There are many benefits to bilingualism! In the past, misconceptions about language development and learning led many educators to endorse English-only approaches for children. However, encouraging students to use both their languages will help them thrive, according to the Department of Education. Most importantly, the emotional well-being that comes from strong ties to one’s culture and identity are fostered through language. It Is also a wonderful skill to have in an increasingly diverse world. There are cognitive gains, too; bilingual people tend to have an easier time with tasks like logic, solving math problems, focus, and abstract thought.
According to Viorica Marian and Anthony Shook from the Dana Foundation, bilingualism has positive effects across the lifespan. Their executive function skills tend to be stronger, and their brain’s structures and processing often allow for more efficient learning. The neurological benefits of being bilingual can even protect individuals from age-related memory decline.
Receiving support from their schools can make all the difference for bilingual families and children, and with research highlighting the many positive aspects of being multilingual there is every reason to encourage linguistic diversity.
