There are numerous benefits associated with having a bilingual brain. Here are some of the most important ones:

1. Improved cognitive function: Studies have shown that bilingual individuals have better cognitive control, working memory, and executive function compared to monolingual individuals. This means that they are better able to multitask, make decisions, and solve problems.
2. Delayed onset of cognitive decline: Bilingualism has been shown to delay the onset of cognitive decline and may protect against certain age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia.
3. Enhanced communication skills: Bilingual individuals have an advantage in communicating with people from different cultures and backgrounds. They are also better able to switch between languages, which can be useful in a variety of settings.
4. Improved academic performance: Bilingualism has been shown to improve academic performance, especially in subjects such as math, reading, and language arts.
5. Greater job opportunities: Being bilingual can provide a competitive edge in the job market, especially in fields such as business, healthcare, and education.

It’s obvious that knowing more than one language can make certain things easier — like traveling or watching movies without subtitles. But are there other advantages to having a bilingual (or multilingual) brain? Educator Mia Nacamulli details the three types of bilingual brains and shows how knowing more than one language keeps your brain healthy, complex and actively engaged. (Directed by TED-Ed, narrated by Pen-Pen Chen)