Rayito’s FAQ
Q. Is the program only for families with Spanish-speaking parents?
A. No. The majority of our students have English-speaking parents.
Q. What age is best to introduce a child to a second language?
A. Learning is an inverse function of age, the younger a child is, the faster a child will learn.This is the experience with language learning as well. Additionally, when a child builds both Spanish and English fluency they learn to speak each language with native-like pronunciation.
Q. What are the benefits of knowing a second language?
A. The life-long benefits for children who know more than one language include improved overall academic performance, problem-solving skills, creativity and approaches to complex matters.
Learning a second language, like learning any skill is a wonderful opportunity to keep young ‘sponge-like’ brains active and stimulated, setting a good habit and foundation for later life. Research indicates that even when a child discontinues the study of a second language, benefits to the brain remain with the child.
In addition to developing a lifelong ability to communicate with more people, children also derive indirect benefits. Knowing a second language gives people a competitive advantage in today’s multi-cultural, multi-lingual world of the twenty-first century, and can provide a competitive advantage in the workforce.
Q. Does a second language interfere with a child’s English ability?
A. In most cases, learning another language enhances a child’s English ability. Comparing and using two language systems is helpful to children’s understanding and use of each.
Reports have demonstrated that children who have learned a second language earn higher SAT scores
Q. Is it harder for a child to acquire two languages at once?
A. There is no evidence to suggest this. A child doesn’t have to be exceptional to become bilingual; as long as the child is exposed to two languages throughout early childhood, he or she will acquire them both. Additional activities at home are not required for a child to successfully learn a second language. We can, however, advise you in this regard if you wish to enhance your child’s language acquisition and experiences at home.
Q. Will my child have a hard time when introduced to a school program taught in English?
A. No. Studies show that exposure to a second language at an early age, enhances the part of the brain that processes language. Therefore, children are able to understand the intricate nuances of language more quickly than non-bilingual students.
Q. What if we do not speak any Spanish in the home?
A. Immersion programs are designed for English-only and non-Spanish speaking households.
