This abstract provides a concise summary of the influence of second language acquisition on learners' cognitive and linguistic progress at the elementary level. It synthesises the key findings and highlights the significance of early second language learning for children's cognitive and linguistic development. Research has consistently shown that early exposure to a second language has a profound impact on children's cognitive development. It enhances executive functions, metalinguistic awareness, problem-solving skills, cultural understanding, and academic performance. These cognitive benefits have a direct and positive influence on learners' overall cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, second language acquisition significantly contributes to learners' linguistic progress. It expands vocabulary, improves grammar and sentence structure, enhances pronunciation and phonetics, develops language processing abilities, and boosts writing and reading skills. Additionally, it fosters metalinguistic awareness, allowing learners to think and reflect on language itself, further enhancing their linguistic proficiency in both their first and second languages. However, the extent and effectiveness of these cognitive and linguistic benefits depend on various factors, including the quality and amount of exposure to the second language, the level of support and opportunities for practice, and learner motivation. It is crucial to provide consistent and high-quality second language learning experiences to maximise the positive influence on learners' cognitive and linguistic progress at the elementary level.
Key words: Second Language, Linguistic development, Elementary, Acquisition, cognitive development, influence of age, academic performance, effect of native language
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