It is never too early to learn languages, especially because when children are young, they soak knowledge up like a sponge. Children learn so many skills in the first four years of their life, including eating, communication, and walking, therefore communicating in another language comes just as naturally. As we get older, we develop more anxiety and greater self-awareness, becoming afraid of trying new things. It is a child’s lack of self-criticism and ability to soak up new knowledge that makes them better at acquiring second languages than adults.
But the first 2,000 days of a child’s life are crucial because what he or she learns during this golden period often sets the foundation for success in school and beyond. Children learn the most in their first 2,000 days than any other six-year period in their life. The bilingual brain shows more flexibility and a higher level of cognitive and executive function because they have to switch back and forth between two languages. Children who learn to speak multiple languages at once sound like a native in both tongues. Furthermore, they learn to talk at the same speed as kids who learn only a single language. At a young age, they can master multiple languages, allowing them to think and talk in each language versus constantly translating back and forth between languages in their heads.
Bilingual children are also more creative in solving problems. Learning a foreign language helps you frame your thoughts through another culture and understand other people better. Swiss International Scientific School in Dubai looks forward to introducing kindergarten students to French, German and Arabic.
Beat Sommer is Head of School at Swiss International Scientific School. Visit www.sisd.ae, call 04-375 0600 or email info@sisd.ae.