SECOND LANGUAGE LEARNING IS A LIFELONG PROCESS

 

SECOND LANGUAGE LEARNING IS A LIFELONG PROCESS  Language learning is a lifelong process in many respects. How well your children speak their second or third languages will vary depending on their environment and its interactional demands.                        All of us have a tendency to think of bilingualism as a fixed goal or milestone. Learning a second language differs from milestones such as learning to walk or getting an education, dressed on one’s own—it’s a lifelong activity. The downside of this approach is that it is never "done." If bilingualism is a goal, parents always need to keep a close watch on both the quantity and quality of their children's language exposure. The good news is that it is never too late! It is important to keep this long-term perspective because there will be good days and bad days. For weeks, months, or even years, your child may refuse to speak her second language. Be prepared for this (it's inevitable) and don't take it to heart. It doesn't mean she doesn't understand the language, nor does it mean she isn't benefiting from exposure to it. Children also progress differently under very similar language learning environments!  Many things can influence a child’s language development—birth order, gender, aptitude, personality, parenting style, and so on—but the differences are usually minor and even out over time. Remember, even if your child goes on to study a totally new and different third language later in life, the investment in her second language is hardly wasted. Indeed, there is evidence that knowledge of a second language promotes the acquisition of a third. Early second language learning is a good investment as second language learning strategies seem to transfer across languages. DO NOT make comparisons with others. Every child and every family situation is unique. Concentrate on your own case. The choice of language, how you introduce and balance different languages in your home, and how your child progresses are all personal, individual decisions and stories.  Let’s go for the Mamaestra Program.  NOTA FOR ADULT STUDENTS: 1. Become friends with native speakers 2. Travel abroad to refresh your skills 3. Read newspapers online 4. Listen to music in Spanish 5. Serve as a tutor  6. Watch movies in Spanish 7. Have a language buddy   About Mamaestra de Español Mamaestra Course Mamaestra MUSIC Mamaestra Store Share our Work and Art