Did you know that bilingualism was considered one of the main causes of slow language development back in the past? That’s right, and it’s because a lot of parents thought that their children are experiencing a language delay if they’re learning two different languages at the same time. Another myth about bilingualism claimed that bilinguals have double or split personalities. Even though their attitude is often based on different people and situations, we certainly can’t define that as having double or split personalities. After all, these are just myths that didn’t prove to be true, as there are numerous benefits that were predominant in the end. All you need to do is to keep on reading and you’ll learn everything you need to know about the benefits of bilingual and multilingual environments for children’s academic success. Check them out!

 

What are the benefits of a bilingual and multilingual environment?

The benefits of a bilingual and multilingual environment are numerous, and we can freely say that these can give children social, cognitive, and linguistic advantages over their peers. Besides that, it’s also safe to say that bilingualism can be seen as a kind of brain insurance that keeps your mind sharp, no matter your age. Research has shown that older bilinguals often perform as well as younger monolinguals, which just proves that the advantages of bilingualism last well into old age. Here are some of the most common benefits of a bilingual and multilingual environment:

It has fantastic cognitive benefits

In case you didn’t know, cognitive functions are linked to the way your brain functions – or the mechanisms that allow your brain to acquire information, to be more precise. First of all, bilinguals or multilinguals are highly likely to be more successful in their academic career because they are able to focus on a task while successfully tuning out any disruptions, unlike their monolingual peers. It also affects their ability to concentrate, which is crucial in the school environment. When in combination with early childhood education programs, kids can get prepared for future academic successes more efficiently, which is the benefit that mustn’t be overlooked.

It has important academic benefits

Speaking more than one language and spending time in a bilingual or multilingual environment can be extremely useful for kids in terms of entering their favourite university. Passing language tests is obligatory when entering the majority of good universities, which is exactly why children should be introduced to other languages apart from their mother tongue from an early age. Apart from that, speaking multiple languages is closely intertwined with vocabulary development as well. This means that bilingual or monolingual kids are highly likely to express themselves with more success, especially when compared with their monolingual counterparts. Needless to say, mastering different languages can only be a huge advantage for the kids in the future, so bear that in mind, too.

It has amazing social-emotional benefits

When it comes to social-emotional benefits of bilingualism and multilingualism, these are completely unmatched. First of all, children who speak more than one language have always been able to make new friends very fast, without fear, which is a quite useful skill that can help them network and position themselves high up in the global world later on. Besides that, it’s also important to know that learning a new language is much more than just learning how to read, write, and speak in that language. The primary focus is on learning about a new culture through language, which allows children to understand the world around them and make friends from other cultural groups. Bilingualism and multilingualism also nurture a positive attitude and respect towards other cultures, which can be essential for kids’ future academic success.

 What are the benefits of an Australian-Indonesian relation?

The relationship between young Australians and Indonesians has always been very strong, and the truth is that it allows for cultural, educational, and professional growth everyone should strive for. If you wonder why Australians should learn Indonesian in school and vice versa, some of the best reasons are better communication skills, improved academic success, and greater chances of getting a job in the future. Besides that, geographical proximity is one of those reasons, too, as the two countries are only 120 km apart and have strong business connections. Knowing the language of a neighbouring country is always a good way to go, so don’t wait any longer and familiarize your kids with it while they’re still young. It’ll undoubtedly open many doors for them in the near future.

 

As you can tell, the benefits of a bilingual and multilingual environment for kids’ future academic success are numerous. Even though there were many myths which promoted the negative effects of bilingualism, it sure proved to be much more than just a nuisance. In fact, it has so many advantages that play a huge role in children’s lives, education, and career prospects, so bear them in mind and you’ll do the right thing for your little ones!