Some people argue that a foreign language should be introduced to children at primary school, rather than at secondary school. I strongly agree with this idea, and in this essay it will be discussed why it is important to learn a foreign language from an early stage of development.
To start with, children find it less difficult to study and acquire a new language at a young age rather than later in secondary school. This is primarily because their brain in that stage of development absorbs information in a different way. In fact, many studies suggest introducing children to languages while they are in primary school because their brains are more elastic. This permits them to absorb knowledge without the effort of an adult. For instance, grammar, sounds and structures are elaborated by a procedural memory, typical of a juvenile, in an implicit way, making the use of the language automatic and fluid for the rest of their life.
A second point to consider is that learning a second or third language enables mental flexibility from early stages of life. As highlighted by some scholars, switching between languages enables the brain to develop areas of the brain responsible for concentration, working memory and flexibility. These could result in helping the children think more abstractly, do complex reasoning, and solving problems. For example, many adults that learned a language early, expressed that they find it easier to work in difficult situations and under pressure, thanks to their enhanced ability to solve problems and manage their thoughts.
In conclusion, I strongly believe that introducing a second foreign language to children at primary school is important and gives children cognitive and long-term advantages.