna moc* (Bilingual Power)
To mark Polish Bilingual Day, we hosted a webinar that also served as the launch event for our latest book, *Dwujęzyczna moc* (Bilingual Power) by Dr. A. Nott-Bower.

Watch the recording: Discover 3 secrets of bilingualism – Webinar marking the launch of the book *Dwujęzyczna moc*

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Special thanks to our wonderful guests:

Kamila Wilkosz, Bilingual Speech and Language Therapist, Target Logopeda London

Ryszarda Kozikowska-Dub, Polish Saturday School in Lancaster

Maksi Kozińska, Anglia Ruskin University, Director of Secondary Education at... Królowej Jadwigi Forest Gate – Ilford

Thank you to everyone who joined us live: your presence, creativity, and engagement have further strengthened our conviction that this topic needs to be discussed among parents, teachers, and students.

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Thank you for your creativity!

Below, we present all the poems written by the participants of yesterday’s webinar. We hope these rhymes inspire you to discover new benefits of bilingualism—or perhaps even inspire you to write a poem of your own!

A rhyming contest inspired by the Polish Diaspora Bilingualism Day and the book *Szalik. O Wisławie Szymborskiej dla dzieci* [The Scarf: About Wisława Szymborska for Children] by Michał Rusinek.

"We bring you a message
Of bilingual power
Whenever you
Need a helping hand"

Izabela, *Czytam i mówię po polsku* [I Read and Speak Polish] Bookstore

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"Bilingualism—it’s a superpower; want to see it? Come along! Open the pages of this adventure and mix codes with us! Two languages—new experiences; I change my perspective on the world. If a word slips my mind, I have another ready to go. I start a conversation—that's not bad—am I right?" Ania, Speech Therapy Warsaw

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"Bilingualism is great fun,
Two tongues to juggle — what a ride, huh?

One moment you say 'cześć,' the next 'hello,'
Switching like magic, watch you go!

Two worlds in your head—it’s not a mistake,
Two worlds in your head — you're never lost!

Together these languages ​​give you power,
Learning both makes you a total boss!"

Max

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"I am bilingual, and that is my superpower. I listen, read, and practice; sometimes I get frustrated when I can't find the right word. That’s when my mom steps in—she’s been teaching me since morning to express myself beautifully and never give up. The Polish language is a treasure, a gift I’m proud of; I keep learning and exploring, but I never quit. I have bilingual power and love to read every night."

Magdalena

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"Small head, big head—using different words; a foreign language or Polish—it causes no worry."

"Bilinguals have power; they can speak day and night."

"I promote the Polish language—sharing good values."

Magda NL

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"It’s Saturday, I’m happy to rise,

To see my gang with my own eyes.

At Polish school, I learn and grow,

Can hardly wait for the time to go.

It’s nine o’clock, I’m in the class,

Ms. Aga’s here—doing great, alas.

Bilingualism is truly grand,

Though sometimes it’s hard to command.

Two languages—or even three—

It isn’t easy, believe me." Anna

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"Bilingualism builds bridges between cultures; with every word, we open new doors. Conversations, culture, and new experiences—bilingualism is the key to making dreams come true."

Ryszarda

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If you’d like to join in on this bilingual fun, write your own poem in the comments. We look forward to seeing your work!