Have you ever wondered why children seem to learn languages so easily? Maybe a child can pick up new words in English, Spanish, or another language faster than you. Many people think that only children can learn new languages well. But is this really true? Let’s talk about why children are good at learning languages and why adults can still do it too.
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Scientists say that children’s brains are “plastic.” This means they can change and grow quickly. For example, when a child hears a new word, their brain connects it to what they see or feel. This helps them remember it.
Another reason children learn quickly is because they are not afraid to make mistakes. When a child says a word wrong, people often correct them kindly. They keep trying until they get it right. Adults, on the other hand, often feel shy or embarrassed about making mistakes. This can slow down learning.
Also, children hear languages all the time. They spend many hours at school, playing with friends, or listening to their parents. This gives them lots of practice. Adults may not have as much time to practise a new language.
Yes, adults can learn new languages! In fact, adults have some advantages that children do not. For example, adults already know many things about the world. They can use this knowledge to understand new words. If you are learning English, you might already know some English words from TV, songs, or books. This makes it easier to start learning.
Adults also know how to study. Children do not usually think about grammar or practise words in a notebook. Adults can plan their learning. They can study grammar, use apps, or join a class.
One important thing is motivation. Adults often have strong reasons to learn a language. Maybe you want a better job, want to travel, or want to help your children. This motivation can make adults work hard and learn faster
Scientists have studied how children and adults learn languages. They found that children are better at learning pronunciation. For example, children can sound like native speakers if they start learning a language before they are about 10 years old. Adults might always have an accent, but that’s okay! Many people love hearing different accents.
One published study* showed that adults can learn new grammar rules as well as children. The key is to practise regularly.
Other studies have found that adults who spend just 15- 30 minutes a day learning a language can improve quickly**
Whether you are 6 or 60, you can learn a new language. Here are some tips to help you:
Learning Together
If you have children, you can learn together. Children love teaching their parents new words. You can also play language games as a family. This helps everyone improve and have fun.
Children may seem better at learning languages, but adults can do it too! The most important thing is to start and keep going. Don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone learns at their own speed. Remember, learning a new language is like a journey. Take small steps, enjoy the process, and you will succeed.
So, are children better at learning languages than you? Maybe they are, but that does not mean you can’t learn too. Start today, and you will be surprised at how much you can achieve!
*A study published in Language Learning examined the relationship between different types of language learning aptitude and adult second language (L2) speech production attainment in English-as-a-foreign-language (EFL) classrooms. The research found that adult learners’ aptitude in phonemic coding, rote and associative memory, and language analytic ability were moderately predictive of their phonological and morphological accuracy, suggesting that adults possess the capacity to acquire new grammar rules effectively.
**Experts emphasize that daily practice is crucial in language learning. Engaging in regular and consistent language practice leads to faster learning outcomes. By dedicating time each day to language learning, individuals can develop a deeper understanding of grammar rules, vocabulary, and pronunciation.
Additionally, incorporating language learning into daily routines, even in short sessions, can significantly boost retention and fluency. Being exposed to and using the target language on a daily basis helps learners establish a routine and develop a habit of learning, which is crucial for language acquisition.
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