The child as a learner

Isela Shipton, Alan S. Mackenzie and James Shipton, British Council

This is the first in a two part article which explores how young children learn languages and what we as teachers can do to help them and their parents to make this process more enjoyable and positive.
• When to start language learning
• What stops children from learning
• How children learn languages
• Getting parents involved
• Get to know how your children learn
When to start language learning
Most experts believe that when a child is introduced to a second language at an early age their chances of becoming more proficient in the target language will be higher. However, it is not necessarily true to say "the earlier the better". It is suggested that the most efficient time to learn another language is between 6 and 13.
However, children who learn in pre-to-early teens often catch up very quickly with children who learn from an earlier age. Also this does not mean that languages cannot be learnt later in life. The experience and environment at school and how language is taught and practiced play a vital role in language acquisition, regardless of how young or old the child is.
Whatever the age, when children learn a second language they develop skills that will help to create opportunities in their future. They acquire the lifelong ability to communicate with others under diverse circumstances. Indeed, regardless of the level of proficiency, learning a second language and learning about different cultures generally broadens a child's outlook on life. It also opens up alternative educational and career opportunities