ADVANTAGES OF LEARNING MULTIPLE LANGUAGES, INCLUDING MOTHER TONGUE AT SCHOOL – BENEFITS THAT SCIENCE & RESEARCH REVEAL
Introduction:
In the bustling city of Gurugram, where diversity and multiculturalism thrive, it’s not uncommon to hear children conversing in multiple languages. With globalization and increasing cultural exchange, parents in Gurugram are increasingly recognizing the importance of raising multi-lingual kids. However, some wonder if exposing their children to multiple languages, including their mother tongue at school, is beneficial in a global world.
Well, science and research have some compelling answers.
COGNITIVE ADVANTAGES:
Studies have shown that children who are exposed to multiple languages from an early age exhibit enhanced cognitive abilities. Learning and using multiple languages stimulate various parts of the brain, resulting in improved problem-solving skills, better memory retention, and heightened creativity. These cognitive advantages can provide a solid foundation for success in both academic and non-academic areas.
IMPROVED LANGUAGE SKILLS:
One of the most apparent benefits of raising multi-lingual kids is their proficiency in multiple languages. Children who learn more than one language are often better at mastering new languages later in life. This skill can open doors to future opportunities, as multilingualism & multiculturalism is increasingly valued in the global job market or for success in any MNC /business.
ENHANCED CULTURAL AWARENESS:
Learning multiple languages exposes children to different cultures and perspectives. This early exposure fosters a greater understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity. It helps children develop empathy, tolerance, and open-mindedness, which are crucial qualities in today’s interconnected world.
STRONGER EMOTIONAL BOND:
Encouraging your child to learn their mother tongue too at school can strengthen the emotional bond between them and their heritage. Language is a significant part of one’s identity, and preserving the mother tongue can instill a sense of pride and connection to their roots.
IMPROVED ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE:
Research suggests that children who are fluent in their mother tongue tend to perform better in school. A solid foundation in the mother tongue helps children grasp complex concepts more easily and excel in various subjects. It also boosts their confidence, which is vital for academic success. So mother tongue is “as” important if not more than learning an international language like English or any another international language. And learning more than one language is not just ok, its better for our children – as research and science around the world is
LONG-TERM COGNITIVE BENEFITS:
Bilingual or multilingual individuals have been found to have a reduced risk of cognitive decline as they age. Studies suggest that learning and using multiple languages throughout one’s life can delay the onset of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Global research & NEP endorses multiple languages and mother tongue
All research confirms the importance of learning at least two languages. India’s path breaking education reform – the new education policy also emphases learning at least two languages – with 1 Indian language and 1 international language at least.
CONCLUSION:
As parents in Gurugram, you have a unique opportunity to nurture the linguistic and cognitive development of your children by encouraging them to learn multiple languages, including their mother tongue at school.
The advantages supported by science and research are substantial – from enhanced cognitive skills and language proficiency to improved cultural awareness and emotional connections. By providing your children with a multilingual environment, you are giving them a valuable gift that will benefit them throughout their lives. Embrace the beauty of linguistic diversity, and watch your children thrive as they become brighter, more capable future ready individuals.
Here’s an interesting topical quote on the subject:
IN CONCLUSION, LANGUAGES ARE CRTICAL TOOLS FOR OUR CHILDREN TO GARNERING KNOWLEDGE & CAPABILITIES. ONE LANGUAGE (SAY LEARNING ENGLISH OR HINDI) IS “NEVER” GOOD ENOUGH. LEARNING MORE THAN 1 LANGUAGE REALLY HELPS OUR CHILDREN. WE NEED TO MAKE SURE MOTHER TONGUE OR A COMMONLY SPOKEN/READ LANGUAGE LIKE HINDI OR ANOTHER LANGUAGE LIKE ENGLISH IS INCLUDED IN THE LEARNING LANGUAGES MIX, TO HELP OUR KIDS DEVELOP THE FOUNDATIONAL, COGNITIVE AND DEVELOPMENTAL SKILLS NEEDED TO MAKE THEM FUTURE READY.
WE CAN RAISE WELL-ROUNDED FUTURE READY INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE PREPARED TO FACE THE CHALLENGES OF THE WORLD WITH CONFIDENCE AND INTEGRITY – WITH THE RIGHT METHODS AND PRACTICES. A GOOD UNDERSTANDING AND PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN PARENTS AND SCHOOLS IS THE KEY TO NURTURING THE FUTURE LEADERS OF GURUGRAM, OUR GREAT NATION AND OUR PLANET.
THE SIXTH ELEMENT SCHOOL WE BELIEVE IN THE IMPORTANCE OF CATALYSING & ENSURING “THE SIXTH ELEMENT -i.e. THE JOY OF LEARNING ” FOR EVERY CHILD. OUR CURRICULAM IS BENCHMARKED WITH THE BEST INTERNATIONALLY, WHILE DRAWING FROM OUR VERY OWN CORE ANCIENT INDIAN BEST PRACTICES9SUCH AS THE GURU SHISHYA PARAMPARA) & VALUES. THANKS TO ITS 18+ YEARS EXPERIENCE AND ITS CORE CHILD DEVELOPMENT PRACTICES DRAWN FROM PIAGET, VYGOSTKY AND BRUNER – WHICH IS INCIDENTALLY THE RESOURCE POOL – FOR THE FOUNDATIONAL YEARS SCHOOL CURRICULUM OF THE UPGRADED NEW EDUCATION (NEP) UNDER ROLL OUT IN INDIA NOW.
WE ARE ALSO IN THE PROCESS OF GETTING CAMBRIDGE CURRICULAM CERTIFICATION TO ENABLE OUR CHILDREN TO EVOLVE GLOBALLY AS WELL AS DO WELL IN INDIA
the Sixth Element School
the school children love
SOUTH CITY 1. TATA PRIMANTI (sector 72)
85272-74695 or 97736-32626
since 2004 18+years)
limited enrolment available in pre-NURSERY, NURSERY, KG & DAYCARE, grade 1 in 2023
@ Gurgaon’s only single section “exclusive” boutique VENTILATED, AIRY, SPACIOUS. GREEN SCHOOL CAMPUSES