When is the Best Time of Year for Kids to Learn a New Language?

03 July 2026

Author:

Berlitz

In Dubai and across the UAE and the Gulf, you’ll see these words and phrases show up in real - life conversations, study, and work.

The new school year has already begun in the UAE, and for many parents, it’s also the perfect opportunity to assess their child’s extracurricular activities and explore new skills they might want to develop.

Language learning, in particular, is a valuable skill to invest in. It offers numerous cognitive benefits and has even been shown to foster greater empathy in children.

Research also indicates that the earlier children begin learning a second language, the easier it is for them to acquire that language and potentially achieve native - level proficiency. This is why school language programs are so important.

Wondering when is the best time of year for your child to start language learning in the UAE? Here are some key points to consider when planning language classes for kids.

How Does the Time of Year Impact Learning a Second Language?
Whether your child is learning Spanish, French, Arabic, or any other language, there are factors that can influence when they should start. There’s no strict “right” or “wrong” time of year for a child to learn a new language. Each season comes with its unique benefits and some potential challenges. For example, in the fall, many children are adjusting to returning to school after summer break. Adding extracurricular activities like language learning may feel overwhelming for some. Conversely, during summer break, children may have more free time, but also face more distractions. It’s essential to consider your child’s personality and preferred learning style when planning a language program. Some children thrive in face - to - face classes where they can interact with teachers and peers, while others may benefit more from online lessons that allow them to learn at their own pace. As for scheduling, Stanford researchers recommend that children spend no more than four hours per day, or 20 hours per week, on extracurricular activities. This total includes all activities - sports, music, dance, and language learning - so managing your child’s schedule is crucial to avoid burnout. Benefits of Learning a New Language for Kids by Season
Fall:
September marks the start of the new school year in the UAE, making it a popular time to begin language classes. Starting at this time allows children to integrate language learning into their routine seamlessly. Winter:
With fewer school and extracurricular commitments, winter is a great period for children to focus on developing their new language skills. Spring:
By spring, children are usually settled into their school routine. This season offers a fresh start and can be the perfect time to challenge them with a new language, keeping motivation levels high. Summer:
Summer holidays provide children with more free time to immerse themselves in language learning. In the UAE, summer is also a great opportunity to plan educational trips abroad or within the region, giving children a chance to practice their new language in real - life situations. Berlitz UAE: Language Programs for Kids and Teens
With Berlitz UAE, your child can enjoy a fun, effective, and culturally immersive language learning experience, no matter the season. For structured practice, Berlitz UAE can help - whether you learn at the Berlitz Berlitz Jumeirah Centre or the Berlitz JLT Centre in Dubai. Find out more about our programs and give your child the gift of language today.