Is there a cut-off age for learning a language?

A new study has suggested that if you want to speak a language fluently you need to start before the age of 10. We don't necessarily agree!

In this video, Coffee Break Founder and CEO Mark Pentleton explains his thoughts on language-learning and how it relates to age. Many learners using our Coffee Break courses are older learners and, as Mark explains, we firmly believe starting to learn a new language, or picking up a language later in life can bring huge benefits.

It's not necessarily about being fluent either: learning a language at any age enriches your life, and if you can do what you want to do with that language, that's the important thing.

Sources referred to in the video:

Original article: "Critical window for learning a language"
http://www.bbc.com/news/health-43947365

Steve Kaufmann's YouTube channel
https://www.youtube.com/user/lingosteve

Steve's interview with Mark, filmed at Langfest Montreal 2017
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEcWX3X3LUU

Coffee Break Languages
http://coffeebreaklanguages.com

We'd love to know what you think: when did you start learning the language? Do you think that you have to be fluent in the language you're learning? Is that your ultimate goal? Are you an "older learner"? What benefits have you experienced from using a language, no matter what stage you're at? Please post your thoughts in the comments!

Видео Is there a cut-off age for learning a language? канала Coffee Break Languages