Why should my child learn a second language so young?
Continued... Researchers have discovered that children who
learn a world language outside of their native tongue have a multitude of cognitive
benefits. On standardized tests in reading, language arts and mathematics,
they outscored those who had not studied a foreign language. SAT scores
were significantly higher in both the verbal and math sections. These scores
also increased in correlation with the increase in the number of years the
foreign language was studied. Children that have studied a foreign language
have enhanced listening skills and memory, greater cognitive development
in areas of creativity, divergent thinking and higher order thinking skills,
and mental flexibility. Moreover, they advance more rapidly in these cognitive
abilities. Children that have studied a foreign language also are more open
to and have a greater appreciation of other cultures. Additionally, these
children have improved self-concept and sense of achievement.
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