Learning a second language at an early age

• Has a positive effect on intellectual growth and enriches and enhances a child’s mental development
• Leaves students with more flexibility in thinking, greater sensitivity to language, and a better ear for listening Improves a child’s understanding of his/her native language
• Gives a child the ability to communicate with people s/he would otherwise not have the chance to know
• Opens the door to other cultures and helps a child understand and appreciate people from other countries
• Gives a student a head start in language requirements for college
• Increases job opportunities in many careers where knowing another language is a real asset.
  

Source: The Center for Applied Linguistics

Language and communication are at the heart of the human experience. The United States must educate students who are equipped linguistically and culturally to communicate success¬fully in a pluralistic American society and abroad. This imperative envisions a future in which ALL students will develop and maintain proficiency in English and at least one other language.

(National Standards in Foreign Language Education Project, 1999, p. 7)