A Critical Period for Second Language Acquisition

A critical period for second language acquisition refers to a time in early childhood when the brain is especially receptive to learning new languages. During this window—usually before puberty—children can often achieve near-native fluency more easily. After this period, language learning becomes more challenging, and individuals may struggle with pronunciation and grammar. This concept suggests that the brain’s plasticity decreases with age, making late language learners less likely to acquire a second language with the same ease and proficiency as children.