04/11/2017
What does it mean to be bilingual?
According to Merriam-Webster on-line dictionary, bilingualism
is the abilty to speak two languages. However, be bilingual is
more than just speak two languages. It is the art of being able to speak, read, write and understand more than one language.
Be bilingual is a gift to anybody, specially when you
become bilingual an a early age, thanks to a smart choice from
your parents.
According to many researches and the book “7 Steps to Raising a
Bilingual Child”, a newborn baby’s brain is created in a way
that can learn any language and stimulation is the key. If you expose your child to different languages since they are very little, they will master any language; as long as, you keep them actively
engaged in those languages. A different part of the brain works when you learned a second language later in life. That’s why when you learn a second language as an adult, it will require more effort from you to become fluent . Therefore, the earlier your child start learning a second language the better.
Becoming bilingual is an advantage at any age and some of the advantages are:
Your brain needs to work more and harder; therefore, your brain will keep in good shape like any muscle when it gets exercised.
It helps with creativity and problem solving.
Develop analytical and abstract thinking.
Become better at memorizing things.
Better understanding of the world around you.
It makes you happier because you can help more people.