"A child taught a second language after the age of 10 or so is unlikely ever to speak it like a native," said a February 1996 Newsweek article. Through extensive research it has been proven that the earlier a child is introduced to a second language the greater the chances are that this child will master both languages. A number of experts attribute this mastery to physiological changes that occur in the maturing brain as a child enters puberty.
If you, as a parent, truly want your child to have a greater understanding of the English language and to do better in school, then start teaching your children a foreign language now. Studies have shown that native English speakers who study a foreign language when young do not fall behind in their native language development. In fact, children enrolled in foreign language programs score statistically higher on standardized tests conducted in English. A number of reports have demonstrated that children who have learned a second language earn higher SAT scores, particularly on the verbal section of the test. One study showed that by the fifth year of an immersion program students outperform all comparison groups and remain high academic achievers throughout their schooling.
There are many benefits that a child and a parent receive through the study of a new language. A foreign language opens a whole new cultural world to your child. Your child will be able to express himself in new, profound ways. And knowing a second language will give your child a competitive edge when entering the workforce. Professionals who speak a second language are called on to travel and exchange information with people in other countries throughout their careers. Knowing more than one language enhances opportunities in government, business, medicine and health care, law enforcement, teaching, technology, the military, communications, industry, social service, and marketing. An employer will see you as a bridge to new clients or customers if you know a second language.
The key to helping your child learn a new language is to become actively involved yourself. Take your child to cultural events that feature music, dance, or food from the country that they are learning about. Learn the language yourself. Help motivate your child by learning beside him; working together on language-learning exercises is time well spent. If possible, surround your children with books, videos, TV programs and software in the target second language to help them learn.
Teaching your children a second language will provide them with the skills to succeed in the future, and the process can be an enjoyable project for families. Even if your children are no longer under age 10, learning a second language is a valuable skill at any age, so start sooner rather than later.
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