Perhaps you’ve marveled at your child’s ability to quickly memorize a poem for school, pick up a new skill, or spout a plethora of obscure facts about their favorite movie. You may have even found yourself thinking, “I could never do that!”.
It’s true, children are at an advantage when it comes to learning. A recent study in Current Biology found that, due to concentrated amounts of a brain messenger known as GABA, “children’s brains respond to training in a way that allows them to more quickly and efficiently stabilize new learning” (Cell Press).
Here at The Academy of Scholars, our teachers have found that one way to take advantage of this reality is to promote bilingualism in children. And, because it is the second most-used language in the world, Spanish has become a popular choice. The benefits of learning Spanish as a second language during formative years are many, and you can be sure that such learning will give your child an advantage in their education and beyond.
Teaching Spanish to Children
Develops Early Language Skills
Children have an incredible ability to quickly pick up new words, often just by hearing them in context and trying them out on their own. They are naturally wired to absorb language like a sponge, eager to communicate with those around them. Research has shown that younger children are particularly adept at pronouncing unfamiliar words, grasping new sounds, and understanding grammar rules. Teaching Spanish is an excellent way to nurture these skills and broaden their linguistic abilities.
Gives a Better Understanding of the English Language
When children learn English as their first language, it usually happens through everyday interactions and listening to those around them. This means that many of the technical aspects and reasoning behind the language’s structure may be overlooked. Learning Spanish in a structured environment, including its grammar rules, allows children to explore the fundamental building blocks of both spoken and written language, including their own.
Provides an Academic Advantage
Studies have shown that acquiring a second language enhances problem-solving, memory, multitasking, and critical thinking abilities. It has also been linked to higher academic performance and is associated with delayed cognitive decline later in life.
Broadens a Child’s Relationships and Interactions
Spanish is the official language in 20 countries and is spoken by nearly 560 million people globally. In the United States, 13% of the population speaks Spanish, and this number is projected to grow to 30% by 2050. These statistics make Spanish an increasingly valuable language, enabling children to better understand, communicate, and form connections with their Spanish-speaking peers. It will also be advantageous if they travel to a Spanish-speaking country. Additionally, speaking someone’s native language demonstrates respect, consideration, and a genuine desire to connect.
Increases Future Chances of Securing Employment
The demand for bilingual individuals in the workforce is rapidly rising, a trend that shows no signs of slowing down. Nine out of ten employers seek to hire bilingual employees, with Spanish being the most sought-after second language. In the future, technical skills alone may not be enough, so giving your child a head start with Spanish can provide a significant advantage.
Makes It Easier to Learn Other Latin-Based Languages
Spanish, being a Latin-based language, shares many rules and similarities with other languages like French, Italian, Romanian, and Portuguese. By building a foundation in Spanish, children will find it easier to learn additional languages. These similarities will also facilitate understanding other languages while traveling, opening up many more opportunities.
Increases a Child’s Cultural Awareness and Appreciation
Children will enjoy immersing themselves in Spanish culture as they deepen their understanding of the language and its speakers. Parents can enhance their child’s appreciation by introducing them to the diverse foods, holidays, and traditions of various Spanish-speaking countries. For an even richer experience, consider planning a family trip to one of these destinations and letting your child take on the role of translator!
Is Practical Due to the Abundance of Learning Material Available
As the most commonly learned second language, Spanish offers a wealth of learning resources. From flashcards to interactive online videos, there’s a treasure trove of tools available to encourage your child’s learning and make it enjoyable.
Teaches Better Communication Skills
Students who learn Spanish as a second language often achieve higher scores in reading, writing, grammar, and even speaking and listening. Learning Spanish helps children develop into better communicators—one of the most crucial skills they can have, both as children and later as adults.
The benefits of learning Spanish early in a child’s education are extensive and impact many areas of their life and future. This is why more parents are choosing to give their children the gift of learning Spanish. One of the most effective ways to help your child become fluent early on is by enrolling them in a school that teaches Spanish. Doing so will give your child the boost they need for a stronger education and a brighter future.