“My daughter has responded so well to their play-based program and speaks Spanish at home constantly.”
Benefits
There are so many benefits from learning a foreign language early; it’s hard to know where to start!
Unless your family is bilingual or bicultural, you might not have considered exposing your little ones to a foreign language before they've mastered the basics of English, but consider this: Many experts believe that introducing children to a second language as early as possible fosters healthy brain development, encourages positive social skills, and lays a solid foundation for effective communication skills that will last a lifetime.
Whether you want your child to learn your family’s heritage language, pick up a second language, or learn to be a little global citizen, the benefits of dual language education are boundless.
Read below to learn what second language research tells us are “Yak Facts” or Fiction:
| Statement | Yak Fact | Fiction | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| Learning a second language improves overall academic performance |  |
Students of foreign language show more advanced problem solving skills and a clearer understanding of English structure and vocabulary. They also score higher on standardized tests, including both verbal and math portions of the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). | |
| Learning a second language will interfere with children's ability to master their primary language |  |
Actually research shows that learning a second language enhances a child's awareness of their primary one. The similarities and differences between the languages help them understand the sounds, the words, and the rules for putting sentences together. | |
| Play is important and play-based education can foster a love for learning | |
“Play is not a luxury, but rather a crucial dynamic of healthy, physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development at all ages.” - David Elkind, child development expert, Tufts University |
|
| Learning a second language increases exposure to new cultures and different backgrounds | |
It’s true. . .foreign language is more than just language—it opens up a child’s world to new cultures, people, places, food, and other amazing discoveries. | |
| I can wait until 1st (2nd, 3rd...) grade to teach my child another language. | |
The window of opportunity is greatest from birth to age 6. The earlier your child is exposed to another language, the easier it is for them to acquire it! | |
| Learning a second language aids in building self-esteem | |
Boosting language skills also boosts confidence and self-esteem. Children who have the ability to switch naturally between languages feel good about themselves and their communication skills. | |
| Learning a second language early promotes flexibility in thinking and overall creativity | |
Children who receive dual language instruction are more creative and better at solving complex problems |
Read on to learn more about Why World Language: