Globalization and new technological discoveries have led to an increased number of parents teaching their kids a second language knowing how beneficial it is. Largely, these benefits reflect that learning has started at an early age. Hence, one MUST start learning a new language at a nascent stage.
You may also like: Does your child speak two languages? Here is why they are smarter!
Research shows that minds of babies who are less than a year old are open, receptive and absorb information like a sponge. Learning a foreign language comes organically to them and they can soak up to 3 languages with ease. Furthermore, through the age of 6-7 years, children can learn to speak a second language with fluency and not hinder it with native accents. However, after this age, the ability to ace a foreign language declines gradually.
Keeping the above in mind, below are the 5 reasons why your child should learn any foreign language:
Neurological benefits :
Multilingual kids have cognitive abilities which are different from monolinguals. Using an alternate language in troubleshooting problems leads to more lucid rationales. There is less emotional bias thereby resulting in a clearer, more logical and analytical approach. This is an important skill for discussions & negotiations. Brain health improves, particularly with regards to diseases that come with ageing like Alzheimer and dementia. Learning foreign languages can be the ideal way to avert these diseases later in life. The constant “mental gymnastics” also helps in multi-tasking while doing your routine jobs.
Better recreation – Joie de Vivre:
Kids are restless and require constant stimulation. Setting aside some time to learn a new language can be a prolific hobby for the child. Also, the process should be more like role play based or it becomes a painful task.
You may also like: Here’s how your kids can learn upto 30 languages!
Wider social circle and reach :
When you can speak to people in their own language you establish deeper connects and understanding with them and stand to gain culturally diverse friends across geographies, thus expanding one’s social reach. Children witness experiences that help them enhance their empathy through stronger insights into people’s perception towards the world. And in turn being considerate to them.
You may also like: Expert tips to get your kids to talk
Jumpstart in scores :
A sample study of thousands of high school students has found that students who have studied foreign languages perform better in entrance exams/ competitive tests like SAT, GMAT, ACT, etc. So if you want your child to excel at those tests, encourage him/her to learn a foreign language.
Career possibilities and higher standards of living :
People who can speak a second language have a lot of opportunities in fields of education, healthcare, travel and tourism, security, translation and international business. And knowing a foreign language can make it easier to be eligible for jobs, internships and work-study programs in other countries. This, in turn, may also result in improving one’s standards of living.
Apart from the above-mentioned benefits it provides numerous other benefits like travelling becomes much more fun, it boosts creativity and confidence, helps children in learning music, and the speed of learning other languages increases, etc. So the next time you and your child go to watch Amelie without subtitles or listen to a Spanish rap you are sure to enjoy it more!
You may also like: Language development delay in kids- warning signs
Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Soundcloud & Instagram or subscribe to our YoutubeChannel for more information.
Mansi Zaveri
KSP Team
Janani S Koushik
