The benefits of being bilingual

Being bilingual (or even multilingual) has become extremely important and useful in our globalized world. And the sooner the process of learning a foreign language starts, the better. That’s because children are like sponges: they absorb information superbly in their early years, and they have the mental capacity to learn more than one language.

The obvious advantages of bilingualism are conversing to more of the world’s population and expanding your horizons, but also having better job prospects. These are not, however, the only advantages. First of all, being bilingual makes you smarter. Studies have shown that bilingual students generally academically outperform and score statistically higher on college entrance exams than those who only speak one language. Research also shows that bilingualism is a form of brain training. Speaking two languages profoundly changes the brain and how the nervous system responds to sound. It keeps the brain active and alert.


Individuals who are fluent in more than one language tend to have quicker response rates than those who only speak one, as well as heightened concentration.

Bilingual children also have better literacy skills. They have a deeper understanding of the structure of language. They tend to be creatively gifted, as bilingualism is proven to develop “outside-the-box” thinking, useful for problem solving and innovation.

More importantly, a bilingual education gives students the opportunity to become bi-cultural and to truly understand the values and the society of more than one culture. Children grow to understand, accept and appreciate the differences between cultures.

Bilingual education, particularly through studying at an International school, helps children to become global minded citizens suited for the global, multicultural society we live in.

Here are some more advantages of being bilingual:
» Ability to learn new words easily
» Ability to use information in new ways
» Ability to come up with solutions to problems
» Good listening skills
» Connecting with others. Improved social skills
» Improved attention to detail
» Improved memory
» Improved control
» Growing up bilingual is beneficial well into an individual’s senior years. It offers protection against illnesses like Alzheimer’s disease
» Bilingual children are less likely to develop anxiety, loneliness or low self-esteem
» Reduced stress
» Reduced risk of depression
» Bilingual children are less likely to become involved in dangerous habits such as alcohol use, drug use, overeating, and risky behavior
» Bilinguals lead the way in international business, creativity, problem-solving and health

A leading International School in Bucharest, InSPE (www.inspe.ro) focuses on providing a balanced and rich education, using English and a hands-on approach at the core of its curriculum.

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