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.
Early language experiences and the bilingual brain
How bilingualism promotes healthy brain ageing and counteracts age-related cognitive decline
Unlock Your family’s Superpower: Principles and Practical Guide to Raising a Multilingual Child
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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
