The importance of a second language

In the connected world of today, there has perhaps been no better time for your child to learn a second language. This skill could be put into good use for a number of future life opportunities, as well as benefiting the way they think about the world. (Plus, it’ll be really helpful on holidays!) Here’s why we think your child should learn to be bilingual.

It’s good for your child’s mind

The functionality of your child’s brain improves when they learn another language as their mind is challenged to recognise, comprehend and communicate within a completely different set of rules and sounds. This in turn improves their other skills - improving their memory, problem-solving, critical-thinking, concentration and ability to multitask - talk about a domino effect! This is why children and young adults who learn a foreign language usually score better on standardised tests - especially in maths, reading and vocabulary.

It gives them better future prospects

In almost every area of life, being bilingual will be useful for your child. Besides making them the ‘cool kid’ at school that can speak a second language, they will also have a better chance of being accepted to the best schools and universities, not to mention being offered their preferred career positions. It can’t be underestimated how valuable a second language is in terms of how it opens doors in the globalized world we live in.

It gives them perspective

Quite often, bilingual children are more interested in international subjects than monolingual children. When they explore the countries, rituals and ways that their second language is associated with, they will compare it with their own culture and gain perspective on the world. The appreciation that can be gained from this at a young age is astounding.

It helps them connect with the other people

One of the most beautiful reasons that learning a language is great for your child is the connection it enables them to have with other people. Bilinguals have the opportunity to connect with a wider number of people - to have a positive impact on a wider number of lives. They will be able to move across the world and still be a local (by language at least!) and if there’s one more thing we need today, it’s for people to know and understand each other better.

Learning a second language creates the foundations for your child to grow into a beautifully rounded person. It can help to improve their mind, their social skills, their empathy, their perspective and their future prospects. With all those benefits on offer, it's never too early to start!