According to some theories of cognitive development, it is preferable that children start learning other languages before they reach the age of ten. Long-term students of LOTE perform well on standardized tests. Students enrolled in LOTE programs score statistically higher on standardized tests conducted in English. Learning a second language at an early age enhances native language development. Learning another language enhances a child's linguistic abilities in his or her native language.
Children can learn much about their native language by learning the structure of other languages.
Similar vocabulary between languages also helps children reinforce the meaning of new words in their native language and the new language. Experimental studies that compared children participating in second language immersion classes and children educated exclusively in the native language showed no long-term delay in native language development for those children in immersion classrooms. Learning a second language strengthens rather than hinders a child's first language development. See Chapter Five of the Framework for more information on types of immersion programs. All rights reserved.