One of the most rewarding aspects of the human experience is our ability to connect with others. Being able to communicate with someone in his or her language is an incredible gift.

Why would we want young children to learn a second language while they are focused on learning their primary one? It seems like this would be learning overload at a time when they are also learning how to be friends, count, play in the playground and so much more. However, this is a time in our lives when acquiring a second language comes very naturally.

As adults, we have to consider grammar rules and practice, but young children absorb sounds, structures, intonation patterns and the rules of a second language very easily.

Here I are just a few of the many positive side effects of learning a foreign language:

Learning a language exercise your brain

How many times have you heard that phrase? It is a simple fact – the more the brain is used, the better its functions work. A new language requires not only familiarity with vocabulary and rules, but also being able to recall and apply this knowledge.

Working with new words and grammar rules gets multiple areas of the brain working together.

Learning a language will teach you a lot “About How To Learn”

People who speak more than one language have improved memory, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, enhanced concentration, ability to multitask, and better listening skills.

After learning one, it’s much easier to learn another one!

As you begin to learn a second language, you’ll find that the acquisition techniques you’re using can be applied to learning additional languages as well.  After learning one language, you retain the muscle memory. Your brain will intrinsically understand how to learn a language and how different languages are structured and you’re increasing your ability to replicate the process with multiple languages.

Just like exercising your body, providing your brain with a regular workout has great health benefits. Many studies have shown a link between being bilingual and delaying dementia by an average of four years. The reason for the delay is that learning a language challenges our grey cells, which help them from degenerating.

Your brain thrives on learning things that are new and complex, learning a second language will slow brain ageing – you will stay smarter for longer!

So, are you up for a brain workout?