Why Teach Children So Young?
The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages recommends beginning language instruction as early as possible in school.
In other places of the world, it is common for children to begin learning multiple languages at the age of 3! Children are natural language “sponges” and learn easily through repetition and play . . . not analysis. Evidence shows that early exposure to foreign languages helps develop near-native pronunciation, raises test scores in all areas, helps children to develop a global view and cultural understanding, and allows for a longer sequence of study and higher levels of language proficiency.
Parents and educators can take advantage of this amazing ability of children to learn quickly and thoroughly. Learning foreign language at an early age is no less important than learning math, critical thinking, problem solving, or science. These are all skills for their future. In addition, learning a foreign language can help a child to grow developmentally and cognitively. These children grow up to be more-rounded students with the ability to travel and communicate with all people of the world as BILINGUALS.
Take a look at this article published in the NY Times "Why Bilinguals are Smarter"
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/18/opinion/sunday/the-benefits-of-bilingualism.html
In other places of the world, it is common for children to begin learning multiple languages at the age of 3! Children are natural language “sponges” and learn easily through repetition and play . . . not analysis. Evidence shows that early exposure to foreign languages helps develop near-native pronunciation, raises test scores in all areas, helps children to develop a global view and cultural understanding, and allows for a longer sequence of study and higher levels of language proficiency.
Parents and educators can take advantage of this amazing ability of children to learn quickly and thoroughly. Learning foreign language at an early age is no less important than learning math, critical thinking, problem solving, or science. These are all skills for their future. In addition, learning a foreign language can help a child to grow developmentally and cognitively. These children grow up to be more-rounded students with the ability to travel and communicate with all people of the world as BILINGUALS.
Take a look at this article published in the NY Times "Why Bilinguals are Smarter"
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/18/opinion/sunday/the-benefits-of-bilingualism.html