The Positive Effects of Teaching Children a Second Language

As a parent, you want what is best for your child. You do everything in your power to set them up for success and ensure they are prepared for whatever they may face in childhood and beyond. When it comes to their education, it can be challenging to know what classes and subjects are necessary and beneficial for them and their future. One thing that has been proven to have multiple positive effects on children is teaching them a second language. Let’s take a look at how language development in early childhood education plays a part in your child’s life. 

Problem-Solving & Critical-Thinking Skills

When a child is taught a second language from an early age, they develop strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. The part of the brain that is engaged in language development is also the same part that analyzes problems and determines solutions. By encouraging your child to learn an additional language, you are also encouraging them to grow their ability to think outside the box and resolve any issues they may run into. 

Improves Listening & Communication

Another benefit of teaching your child a second language is that it improves their listening and communication skills. Not only will your child learn to listen in an engaged and active manner while someone is speaking in another language, but they will also utilize those skills in their first language as well. In addition, they will communicate more effectively no matter what language they are speaking. 

Boosts Memory & Concentration

Learning an additional language at an early age essentially exercises the part of the brain that deals with memory and concentration. As a result, children who speak two or more languages typically have an easier time remembering things, both academic and otherwise. They also possess the ability to concentrate on tasks and lessons for longer periods of time. 

More Creativity & Confidence

Children who learn multiple languages in their early years of education also tend to be more creative and confident. Since children are more adept at learning languages than adults, their faith in their own abilities can easily be stoked by allowing them the opportunity to learn as much as possible early on. 

Better Academic Performance

Finally, another benefit of teaching your child a second language is that bilingual children tend to perform better academically and score higher on standardized tests. While language development may not be directly linked to subjects such as science or math, the skills that are honed by learning a second language allow children to learn other subjects more effectively. 

TLC Schools and Language Development

After reading all the benefits, do you want your child to learn a second language? TLC Schools offers language development programs for Spanish and sign language! Our immersive, hands-on early childhood education environment is fun, positive, and effective! Why is hands-on learning so effective? Click to read our recent blog! Want to enroll your child? Get in touch with our staff to learn more about TLC Schools and schedule a tour today!