One of the primary advantages of a bilingual education is the cognitive boost it provides to children.
Research has shown that bilingualism enhances cognitive skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, attention control, working memory, cognitive flexibility and multitasking.
The constant juggling between two languages creates mental flexibility, turning young minds into effective problem solvers.
Bilingual education goes beyond language acquisition; it cultivates a deep appreciation for different cultures. Children exposed to multiple languages from a young age tend to develop empathy and cultural sensitivity, traits that are crucial in today’s globalised world. This early exposure sets the stage for a more inclusive and understanding society.
Studies have shown that bilingual students often outperform their monolingual counterparts in academic assessments. The mental dexterity acquired through bilingualism translates into improved performance across various subjects.
Research references
The following references are cited on page 10 of our 2025 annual report:
- Oberc, K. A., Vettori, G., Bigozzi, L., & Filippi, R. (2025). Effects of Italian/English bilingual education on cognitive development: A pilot study. International Journal of Bilingualism, 1–22.
- Chamorro, G., & Janke, V. (2022). Investigating the bilingual advantage: The impact of L2 exposure on the social and cognitive skills of monolingually-raised children in bilingual education. International Journal of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism, 25(5), 1765–1781.
- García, O. (2008). “Benefits of Bilingualism”, chapter 5 of Bilingual Education in the 21st Century: A Global Perspective. John Wiley & Sons.