Working Mother, June/July 2007
Chances are you’ve seen how speaking another language can open doors in the business world. But did you know the best time for your English-speaking child to start parler français or hablar español is now? “Young children have an amazing ability to learn languages,” says Nancy Rhodes, the director of foreign language education at the nonprofit Center for Applied Linguistics in Washington, DC.

In fact, the younger a child starts, the better. A little one’s brain is highly recep­tive to language acquisition because new brain connections form from hearing and then practicing sounds. This ability diminishes around puberty—when, ironically, most American kids are taught a second language. And contrary to popular belief, a second language won’t confuse children or hamper their ability to master English, says Rhodes.

The key is to make language learning a natural process. For little kids, that means classes that engage them through play rather than instruction. François Thibaut, who runs the New York City–based Language Workshop for Children, teaches through music, art and games—things kids love. “Young children are very malleable, and the words will work their way into their vocabulary as naturally as the English they hear daily,” he explains.

At home, Rhodes suggests games and other play to help your child learn. For example, enjoy a repetitive activity like tossing a ball as you say “throw” and “catch” in the target language. Looking for a caregiver? Seek one who speaks a language of interest so your child will be exposed every day. Kids’ TV shows that include non-English dialogue and language-focused DVDs (such as Thibaut’s programs at www.professortoto.com) can also help her learn at home, especially if you ask questions about the programs so she’ll speak the words.

Along with communicating, there are side benefits to being bilingual. Research shows that children who study a second language are more creative, have better problem-solving skills and often outperform their monolingual peers on tests, says Rhodes. Considering the perks for childhood and adulthood, you may want your preschooler to say bonjour, ni hao or ciao to a language—pronto!

Talk the Talk
To help your child with second-language learning: Hit the books. If you don’t speak the language she’s learning, try to at least master the basics so you can have simple conversations and play games. Reinforce through repetition. Children pick up vocabulary through practice. If your child has a class or watches a program, ask her about it afterward or plan other activities to help her use the words she’s just heard. Add extra culture. Take your preschooler to restaurants, performances and neighborhoods that show her the culture of her second language—and your respect for it.