What evidence is there for how learning a second language learning can benefit childrens development (cognitive, social, academic, etc)? 

Research indicates that there is a ‘window of opportunity’ for learning a second language. That is, the capacity to distinguish and make sounds (phonemes) diminishes with age. Older children and adults can still learn a second language, but it tends to take longer. Also those who learn at a later age are less likely to speak like a native (i.e., without an accent; Golinkoff & Hirsch-Pasek, 2000).

Some people worry that starting kids on a second language will interfere with their ability to learn English language skills, however the opposite appears to be true. There is recent research about the dual language approach to learning language being effective, as well as immersion (King & Mackey, 2007).

What evidence is there for how learning a second language learning can benefit childrens development (cognitive, social, academic, etc)?

Responding to this question “counts” as a discussion response.

References
Golinkoff, R. & Hirsh-Pasek, K. (2000). How babies talk: The Magic and Mystery of Language in the First Three Years of Life. New York, New York: Plume.

King, K. & Mackey, A. (2007). The bilingual edge: Why, when and how to teach your child a second language. Collins Living.

What evidence is there for how learning a second language learning can benefit childrens development (cognitive, social, academic, etc)?

Introduction

The benefits of learning a second language can be profound, but they aren’t always easy to see. That’s why it’s critical to understand the research that backs up these claims. In this piece, we’ll look at the evidence behind how children benefit from learning a second language, and what that might mean for your childs development in the classroom or beyond.

Evidence shows that children benefit from learning a second language.

In many ways, learning a second language is like learning another language. The same process that happens when you learn your native one, applies to learning another language.

There are several benefits of learning a second language:

• Cognitive skills – Children who speak more than one language show better cognitive skills in tests that measure how well they can think and reason (e.g., mathematican tests). This is because they are able to use both languages simultaneously when using them for tasks such as solving math problems or reading comprehension passages written in both English and Spanish/French/other foreign languages; meaning they can solve these types of problems faster by being able to understand what the author wrote before responding appropriately!

Children can become more flexible thinkers.

Flexible thinking is important for problem solving, creativity and critical thinking. Learning a second language can help children develop this skill.

In one study, researchers found that children who learned Spanish from birth had better problem solving skills than those who only received English-only instruction. They also had higher scores on tests of creativity and critical thinking than their counterparts who were learning only English (Garcia-Sierra & Callanan-Sanchez).

Children who learn foreign languages are better at reasoning, making decisions and problem-solving.

The cognitive benefits of learning a second language are well-established.

• Children who learn foreign languages are better at reasoning, making decisions and problem-solving. This is because they are more flexible thinkers—able to see connections between different ideas or concepts that might be difficult for others in their native language.
• It also helps them develop their attention span; this can help them focus on tasks over long periods of time (e.g., homework assignments).

Second language learning can aid childrens education.

Second language learning can benefit childrens education. Students who learn a second language are more likely to be better problem-solvers, critical thinkers and creative writers. They also tend to show better social skills as well as cognitive development, including an ability to think abstractly (which helps them learn math), and the ability to reason analytically (which helps them understand science).

The benefits of second language learning on academic achievement have been found in both preschoolers and school-aged children. In one study from Florida State University published in 2008 (the first ever conducted on this topic), researchers looked at how Spanish speakers performed on standardized tests compared with English speakers when it came to reading comprehension; math skills; writing abilities; creative thinking abilities; number sense; spatial reasoning ability – all measured through various assessments such as those given by The National Institutes Of Health Common Core Standards For All Children In School Age Programs (2016)

The benefits of learning a second language outweigh any potential risks associated with it.

The benefits of learning a second language outweigh any potential risks associated with it. Benefits include improved cognitive and social development, as well as academic performance. Studies have shown that children who learn a second language are better at reasoning, making decisions and problem-solving than those who don’t.

Conclusion

The benefits of learning a second language transcends cultural barriers, and can benefit all children. Learning a second language is a great way to improve your childs cognitive development, social skills and academic performance. The research shows that there are many ways in which children can benefit from learning another language, including helping them make sense of the world around them and giving them the ability to communicate with others more effectively.