SILLY TALK

Many misconceptions exist among parents about early language learning.  Research has proven time and time again that young children are capable of learning multiple languages from birth.  The information here is presented to help clear up some of the most common misconceptions - or what a child might call silly talk.

SILLY TALK:  "Learning a second language may confuse my child and delay her speech..."

PLAIN SPEAK:  There is no scientific evidence that attributes speech delay to learning multiple languages.  All kids are different and when they start speaking will vary somewhat.  Most kids learning a second language begin talking in the period between xx and xx months just like kids only learning one language.  Far from confusing them, research shows that the skills needed for learning multiple languages aid children in a better understanding of their mother tongue, aid memory and listening skills, and contribute to them being better learners throughout their lives.

SILLY TALK:  "My 2 year old can't learn a second language.  He doesn't even really know English yet."

PLAIN SPEAK:  The sooner a child begins learning a second language the easier it will be for him to master that language.  The ideal time is to learn the second language right alongside learning the first.  Children's brains are hard wired to learn languages - and they learn it very quickly.  This ability diminishes significantly each year.

SILLY TALK:  My child can learn a second language in school when she is a little bit older.

PLAIN SPEAK:  The sooner a child begins learning a second language the easier it will be for her to master that language.  The ideal time is to learn the second language right alongside learning the first at a very early age.  The majority of schools in the U.S. begin language programs in middle school or high school which is too late.  Elementary school programs are often very short in duration and with a large class size.  Enrichment classes such as those at Jabberu or great either on their own, or as a supplement to the programs provided in pre-schools and elementary schools.

SILLY TALK:  My child can learn a second language by watching DVDs at home.

PLAIN SPEAK:  There is no substitute for human interaction when it comes to teaching children.  In fact, research shows "educational" DVDs may have the opposite effect when young children view them.  Our instructors teach through immersion, meaning they only speak to the child in the language;  they are all native speakers of their language and experienced teaching a second language to children.  This is proven to be the most effective way for kids to learn a language.