Why speak a new language?

Children learning a new language

In our rapidly changing world it is becoming increasingly unacceptable to rely on English as a universal language. As commerce has broadened internationally, a second or even third language has become essential to both business people and politicians. Indeed, as China is Australia’s largest trading partner, the Prime Minister of Australia has even gone to the lengths of mastering Mandarin.

Fortunately, it is far easier for a child to absorb a new language and a recommendation that any child should do so can only be advantageous, particularly for that child’s future. How often are we astounded by the language skills of foreign sportsmen and women, particularly of those such as car and motorcycle racers whose sport constantly crosses international boundaries.

Moreover, children who have accepted the task of learning a new language do better in other areas of education. In addition to improved English and Mathematics they demonstrate greater mental flexibility, enhanced reasoning and problem-solving ability.

Bilingual children gain self-confidence and self-esteem and are envied by those of their peers who do not adopt the early opportunity to broaden language skill.

Adults learning a new language

O.K., so, like most of us you didn’t have the advantage of a European education where English as a second language is the norm. You are beyond your schooldays now but for years to come will be soaking up all that is involved in life and a career. What better time to take on board the learning of an appropriate new language?

From a practical point of view, those who have mastered a foreign language enjoy broader professional opportunities, happier working lives and greater financial rewards. Greater self-confidence and self-esteem are more pronounced than in children and, even if not immediately appropriate to one’s working life, the respect from friends, relatives, colleagues and employers is itself rewarding.

How marvellous to dine in a continental restaurant and to be able to converse with restaurant staff in their mother tongue. You may find that your holiday destinations gravitate to one favoured area such as Spain or the Greek Isles and the advantage of having a reasonable grasp of the local language is immeasurable.

Language learning is fresh, exciting and rewarding, possibly the greatest opportunity for self-improvement.

Those in later career or retired learning a new language

Learning a language later in life is somewhat more difficult but, remember, throughout your life, when was anything worthwhile all that easy? Learning to drive or swim, forging a career, bringing up children, even giving up smoking, not easy but definitely worthwhile.

Those of us in later life do have some advantages when it comes to language learning. We are doing it because we want to, the sheer pleasure of a new challenge is no chore and the reward of putting new knowledge to the test is tremendous. We have more time to take the steps of study and perhaps more opportunity to travel or otherwise indulge in the culture and cuisine of our chosen language. When learning a language later in life, you have the skills and intelligence acquired throughout your life to help with your learning. This might include ways of remembering things or methods of word association.

If a near relative or friend is embarking on a new language at nightschool, or maybe a grandchild at secondary school, why not take that language as your choice? A great chance for mutual assistance.

Finally, remember that using your brain in this way keeps the mind healthy and delays the onset of dementia and other such unpleasantness!