Giving Your Child a Bigger, Brighter World
At the very center of interaction and communication, language is the bridge that connects us or the gap that may divide us.
Traditionally, the majority of bilingual British children learnt a second language by growing up in a bilingual household. Today, however, more and more monolingual mums and dads - those of us who speak only English - are realising the tremendous advantages that come from learning a foreign language early in life.
They understand that the languages their children speak will inform and enrich much or what follows in life: identity, friendships, professional pursuits and world travel.
Recent research led by an esteemed American psychologist suggests that children may also develop social prejudices, based on preferences for people who share their native language. This suggests that bilingual kids, by contrast, may actually be developing a greater degree of tolerance.
Whether your hope is to better enable your child to make friendships worldwide, to open the door for your child to more fully appreciate the arts and world literature, or even to cultivate a future ambassador, the most important benefit of learning a second language may simply be the new perspective and cultural awareness that comes with it. Read more.
Sincerely,
Katie Lagana
Early Advantage |