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Best Books for Multilingual Homes

6/24/2025

 
Explore books that celebrate multilingualism and help families raise confident, language-loving children.
PictureLanguage Is Our Music
In a world where multilingualism is increasingly celebrated, certain books highlight the innovative language-learning methods that make it possible for families to immerse themselves in multiple languages naturally and joyfully. Drawing from groundbreaking works like Yo Sakakibara’s Language Is Our Music, LEX/Hippo Family Club offers unique approaches to language acquisition that combine immersion and play. These books, filled with heartwarming stories, scientific insights and practical advice, inspire families to embrace multilingual adventure, turning everyday life into a language-learning experience that feels as natural as speaking. Whether you’re looking to understand the theory behind multilingualism or explore fun, immersive activities for the whole family, these Linguistics & STEM books offer a diverse, accessible and inspiring approach.​

1. Language Is Our Music: The Natural Way to Multilingualism
​by Yo Sakakibara

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Discover the groundbreaking language learning methods of Yo Sakakibara. From heartwarming tales of kids picking up languages to scientific dives into vowel sounds, Sakakibara explores everything from musical scales to the essence of being human. His innovative ideas come to life at LEX / Hippo Family Club, where people of all ages immerse themselves in multiple languages through “singing the sounds of language” via mimicking audio stories and other fun group activities. Supported by MIT linguist Dr. Suzanne Flynn, this unique approach makes language learning natural and joyful. Even Dr. Noam Chomsky has praised this inspiring program for its remarkable progress.
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PictureAnyone Can Speak 7 Languages
2. Anyone Can Speak 7 Languages
by Hippo Family Club


This inspiring collection of essays dives into how both kids and adults can naturally pick up multiple languages through immersion. Packed with heartwarming stories, it offers a glimpse into the innovative methods of LEX / Hippo Family Club.

“Just thinking about it creates a sense of hope, joy, and freshness. I have always had difficulties with language and am intrigued by this approach… Thank you for such an encouraging message.”

– Reader quote


PictureA Multilingual Adventure
3. A Multilingual Adventure: The LEX Way
By Yuka Fujimura

 
Written by students at the Transnational College of LEX under the pseudonym Yuka Fujimura, this book dives into the fun and philosophy behind LEX / Hippo Family Club’s unique language-learning methods. Through fascinating discussions on history, math, linguistics, and science, it unpacks LEX’s global approach to multilingual immersion. This bilingual (English/Japanese) edition is perfect for anyone curious about learning multiple languages naturally.

“Cracking the Code to Language Acquisition. The book provides historical context and revelations of a unique approach to learning multiple languages simultaneously. I particularly enjoyed the section that explored the similarities, overlap and historical context of Asian languages. The book also describes some of the aha moments in developing a language acquisition program, focusing on a unique pathway that mimics how we learn our first language v. more common approaches such as reading/classroom work. I highly recommend this book for all those interested in a novel approach to language acquisition!”

-Reader quote

PictureMultilingual Natural Immersion
4. Multilingual Natural Immersion 
​by Kenshi Suzuki
多言語の音の波に自然に浸ろう: Multilingual Natural Immersion


In this updated guide only available in Japanese, LEX / Hippo President Kenshi Suzuki explores the latest breakthroughs in natural language learning from 2010-2020. Discover the innovative “Munaimmer House” concept, where families use multiple audio speakers to create a multilingual environment at home. Suzuki also shares insights on being multilingual, reflections on his time in New York, and highlights from the Joint Research Project on Multilingualism and the Brain. Plus, dive into his adventures across Mongolia, Kazakhstan, and the Silk Road.

Curious about LEX’s revolutionary approach? This book is your passport to a world of natural, immersive language learning!


PictureWho Is Fourier?
5. Who Is Fourier? A Mathematical Adventure
by Transnational College of LEX


With a foreword by Dr. Dan Rockmore, the student authors of the Transnational College of LEX in Tokyo take the reader along on their adventure of discovery of Fourier’s wave analysis. The result is a work that gradually moves from basics to the more complicated mathematics of trigonometry, exponentiation, differentiation and integration, covering Fourier Series, Fourier Coefficients, the Fourier Transform, and the FFT Method. And, most importantly, it’s done in a way that’s easy to understand.


PictureWhat Is Quantum Mechanics?
6. What Is Quantum Mechanics? A Physics Adventure
by Transnational College of LEX


Translated by John Nambu with a foreword by Nobel laureate Dr. Yoichiro Nambu, this book continues the approachable style of Who Is Fourier? by offering an engaging exploration of quantum mechanics. It introduces key concepts like the Photoelectric Effect, Compton Effect, Schrödinger’s Equation and the Uncertainty Principle, blending theory with historical context. Readers meet the brilliant minds of Planck, Einstein, Bohr, Heisenberg and more, making this a fascinating guide to quantum mechanics for learners seeking an accessible and inspiring introduction to natural science.


PictureWhat Is DNA?
7. What Is DNA? A Biology Adventure
by Transnational College of LEX


This book explores the wonders of molecular biology with humor and vivid illustrations. This engaging book delves into DNA, genetics and evolution, uncovering the secrets of human organisms and language. Perfect for curious minds of all ages, it blends education and fun, drawing readers into a fascinating scientific journey. Discover the rapidly evolving world of biology through the enthusiastic storytelling of these Tokyo-based student authors.

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Home Sweet Multilingual Home

6/10/2025

 
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See how multilingual families create vibrant homes where languages grow naturally through daily life.
Creating a multilingual environment at home is a rewarding way to support language development in children and adults alike. Whether you’re raising kids who are learning multiple languages, want to improve your own language skills, or simply want to immerse yourself in another culture, making your home a space that encourages language learning can make a big difference. Here are some practical tips to help you create a multilingual environment at home.

Use the Languages You are Acquiring Regularly
Speaking out is important. Making mistakes is normal. The goal is to build confidence and fluency. You can set up language exchange sessions with family members, friends, or online language partners (Like contemporaries using LEX). If you live with others, try holding regular “language days” where everyone immerses themselves in the target language. This can help break down the barrier of speaking and make the learning process more fun. Or try one of our language clubs. Members get together at least once a week in a fun and supportive environment to share the sounds of languages we are acquiring and encourage each other to speak. Clubs are available online or in-person. There are no tests, no homework and no judgment. 
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Establish Language Zones
Designating specific areas in your home for each language can help reinforce different contexts. For instance, you might choose to speak English in the kitchen, Spanish in the living room, and French in the study. Having “language zones” allows everyone in the household to associate certain activities or spaces with a specific language. This structure can be particularly effective if you’re raising bilingual or multilingual children.

Create Your Own Multilingual Immersion Environment
Using audio materials with songs and stories told in various languages, you can create a similar environment to what you would encounter living in Europe, India, Africa, South East Asia, or any multilingual part of the world where you are exposed to multiple languages in the home, street, market or wherever else and pick them up naturally in context. LEX Language audio recordings and transcripts are ideal for acquiring languages naturally by listening to native speakers tell stories about everyday life. We listen to the audio materials like background music whenever possible to create a natural immersion environment. The more we hear a language, the more familiar it becomes.
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Incorporate Media and Entertainment
Surround yourself with multilingual media. This could include watching movies, listening to music or reading books in your target languages. Kids’ TV shows, cartoons, or educational YouTube channels in different languages are a great way for children to pick up new words in a fun, engaging way. For adults, listening to podcasts or reading novels in your target language will help expand your  vocabulary and improve listening skills. 

Invest in multilingual resources like books, apps, and games. These can help both kids and adults increase the depth and breadth of language exposure. For younger kids, multilingual storybooks are a fantastic way to expose them to different languages in an entertaining way. Kanji cards can also be a way to effortlessly learn 25 essential Japanese character kanji.

Create a Routine
Consistency is key in any language-learning journey. Try to incorporate exposure to various languages into your daily routine. Much like math builds on itself, the same is true with language learning. You could dedicate a few minutes each morning to actively listening to audio materials or have a specific time each week for a “language family night,” where everyone plays with languages together. The more you integrate languages into everyday life, the easier and more fun it will be.

Celebrate Multicultural Holidays
Celebrating multicultural holidays and traditions is a great way to learn about different cultures while sharing the language. You could celebrate holidays from countries where your target language is spoken, or even cook traditional dishes while practicing food-related vocabulary. LEX has a language of the month series, which is a great way to learn about a new language and culture each month!
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Final Thoughts
​Creating a multilingual environment at home doesn’t require a lot of fancy tools or expensive resources. It’s about consistency, exposure and making learning fun. By following these tips and integrating language learning into your everyday life, you’ll not only improve your language skills but also create a richer, more connected home environment for everyone. Happy learning!

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  • Home
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      • COVID, Weather, and Food and Drink Policies
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