Introduction

 

Bilingualism is more than a communication skill — it is a powerful influence on brain health across the lifespan. Research shows that managing multiple languages strengthens cognitive flexibility, enhances neural resilience, and may protect against age-related decline. Early bilingual experiences shape children’s brain development, while lifelong bilingualism supports healthy aging. In this symposium, our speakers will explore with us how bilingualism contributes to cognitive vitality, from childhood through adulthood, and consider practical approaches for families raising multilingual children. Together, these perspectives highlight bilingualism not only as a cultural asset but also as a key factor in sustaining brain health and wellbeing.

Speakers

 

Professor Twila TARDIF

Early language experiences and the bilingual brain

National University of Singapore, Singapore
Professor Mark ANTONIOU

How bilingualism promotes healthy brain ageing and counteracts age-related cognitive decline

Western Sydney University, Australia
Professor Maggie MAI

Unlock Your family’s Superpower: Principles and Practical Guide to Raising a Multilingual Child

The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Professor Patrick WONG

Opening Address

The Chinese University of Hong Kong

 

 

 

Rundown



Bilingualism and Brain Health Roundtable
Friday, 13 March 2026
10:30 – 12:00

BMI Multi-Function Room, Brain and Mind Institute, 4/F,
Hui Yeung Shing Building, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong

10:00 - 10:30 Registration
10:30 - 10:40 Introduction
Professor Patrick WONG
Stanley Ho Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience;
Director, Brain and Mind Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong;
Associate Vice-President (Research), The Chinese University of Hong Kong
10:40 - 10:45 Group Photo
10:45 - 12:00 Open Forum (Presentation Schedule)

 


Symposium
Saturday, 14 March 2026
14:00 – 17:00

Dr. Stanley Ho Medical Development Foundation
9/F, ICBC Tower, New Orient Landmark Hotel,
555 Avenida da Amizade, Macau

13:30 - 14:00 Registration
14:00 - 14:15 Opening Address
Professor Patrick WONG
Stanley Ho Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience;
Director, Brain and Mind Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong;
Associate Vice-President (Research), The Chinese University of Hong Kong
14:15 - 14:20 Group Photo
Symposium: Part One
14:20 - 14:35 Early language experiences and the bilingual brain
Professor Twila Tardif
Professor, Department of Paediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore;
Professor Emerita, Psychology and Asian Languages and Cultures, The University of Michigan
15:00 - 15:20 Break
Symposium: Part Two
15:20 - 16:00 How bilingualism promotes healthy brain ageing and counteracts age-related cognitive decline
Professor Mark Antoniou
Associate Professor, the MARCS Institute for Brain, Behaviour and Development, Western Sydney University
16:00 - 16:40 Unlock Your family’s Superpower: Principles and Practical Guide to Raising a Multilingual Child
Professor Maggie Ziyin Mai
Associate Professor, Department of Linguistics and Modern Languages, The Chinese University of Hong Kong;
Deputy Director, Childhood Bilingualism Research Centre, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
16:40 - 17:00 Summary and Discussion