World Language Learning for Neurodivergent Students

World language learning strengthens cognitive skills, builds cultural awareness, and enhances communication—benefits that are especially valuable for neurodivergent learners. It can also become a powerful differentiator in the college admissions process, showcasing adaptability, persistence, and a commitment to growth. When personalized to a student’s needs and interests, paired with the right support, students cannot only learn another language, but they can thrive in the process.

Unlocking Language Learning for Neurodivergent Students

The Benefits of World Language Learning

Learning a new language offers broad benefits for all students, from boosting vocabulary and reading comprehension to enhancing memory, problem-solving, and flexible thinking.

For neurodivergent students, these benefits are especially impactful. Language learning supports the development of executive functioning skills—such as organization, attention regulation, and task-switching—which are often areas of challenge.

According to the British Council’s The Benefits of Bilingualism for Neurodivergent Learners, acquiring another language can directly improve these functions. With thoughtful support, language learning not only helps students navigate challenges but also builds confidence and skills that extend well beyond the classroom. When instruction is personalized to a student’s pace, interests, and needs, the experience becomes both accessible and deeply rewarding. 

Rethinking Language Learning for Autistic Students

One persistent misconception is that autistic students shouldn’t learn another language—that it might further complicate communication or learning. But emerging research shows this concern isn’t supported by evidence.

A study by Beauchamp and MacLeod (2017) found that bilingualism does not negatively impact the development of autistic individuals. The study determined that research assessing executive functions, social cognition, and language abilities of autistic people suggests no detrimental effects of bilingualism.”

Every learner is unique. For some autistic students, language learning may even become a source of confidence, connection, and cognitive growth—especially when instructors offer consistency and adjust their teaching style to match the student’s preferred communication approach. 

ADHD and the Power of Intrinsic Motivation

For students with ADHD, persistence in language learning often hinges on genuine interest. As PsychCentral puts it, “For people with ADHD, persistence is inextricably tied to enthusiasm.” 

When students are excited about learning, they are more likely to persist and make meaningful progress. That’s why student choice matters. When learners can choose the language and even the instructor they connect with, they are more likely to stay engaged.

A one-to-one learning environment—like the model used at LanguageBird—minimizes distractions and allows lessons to adapt to a student’s focus patterns and energy levels, which is especially important for students with ADHD. LanguageBird’s lessons are also personalized to align with each learner’s interests, pace, learning style, and goals, making the experience both engaging and effective.

Why ASL Might Be a Great Fit

American Sign Language (ASL) offers unique benefits, especially for students with communication or sensory processing challenges. Its visual, expressive, and physical nature can be deeply engaging for neurodivergent learners. For example:

• Autism: ASL provides a visual mode of communication, reducing pressure to speak during sensory overload.
• Childhood Apraxia of Speech: ASL offers an expressive alternative for students who struggle with speech production.
• ADHD: The hands-on and spatial aspects of ASL can increase focus and engagement, especially with movement-based learning.
• Sensory Processing Disorders: ASL offers a calm, non-verbal way to express needs and emotions.
• Minimally Verbal or Non-speaking Students: ASL fosters communication, confidence, and connection.

Dr Eric Endlich, psychologist and founder of Top College Consultants, notes that “Many of our neurodivergent students who have struggled with the more commonly offered languages have a successful experience with ASL. Whether they are challenged by auditory processing or speech production, ASL gives them a completely different language modality. As an added benefit, because of its visual focus, ASL can also help students better read body language and facial expressions.”

Programs that teach ASL in a personalized, flexible format are especially beneficial, meeting students where they are and celebrating their communication strengths.

Tailoring the Learning Experience

As the British Council notes, “The key to supporting neurodivergent learners is understanding the specific needs and strengths of each person.” Tailoring the language-learning process to suit their learning style and support needs is essential.

 Instructional models that are relationship-based and student-driven—such as live, one-to-one sessions with the same instructor over time—create space for trust, flexibility, and connection. Students benefit when they can schedule lessons at times that suit their focus, engage with materials that match their interests, and build rapport with an educator who truly understands how they learn.

Multimodal instruction is another important consideration. Some programs integrate music, art, cultural exploration, and storytelling—all of which can support neurodivergent learners by tapping into multiple learning pathways. When lessons are built around what excites the student, learning becomes not just easier—but joyful. 

The College Admissions Advantage: World Language Learning as a Key Asset

For neurodivergent students, excelling in world language learning can also contribute significantly to their college applications. College admissions teams often look for students who have demonstrated perseverance, adaptability, and unique strengths in their academic pursuits. Language learning—particularly when tailored to individual needs—can showcase these qualities in a powerful way. Dr. Endlich reports, “Although our students sometimes apply to college–successfully–with zero foreign language courses on their high school transcript, many colleges list languages as an entrance requirement. When a student has completed multiple years of the same language, it instills confidence in college admissions officers that the student will have the persistence to complete their college degree.”

Building a Strong Application

In an increasingly competitive college admissions environment, demonstrating proficiency in a world language can set students apart. For neurodivergent students, the ability to master another language—especially in a personalized, supportive environment—speaks to resilience, cognitive growth, and a commitment to pushing beyond perceived limitations. This can be particularly valuable for students applying to colleges that prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion. It shows a commitment to developing skills that connect people from different cultural backgrounds.

Expanding Opportunities

For many students, especially those on the autism spectrum or with ADHD, world language learning can open doors to new opportunities. Whether it’s pursuing a degree in international studies, linguistics, or even a career in diplomacy, the cognitive and social skills developed through language learning can help neurodivergent students in their future endeavors. In addition, some colleges and universities may offer additional support for neurodivergent students, including language learning accommodations and assistive technology, making it even easier to build this skill.

Conclusion

Neurodivergent students deserve access to the full benefits of world language learning. With the right support, learning another language can help them connect, communicate, and grow—academically, professionally, and personally.

These gains also translate to college readiness. Language learning showcases persistence, adaptability, and cognitive growth—qualities that strengthen college applications and prepare students for future success.

Let’s reframe what’s possible. Every learner should have the chance to speak, sign, and understand the world in more than one language.