The Benefits Of Having a Bilingual Nanny

Do you want your child to learn a second language? Consider hiring a bilingual nanny! Studies have shown that learning a second language at a young age is good for the brain. How exactly can a bilingual nanny help your child learn a second language? We talk about the benefits of having a bilingual nanny, as well as the benefits of bilingualism, below.

Why learn a second language?

You may be worried that learning a second language at a young age may affect your child’s skills with their native language. However, learning a second language doesn’t cause language confusion, slow down native language learning, or slow down cognitive ability in general. In fact, learning a second language does the opposite! 

Becoming bilingual can improve several cognitive skills. Learning words and deciphering meanings in a different language requires good critical thinking, problem solving, and listening skills. Switching between different language systems requires strong focus, attention, memory, and logic. These benefits can not only help children excel academically now, they can come into play when they enter the job market as adults. 

Full immersion in another language

What’s the best way to learn a new language? Many studies and organizations point to full immersion. For example, in a school immersion program, students spend at least half of their time learning in a second language. If your child’s school doesn’t have those kinds of programs, that’s where a bilingual nanny can come in to help. 

A bilingual nanny can speak the second language to your child naturally, allowing them to absorb everyday words and phrases from a native speaker. Rather than learn a new language in a classroom through books and lectures, a bilingual nanny can teach your child to associate new words and phrases through experiences. While walking through a park to the playground, your nanny can teach them how to say “bird” or “grass” or “sky” in French as they’re experiencing those sights, sounds, or objects. Sensory memories can be very helpful when learning a second language.

Experience with different cultures

Learning a second language is also an opportunity to learn about another culture. Your nanny can introduce your child to an entirely different world with unique histories, beliefs, food, traditions, clothing, art, and so much more. 

Being introduced to a new language and culture will pique your child’s curiosity and open their mind to the differences of others. Studies have shown that bilinguals are typically better at reading other people than monolinguals. Those who know a second language seem to have better empathy and appreciation for new perspectives.

Start learning another language

Having a bilingual nanny to teach your child also means you can begin language lessons earlier! Rather than wait for a certain age to enroll your child in an immersion program, your nanny can begin language lessons as soon as you’d like to. It can also be a more cost-effective option than immersion programs or separate language lessons.

Ready to hire a bilingual nanny for your child? A Perfect Fit works with a wide range of bilingual and multilingual nannies that are also experienced, highly qualified childcare professionals. To learn more about how we match families with the perfect nanny, or to view our other services, connect with our Perfect Fit team.