By Jeslyn Jessy

In today's fast changing world, knowing two or more languages is considered a distinct advantage. Bilingualism enables young children to communicate with a wider variety of people and exposes them to different cultures. In future, when they grow up, bilingualism helps to open up more job opportunities to them. The research has proven that learning two different language systems enable the children to enhance their thinking skills.

Although the young children can gain many benefits from learning more languages, there are some important points the parents have to consider:

• Children have an amazing capacity for learning languages and they seem to be equipped with the skills to learn many languages simultaneously. However, it is essential to bear in mind that all children are different. Their learning progresses are different. Each child learns language at his or her own pace and in his or her own way. Some fast learners appear to have a greater natural aptitude for language learning if you compare with others. Hence, being loving parents, you are reminded to be patient if your children are not able to catch up fast.

• We should never treat our kids as adults. The language we use with young children should not be too complex. We should focus on developing language skills for genuine communication. Do not focus on rote learning or drilling because there is no obvious improvement in the long-term. Furthermore, the young children will lose their interest on certain language. The parents must guide the children in a positive manner where lots of encouragement and praise should be given to them for their hard efforts.

• We must not mix languages in the same conversation when we talk to our children. They will experience the difficulty in separating vocabulary and grammar into the appropriate language. In my personal opinion, consistency is the key word. Make sure there is no mixed language.

• Although we want our children to be bilingual, we can't force them to follow our instructions. The parents should seek agreement from their children in learning the second language. Having the right attitude towards the target language is a must. A child needs to understand and feel that the languages spoken have a sense of worth. In general, children are willing to communicate in a new language if they perceive that the particular language is meaningful.

To sum up, before making any decision, the parents are reminded to plan properly so that the young children are able to learn new things with positive attitude. We need to work out the right strategies in order to obtain desired results. We want the kids to be happy when they are going through the learning process.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeslyn_Jessy