The Impact of Early Bilingualism on Word Retrieval Accuracy and Speed in Arabic–English Kindergarteners of Saudi Descent

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of early bilingualism on word retrieval among Saudi kindergarteners, focusing on accuracy and speed in Arabic-English bilinguals compared to Arabic monolinguals. Eighty-four children participated: 42 bilinguals and 42 monolinguals. All completed the Arabic Expressive Vocabulary Test, while bilinguals also took the English Expressive Vocabulary Test. Receptive vocabulary was assessed with the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test and its Arabic equivalent. Parents of bilinguals completed questionnaires on language exposure and perceived retrieval abilities. Results showed bilinguals had lower accuracy and slower retrieval in Arabic than monolinguals. A notable gap emerged between receptive and expressive vocabulary, with bilinguals demonstrating stronger comprehension than production, especially in their first language. No correlation was found between greater English exposure and improved retrieval, and parents’ perceptions did not align with actual performance, underscoring the importance of exposure quality rather than quantity and highlighting the need for targeted strategies to support bilingual development.