Languages are a gateway to different cultures!
Today, many kids spend their spare time learning new skills. What if your kid is one of these people? Why don’t you encourage them to learn a second language?
As the world becomes more multilingual, global connections become more vital. Therefore, learning a second language is always a good idea in everyone’s life. In addition, you can gain a lot from learning a second language, especially the cognitive ones. So, it’s never too late to master a new language.
But, before you begin studying another language, it’s good to know its benefits. I guess that’s the reason why you’re with me today. Is that right?
Yes, this blog is for you. In this blog, we’ve compiled a list of the cognitive benefits kids can gain from mastering a second language. Make sure you read the blog thoroughly, know the benefits, and learn a new language to achieve them.
Can we move in further?
Cognitive Benefits of Learning a Second Language
1. Enhance Memory
Learning a second language always forces our brain to use areas that are generally not engaged. In other words, a human brain is similar to a tech device: the more you use it, the more flexible and efficient it becomes.
Furthermore, switching between languages enhances memory power. Due to this, many children who speak two languages have better memorization skills and brain development than the others.
2. Improves Brain Power
Despite its small size, the human brain has a lot of power. Adaptability is one of its most vital traits. Thus, learning a new language helps you focus on understanding meanings, communicating, and developing skills. As a result of this process, skills such as concentration, critical thinking, improved listening, multitasking, problem-solving, and decision-making will be improved.
3. Multitasking
Several studies have demonstrated that learning a second language has immense cognitive benefits. Multitasking is one of the benefits.
Multitasking may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but children who learn a second language can do it. How?
People who can speak two languages easily switch between them. Due to this, they are more adept at multitasking. It is therefore advisable to let kids learn a second language in order to enhance their multitasking skills.
4. Improves IQ
As we mentioned earlier, learning a second language improves good brain power and memory in humans. Guess what? It is directly linked to our IQ level.
Several studies and research have indicated that bilingual and multilingual people have more grey matter in the brain than monolinguals.
A grey matter layer is nothing more than the brain’s outer layer. It processes data and enables us to control emotions, movements, and memory.
Multilingual individuals have a greater density of grey matter. This is why bilingual and multilingual people have higher IQ levels than monolingual people.
5. Improves Concentration skill
Ellen Bialystok, a Canadian psychologist and professor conducted a concentration control experiment in 2003. A total of 60 preschoolers were selected for this study, of which 30 were monolinguals, and 30 were bilinguals.
Researchers found that bilingual children were significantly better at controlling their attention than monolingual children.
This is because people who speak more than one language should switch between them. Therefore, the process of switching between languages requires more focus than monolinguistic. As a result, it enhances and strengthens bilingual and multilingual students’ ability to concentrate.
6. Enhance Creative
In our day-to-day lives, we all face many challenges. To deal with them, we need creativity. In what ways can we gain it? Become bilingual.
One of the most significant cognitive benefits of learning a second language is creativity. This is because the brains of bilinguals are constantly being mentally juggled.
Furthermore, second language learners can perceive things from different perspectives. That is, learning something new will always open the doors of our minds to delight in it. Therefore, mental exercises like this are more beneficial to the cognitive abilities of people who learn a second language.
7. Boost Self-confidence
The process of learning a new language is not an easy one. Also, leaving our comfort zone is quite tricky for everyone. Some people may be nervous about learning a new language, while others hesitate. But, people who are determined to reach their destination will automatically boost their self-confidence to regain their faith and abilities in learning languages.
Moreover, multilingual people can communicate with confidence even in crowds. So, don’t worry if you’re nervous or hesitant when learning a new language.
8. Strengthens Decision-Making skill
Research has shown that people who speak more than one language are more rational than monolinguals. It is because bilinguals and multilinguals have contrary assumptions. It allows them to distance themselves from their emotions and biases associated with their native tongue. Thus, they can make fact-based decisions with a clear head and be systematic.
9. Sharper Mind
Studies and journals have found that learning a second language sharpens your mind.
As I mentioned earlier, learning a new language always opens your mind to new possibilities. As a result, you become more aware of your surroundings and can distinguish good from the bad.
10. Reduces the chances of Dementia and Alzheimer
Studies have found that bilinguals and multilinguals are less likely to develop dementia and Alzheimer’s than monolinguals. According to the study, people with a second language show their first signs at the age of 75. In contrast, people with only one language skill show their first signs at 71 years old.
Bottom lines
Learning a second language has enormous benefits. This blog contains a few benefits of learning a second language for your knowledge.
Remember – Children who learn a new language at an early age will be more able to enhance their abilities than adults.
Would you like to learn something new? Are you looking for ways to make your child’s spare time productive? Then learning a second language would be a wise choice for you. Although learning a native language is easy, learning a second language will enable you to advance in your career.
Waiting for what? You can boost your intelligence and cognitive abilities by learning a second language. All you need to do is, sign up at Nurtem and begin learning your language from our certified tutors.
Best wishes!
