Benefits of Learning Another Language...

There are many important reasons to expose children to another language at an early age.  Although people of all ages can learn a second language, studies have shown that children's brains favor early development of languages.  Therefore, the optimal time for children to acquire another language is between 2 and 8 years old.  For this reason, we focus on teaching languages to children at an early age because we understand that this time period is critical and influential to the rest of their lives.  And, learning another language does not confuse or hinder children, but it helps them to master their first language.

Researchers have also found that children who learn another language when they are young:

    are more creative
    are better at solving problems
    score higher on both verbal and non-verbal intelligence tests
    gain the ability to communicate with more people
    read more literature
    have a broadened appreciation of other cultures, people
    achieve higher scores on standarized tests
    attain and retain a native-like pronunciation
    gain a competitive advantage in the workplace with enhanced career opportunities
    are able to get beyond linguistic ethnocentrism
    develop cultural respect
    learn how another culture operates, how its speakers think and form their ideas into words
    gain a new language with which to make friends, to enjoy songs, poetry; to travel to different places
    become more proficient in their native language

These are just some of the hundreds of benefits from learning another language.  For more benefits and additional information about acquiring a second language, check out these links:

Benefits of Being Bilingual

Learning a Second Language at an Early Age...

Earlier is Better: Do You Want Your Children To Learn a Second Language? Start Them Before Puberty!

Why, How, and When Should My Child Learn a Second Language? (PDF)

Should I raise my children bilingually? Resource Guide

Two or More Languages in Early Childhood: Some General Points and Practical Recommendations

Learning new language helps reduce brain decay

Brain Research: Implications for Second Language Learning

Educating the Global Citizen: World Languages Resources for K-12 Teachers and Parents.  Why learn a second language?

Why Study a Foreign Language?

Learning Another Language Offers Both Personal and Professional Benefits

A Rationale For Foreign Language Education