Learning a foreign language is not always easy because there are several factors that allow learning. The theory of the “Critical Period” (Critical Period Hypothesis – CPH) suggests that there is a time window, until puberty, during which the brain is particularly receptive to language learning.
During this stage, children benefit from considerable brain plasticity, facilitating the assimilation of sounds and grammatical rules. Outside of this period, sensitivity to foreign phonemes decreases, making native pronunciation more difficult. However, recent research shows that adults can also learn a new language successfully, adopting different strategies than younger people.
The Advantages of Childhood in Language Learning
Childhood is considered the ideal stage for acquiring a foreign language, due to greater neurological plasticity and the ability to learn implicitly. Children adapt quickly to linguistic stimuli, internalizing grammatical rules without the need for formal instructions and developing authentic pronunciation. Their ability of 'categorical perception' allows them to distinguish subtle variations in phonemes. However, success in learning strongly depends on the quality of exposure to the language.
Adults and the Challenges of Language Learning
Despite a lower brain plasticity than children, adults have advantages related to cognitive maturity, which facilitates the analysis of complex grammatical rules. Often motivated by specific goals, they are able to achieve high levels of linguistic competence, despite difficulties in pronunciation. In addition, learning new languages brings psychological benefits, such as the reduction of cognitive decline and improved memory. A personalized approach, which combines linguistic immersion and structured resources, is essential for effective learning at any age.
Science challenges the idea that age is a definitive barrier to learning foreign languages. Both children and adults can acquire new language skills, each with their own strengths and challenges. The important thing is to adopt appropriate teaching methods and maintain high motivation, demonstrating that learning has no age.
Article published on 2 January 2025 - 12:53
