Why you should encourage your child to learn more languages

By Ishwi Singh  |  First Published Apr 27, 2024, 2:35 PM IST

Encouraging your child to learn more languages will open a world of opportunities. Language learning improves cognitive abilities such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and multitasking.

While the technology has made it easier to communicate with anyone across the globe, the significance of acquiring multiple languages remains paramount. Studies show that people who speak three or more languages are more empathetic and are less likely to develop diseases like Alzheimer's or dementia.

Encouraging children to learn more languages not only opens up a world of opportunities but also offers a range of cognitive, social, and cultural benefits that can enrich their lives in countless ways. Moreover, did you know that a child below the age of five can establish a grasp over five or more languages with ease? Even adults can’t do that.

Let’s learn about top four reasons why language learning in important. 

1. Cognitive Abilities

Language learning improves cognitive abilities such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and multitasking. Studies have found that bilingual and multilingual people often exhibit better attention control, memory retention, and creative thinking skills compared to people who speak only their mother tongue. Simply said, by learning more languages, you boost your memory power.

2. Academic Advantages

Imagine that your child wishes to apply for an international scholarship in the future. They are excited about the prospects that the scholarship would come with; however, they lose to a candidate who speaks more languages than your child. The disappointment would be immense. Proficiency in multiple languages can boost academic performance across various subjects. Learning languages will not only brighten your child’s future, but it will also deepen their understanding of grammar, syntax, and language structure, enhancing their overall linguistic competence.

3. Career Opportunities

In today's globalized economy, fluency in multiple languages is a highly sought-after skill in the workforce. Multilingual people have a competitive edge in diverse fields such as business, diplomacy, tourism, healthcare, and technology, where cross-cultural communication is essential. By encouraging your child to learn more languages at an early age, you will open up exciting career opportunities for them in the future. 

4. Cultural Awareness

Learning new languages provides children with insights into different cultures, traditions, and perspectives from around the world. By immersing themselves in diverse linguistic and cultural environments, children develop empathy, tolerance, and appreciation for cultural diversity. There cannot be a better reason than seeing your child become a beautiful person who embraces cultures. This lifelong learning will always keep your child curious.

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