What is the Best Age to Learn a Language?

You can always learn a new language, no matter your age, although it can be challenging, it can also be incredibly rewarding. Learning a new language provides insight into an entirely different world and culture. 

Scientists and researchers have gone back and forth over the years about what is the best age to learn a new language. The question really is, at what age is it the easiest to retain and speak the new language? Many believe that the adolescent years are the best time to learn a second language, however, the critical period really ends before puberty, after which hormones kick in and act as a great distractor (Should you really be expected to learn to communicate once you can replicate yourself? That seems like a tall order!) The learning curve is also largely circumstantial. Whether or not a child will learn a second language depends on whether or not the child continues to speak that second language after the learning period. 

One of the most important factors in maintaining bilingualism  depends on whether or not the person is forced to learn a second language due to emigration. It is easier to learn a second language in an environment that forces one to assimilate. 
Whether or not you believe you’re too old to learn a new language, at Paragon, we strongly encourage that you embark on the journey. There might be greater barriers and challenges at a later age, but if you’re learning for personal enjoyment, than why pressure yourself to get it perfect the first time? After all, it’s not about the destination; it’s about the journey.  

Resources: 
http://people.howstuffworks.com/best-age-learn-language.htm (not the best source, but I have heard that scientists have gone back and forth between ages 6-7 or 11-14)
http://esl.fis.edu/parents/advice/myth2.htm

http://esl.fis.edu/parents/advice/myth1.htm

Images Source:http://www.ylaa.ch/en/home/