Tags
languages braintraining bilingualism

More fuel for Bilingualism as one of the most effective forms of brain training in the op-ed piece in this Sunday's New York Times. The article highlights research that now shows that that the 'interference' that is created in the brain from having two languages active at the same time even when speaking one language is a blessing in disguise as It forces the brain to resolve internal conflict, giving the mind a workout that strengthens its cognitive muscles. It would appear that this, in turn, improves the executive function of the brain that we use for planning, solving problems and performing various other mentally demanding tasks. This type of research is a rallying cry to help encourage families who speak more than one language to persevere in raising their children bilingually. For the rest of us, it seems increasingly clear that the act of learning a second language has so many other positive benefits and spin-offs in respect of improved cognitive function.