Learning a second language has proven linguistic and non-linguistic benefits. For example, sophistication and mastery of the first language actually increases when there is knowledge of a second language. Bilinguals also have significant cognitive advantages as demonstrated in scores on tests of analogical reasoning and visual-spatial skills. Bilingualism expands the mind by promoting the acceptance of differences and diversifying one's vision of the world.
Here is a good article about bilingualism from the Canadian Council on Learning:
Three of the most important reasons to start young are:
1. Biologically Ready
The brain is primed to acquire language by the age of 4; research shows that babies are at the peak at ages 6-12 months. Hence, our mission is to implement early second language learning starting in Kindergarten. A child is much more able to acquire language in a more effortless and natural way by focusing on sounds, then syntax, then vocabulary in the language it's bathed in.
2. Cognitive Benefits
Learning a second language has been shown to be beneficial for the brain. Studies show higher math scores, higher verbal scores, higher social studies scores and higher SAT scores for children who study another language. It's even been shown that bilingual adults suffer less dementia than their monolingual counterparts!
3. World Citizens
Around the age of 10, children go through a developmental stage where they accept what is familiar and turn away from what is different. By making other language and culture a part of your child's life from a young age, it is more likely that your teenager will embrace it, too.
Our ideal choice for a second language is Mandarin because we believe it is the world’s most spoken, fastest growing and most important second language for today’s global economy.
If you also believe your children would benefit from Mandarin bilingualism, you’ve come to the right place! Join us in our quest to bring a formal Mandarin bilingual education program to public schools in BC!