Knowing a new language is considered, by most people, a must have skill. The modern word is widely connected, we are witnessing a globalization that require us to be able to communicate with a broad number of people from different cultures. Having the knowledge of a foreign language, is a fundamental skill to acquire to be able to function in a reality like the one we are living. Some people think that this process of learning a new language, is something that children should take on at an early age.
There are many advantages for children that learn a foreign language when they are really young. At an young age, the mind of a child is really flexible, willing and able to learn. The fresh mind of a children, is able to acquire knowledge with less effort than the one of an older person and not least, is eager to learn and curious towards everything that is new. Consequently it will be easier for an young person, comparing to an adult, to remember a new language. I witness how children have this capability to easily gain new skills daily, working as a teacher.
On the other hand, there can be some disadvantages. Really young people need to use their time to be only themselves, children should not be over stressed and overwhelmed with having necessary to learn something all the time instead they need to play and to enjoy their childhood.
In my opinion a balance between learning experiences and play time is needed, especially at an early age. Yet, this can be achieved creating a playful learning experience and in addition giving the children the time to express themselves through the recreation.