Only about 20% of the American population is bilingual, while more than 50% of Europeans know more than one language.
Bilingualism has proven to be extremely beneficial, especially if children learn from a young age. American children should be taught a second language to enhance their cognitive abilities and set them up for a successful future.
As noted in a 2012 New York Times article, a study conducted by neurophysiologist Tamar Gollan found that individuals with a higher degree of bilingualism “were more resistant than others to the onset of dementia and other symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.”
Learning a second language can have numerous lifelong benefits such as increases in cognitive ability and better academic performance, leading kids to live more successful lives. To help promote bilingualism, schools should create opportunities for elementary students to learn a second language. Parents can also utilize free educational tools such as Duolingo or YouTube to educate themselves as well as their children.
