Biliteracy, the ability to read and write proficiently in two languages, is a skill that can open doors to countless opportunities for young readers. In this post, we explore just a few of the countless benefits that biliteracy in Spanish and English offers to young learners. Some might surprise you!
#1. Cognitive Development
Bilingual children often acquire enhanced cognitive skills, such as better problem-solving and critical thinking. Studies have also shown that learning two languages simultaneously strengthens both memory and multitasking ability!
Did you know?
Children between 0 and 3 are uniquely well-suited to learn a second language with ease. This is due to their brains are in their most flexible stage.1
#2. Better Relationships
Bilingual children can confidently and authentically connect with a broader range of people and cultures. By nurturing strong communication skills in two languages, your little one will enjoy more positive social interactions as they grow.
#3. Academic Achievment
Research indicates that biliterate children tend to perform better academically. In fact, biliteracy has been seen to regularly boost standardized test scores and overall educational achievement.
Did you know?
Students who study foreign languages perform measurably better on standardized test like the ACT and the SAT verbal section.2
#4. Career Advantages
Biliteracy is an increasingly coveted skill in the global job market. Many professions value employees who can communicate with diverse populations.
#5. Family & Heritage Connection
Biliteracy can strengthen family bonds by helping children communicate with extended family members who speak another language, thus preserving and passing down cultural heritage from generation to generation.
Did you know?
Around 1 of 3 children under age 8 in the United States have at least one parent who speaks a language other than English at home.3
#6. Cultural Awareness
Bilingual children are, by nature, more open-minded, interested in, & respectful of different cultures, traditions, and points of view.
#7. Brain Health
Studies suggest that bilingualism may delay the onset of cognitive disorders in old age. Bilingual individuals exhibit better brain health and resilience!
Did you know?
For people who learned a second language before the age of five, brain scans reveal a greater density of grey matter in areas associated with language processing.4
#8. Life Flexibility
Biliterate children are better equipped to adapt to different learning environments. They can study, work, and live in different countries with grace and ease.
#9. Increased Empathy
Bilingual children develop empathy by understanding different perspectives and worldviews. They tend to be more inclusive and compassionate individuals.
#10. Lifelong Curiosity
Why stop at just two languages? Biliteracy instills a curiosity about the world that can last a lifetime!
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By Sol Book Box
The Spanish book club for kids 0-8.
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1. [Advantages of a bilingual brain]↩
2. [Key Points about the Benefits of Foreign Language Learning To Include in Letters to Legislators]↩
3. [Dual Language Learners: A National Demographic and Policy Profile]↩
4. [Bilingual and Monolingual Brains Compared: A Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Investigation of Syntactic Processing and a Possible “Neural Signature” of Bilingualism]↩
