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8 benefits of learning English at an early age

Did you ever wonder about the benefits of learning English at an early age? If you’re a parent, perhaps you’re pondering, “Should my child start learning English now or later?”

In today’s blog post, we’re going to unravel the mysteries of early language learning and highlight the numerous benefits that accompany learning English at an early age. Backed by scientific studies and expert opinions, we aim to help you understand the hidden treasures of starting the English learning journey during childhood.

But before we proceed, let’s get one thing clear. If you or your child didn’t start early, it’s not a catastrophe! However, understanding the benefits of early learning might just spark your interest or encourage you to introduce English to the little ones around you sooner rather than later.

So, fasten your seatbelts and let’s discover the benefits of learning English at an early age!

1. Ease of learning

What comes to mind when you imagine a child’s mind? A blank canvas, perhaps? An empty vessel eager to be filled? Maybe a sponge ready to soak up knowledge? Quite fitting analogies, aren’t they?

Now, here’s an interesting fact. Younger children actually have an easier time learning languages compared to older learners. Imagine their minds as a super absorbent sponge that can effortlessly soak up new sounds, structures, and rules of a language. The ability of a child’s brain to adapt and learn is often referred to as ‘plasticity’. It’s a fascinating process, right?

At this stage, children can achieve fluency and sound more like native speakers without much strain. You might wonder, “How is that possible?”

Dr. Patricia Kuhl, a renowned neuroscientist and co-director of the Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences at the University of Washington, explains that younger brains are particularly wired to learn languages. According to her research, kids learn by observing, listening, and mimicking the sounds and words they hear around them.

In one of her studies, she noticed that even babies as young as six months old could discern sounds of different languages. They were essentially like “citizens of the world”, open to a plethora of linguistic possibilities. As they grow older and are exposed more to their native language, they start specializing in it, while their ability to recognize and produce foreign sounds gradually diminishes.

However, if a second language like English is introduced early, they can retain this innate ability for a longer period, achieving more native-like fluency and pronunciation.

2. Cognitive benefits

Did you know that learning English or any second language at an early age doesn’t just equip your child with an extra set of vocabulary and different sentence structures? It’s actually like giving their brain a thorough workout that goes beyond the language gym. That’s right! We’re talking about cognitive benefits!

Cognitive abilities refer to brain-based skills that we need to carry out any task from the simplest to the most complex. These include aspects such as memory, attention, and problem-solving. Now, imagine your child having a turbo-boost in these skills. Sounds remarkable, doesn’t it?

Research has shown that bilingualism or multilingualism can act as that turbo-boost. It has been observed that children who learn a second language often outshine their monolingual peers in problem-solving, multitasking, memory, and concentration.

For example, a study published in the journal Cognition found that multilingual children were better at complex problem-solving tasks than monolingual children. The researchers, Dr. Julia Morales of Granada University and her colleagues, suggested that managing two languages helps children to develop enhanced mental flexibility and cognitive control.

Similarly, a study led by Dr. Ellen Bialystok at York University in Canada found that bilingualism enhances attention and working memory – both essential skills for learning.

These cognitive benefits stretch beyond school years and can even provide a defense against cognitive decline in old age, according to research from the University of Edinburgh.

So, by introducing your child to English at an early age, you’re not just giving them a language; you’re providing them a cognitive enhancement package that can benefit them throughout their lives. It’s like investing in their future cognitive health! Isn’t that something worth considering?

3. Cultural awareness

When children take up a new language, it’s as though they have been handed a VIP pass, a magic carpet ride into a whole new world of diverse cultures and traditions. And guess what, they aren’t just observers from the sideline; they’re active participants in this cultural tapestry.

Researchers have found that this immersive experience fosters a more profound understanding of, and respect for, different cultures. They learn that the world is a colorful mosaic of people who may have different customs, traditions, and values, yet they are all interconnected in the grand scheme of life.

This exposure to cultural diversity at a young age cultivates a sense of empathy and global-mindedness, turning our children into compassionate citizens of the world.

For instance, a study published in the journal “Language Learning” by researchers at the University of Maryland showed that children who learned a second language were more likely to show positive attitudes towards the culture associated with that language.

Moreover, a research paper by Dr. Ingrid Piller at Macquarie University, Australia, emphasized that language learning, even at a very early age, encourages children to be more open-minded and receptive to cultural diversity.

This is an invaluable asset in today’s interconnected and globalized world. By learning English or any second language early, children get a head start in understanding, respecting, and valuing diversity!

4. Academic advantages

In the vast expanse of academic fields, be it science, technology, mathematics, or humanities, English serves as a universal language. Just take a glance at the statistics: A study conducted by the University of Oxford revealed that a staggering 98% of academic publications in the sciences are written in English. This phenomenon isn’t limited to sciences; it spreads across various academic disciplines.

What does this mean for a child beginning to learn English?

Well, the answer lies in the accessibility to a treasure trove of knowledge. Dr. Tatsuya Amano at the University of Cambridge points out the indispensable role of English in accessing scientific research. His studies highlight that non-Anglophone researchers face substantial difficulties in accessing scientific data, a barrier that can be overcome with proficiency in English.

Now, imagine equipping your children with the tools to learn English from their formative years. It’s akin to handing them a golden ticket, a ticket to explore academic resources, research findings, technological innovations, and literary works, many of which are primarily accessible in English.

Your child is not merely learning a language; they are gaining an asset, an edge, an academic advantage that paves the way for them to excel in their studies and future careers!

5. Career opportunities

Have you ever wondered why job advertisements often have a familiar line: “Proficiency in English required?” It’s a question that puzzles many, especially those embarking on a new career journey. But the connection between English and career opportunities isn’t just a modern trend; it’s a strategic key to unlock an ocean of possibilities.

Think of English as the meeting point of the world’s business, technology, healthcare, and entertainment sectors. It’s not just a language; it’s a common thread weaving through diverse career landscapes across the globe.

According to a study by the British Council, English skills add an estimated $3 trillion to the global economy. This isn’t merely a number; it’s a reflection of how businesses, multinational corporations, and even small startups operate in a world that communicates primarily in English.

But what does this mean for our children, or perhaps even for adults seeking new career paths?

The answer is both simple and profound: Proficiency in English isn’t just a skill; it’s a career asset.

Imagine the possibilities. Your child, fluent in English, can explore international opportunities, connect with professionals worldwide, and even spearhead initiatives that reach beyond local boundaries. The doors to sectors like finance, technology, healthcare, and diplomacy swing open with the key of English proficiency.

Renowned linguist David Crystal emphasizes that English is the leading language in international business, with over two-thirds of the world’s scientists reading in English. Now, consider the implications for careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The ability to comprehend, collaborate, and contribute in English creates an unparalleled advantage.

Furthermore, English transcends geographical barriers, making remote work and international collaboration not just feasible but efficient. As we’ve seen in recent times, the global shift towards remote work has further cemented the importance of English as the lingua franca of virtual collaboration.

6. Communication

Communication is undeniably at the heart of human connection. In today’s globalized world, the importance of understanding and being understood is more significant than ever. And this is where the English language plays a pivotal role. As a language that spans continents and cultures, English opens doors to social, professional, and personal interactions that might otherwise remain closed.

English isn’t merely a language; it’s a connector, a facilitator, and a global passport. From face-to-face conversations to digital interactions, from professional collaborations to academic pursuits, English serves as a unifying thread that binds our diverse world. It stands as a steadfast ally, ready to make the journey with you, empowering communication, enriching experiences, and unlocking extraordinary opportunities!

7. Enhanced learning in other areas

The process of learning English at an early age does more than just equip children with a new language; it can also enhance their abilities in other academic areas like reading, writing, and mathematics.

Bilingual children have been found to outperform their monolingual peers in various cognitive tasks. A study from the University of Washington’s Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences demonstrates this advantage, highlighting improved multi-tasking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

Dr. Ellen Bialystok, a prominent researcher in cognitive neuroscience, further supports this idea, revealing that bilingualism can lead to better concentration and adaptability in children. These skills extend beyond language learning, influencing their overall academic performance.

By introducing English early, we not only enrich children’s linguistic abilities but also provide them with valuable tools that can enhance their learning in various other subjects. The ripple effect of this early language acquisition is broad, laying a strong foundation for educational success and lifelong learning.

8. Boost confidence

Confidence building is an essential aspect of personal development, especially during childhood.

What might come as a surprise to many parents and educators is the link between learning a new language, such as English, and a boost in a child’s self-confidence and esteem. Accomplishing the task of communicating in a second language is more than just a linguistic milestone; it’s a personal triumph that can instill a profound sense of pride in children!

According to a study conducted by Dr. Jean-Marc Dewaele from Birkbeck, University of London, multilingualism and confidence go hand in hand. The study reveals that children who have the ability to speak more than one language often show higher levels of self-esteem and better social skills. Similarly, the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages has identified a positive correlation between early language learning and children’s self-confidence.

What’s truly inspiring is that this boost in confidence doesn’t remain confined to language skills. It spreads, enhancing the child’s belief in their abilities across various domains. It lays the groundwork for a resilient and self-assured individual ready to face the challenges of a globalized world!

Summary

In our rapidly globalizing world, the early acquisition of English offers children far more than just another language. From the cognitive and academic benefits to fostering cultural sensitivity and boosting self-esteem, the advantages are multifold and lasting. As parents, educators, and caregivers, the choice to introduce a child to English early on becomes less of a luxury and more of a strategic investment—one that promises rich returns not only in their formative years but throughout their lives!

At IELC, we teach English the right way

Our goal is to get you speaking in English with fluency and confidence as fast as possible. We want to give you the skills you need to fulfil your potential!

Our experienced teachers will guide you along every step of the learning process to ensure that you are not wasting your time, money, and energy on useless language exercises & wrong methods.