Foreign language training to children should start at an early age.

If you want to teach your child a foreign language, start when he or she is in kindergarten.

Do you agree with this statement?

Introduction
Several studies have shown that the best age to teach a child a foreign language is between three and six. Their grasping power is greater at this age, and their ability to learn a new language is highest at this age. While older children can learn a foreign language, it gets difficult, say experts. Even adults can pick up a new language, but their chances are perceivably lesser.

Mean age for learning a language

According to some studies, there is a bracket period when a child can learn a foreign language. With advancement of age, the ability to pick up a new language gradually drops. So some studies say that the best time to teach a child a foreign language is when she or he is learning their first language. There is a flip side to this as well. By teaching a child more than one language at a time, we run the risk of confusing the child. The child might be unable to become proficient in either of the languages.

However, it is quite possible for an adult to learn new languages. With motivation, dedication, and hard work, it will be very easy for an older child or an adult to learn a foreign language. It is important to frequently converse in the language; that is the best way to learn. Constant practice also improves the fluency. Besides, there are some other studies that show that adults are at a better position to learn a foreign language than children. The primary reason given for that is - adults have a greater choice in this regard. As opposed to being pushed into learning something new, they are making a conscious decision to learn the language.

Adults also learn analytically; applying their mind to their work. Whereas children on the other hand need tools like games, and flash cards, to learn. Adults are more efficient at learning; their concentration levels are higher when compared to children. Children are prone to shorter attention spans as well.

Conclusion

It is my personal opinion that adults are better equipped to learn new things, as they are more mature, and their intelligence levels are fully developed. Many times adults will need to learn a new language, for instance, if they are moving aboard to pursue further studies. Countries like Germany, France, Russia, etc. will require people to learn their language, as most of the business is conducted in the local language. Or if an adult has to move to another country as part of their work, and has to converse with the people there, she or he will have to learn the language.

So I would say that any age is good to learn a new language. If you have the passion and the will power for it, learning will be fun and joyful!