British Sign Language (BSL) was recognised as an official language nearly two decades ago in 2003, but despite this, it’s still not a part of the national curriculum.

Learning sign language benefits not only the deaf and hard of hearing community but can open up a whole world of opportunity for young and old.

As a speech pathologist working with babies and toddlers, Emily Goudreault has seen the benefits sign language can provide.

Finally, learning a foreign language has been shown to stave off the effects of age-induced dementia and alzheimers. These skills can make you a better communicator.

Below are seven cognitive advantages to learning a foreign language. Many of these attributes are only apparent in people who speak multiple languages regularly – if you haven’t spoken a ...