Children learn words for things that interest them. We all learn more when we are interested in something.
Research shows that learning a second language boosts problem-solving, critical-thinking, and listening skills, in addition to improving memory, concentration, and the ability to multitask. Children proficient in other languages also show signs of enhanced creativity and mental flexibility.
It’s never too early to begin learning a language: it’s fun, it promotes healthy development, and the many cognitive and social benefits will last a lifetime. Here are some of the reasons why learning a language puts your child at a significant advantage, and how you can help—whether or not you know another language.
1 Start Early, Stay Long!
The length of time a student is able to devote to learning a language has a direct and positive correlation to cognitive development. Longer sequences also provide the opportunity for learners to grow alongside the additional language and culture, developing a deeper connection as they mature.
2 Feed Their Brains
Research shows that learning a second language boosts problem-solving, critical-thinking, and listening skills, in addition to improving memory, concentration, and the ability to multitask. Children proficient in other languages also show signs of enhanced creativity and mental flexibility.
3 Boost Their Academic Achievement
The cognitive benefits of learning a language have a direct impact on a child’s academic achievement. Compared to those without an additional language, bilingual children have improved reading, writing, and math skills, and they generally score higher on standardized tests.
4 Nurture Their Curiosity, Cultural Sensitivity, Empathy, and Tolerance
Children who are exposed early to other languages display more positive attitudes to the cultures associated with those languages. The experience of learning a language introduces them to the world in ways they might otherwise have not experienced.
What You Can Do to Help Your Child?
Whether you are bilingual or this is your first experience with another language, your support will make a tremendous difference to your child’s success. You don’t have to be fluent in the language your child is learning in order to create an encouraging and active learning environment. Provide as many opportunities for authentic experiences as you can and check out the many online tools and resources available at your fingertips.
Here are five techniques that you can use to incorporate a foreign language into your child's routine.
Teach through repetition. ...
Use big gestures and physical demonstrations. ...
Create a positive learning environment. ...
Teach through engaging activities. ...
Do your own play-by-play.
What are the benefits of learning a second language?
It improves your memory. The more you use your brain to learn new skills, the more your brain's functions work. ...
Enhances your ability to multitask. ...
Improves your performance in other academic areas.
Does learning a second language impact brain development?
Language learning helps improve people's thinking skills and memory abilities. ... “Because the language centers in the brain are so flexible, learning a second language can develop new areas of your mind and strengthen your brain's natural ability to focus.
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Should I speak to my child in my second language?
When should we start speaking to our child in two different languages? There is no right or wrong time to start helping your child learn a second language, but the earlier you can do this, the better. ... It's true that it's easier to start earlier, but people can learn a second language at any age.”
Raising multilingual or bilingual children: tips
Read and tell stories in your language, and encourage your child to join in. ...
Play games in your language, especially games that focus on language, like 'I spy', bingo, 'Who am I? ...
Sing songs, dance and play music in your language.
How can I help my child learn another language?
7 valuable ways to encourage your child to learn another language
Speak with them. ...
Study with them. ...
Find entertainment in that language. ...
Have them join a language course. ...
Find study groups. ...
Look within your community. ...
Use apps and online tools.