The question of the theoretically optimal age for starting second language acquisition has not as yet been satisfactorally answered. McLaughlin (1978, p. 131) summarizes research findings with the conclusion that the "optimal time to introduce a child to a second language is at birth". However, if this is not possible, then research would seem to indicate that "a later, rather than an earlier, start in the second language is better". There is one exception to this as young children were found "to be superior in acquiring the sound system of the second language". The main argument for the later introduc- tion of second language teaching is the greater cognitive maturity of the children. Weighed against this, one has the uninhibitedness and spontaneity of the younger child. Genesee (1978) agrees in principle with these argu- ments, stating that late instruction has the advantage of the learner's greater learning efficiency. However, because of the additional factor of length of exposure to a language he argues that early instruction gives a child extended opportunities for language learning in and outside school. If then the language instruction is continued through the higher grades, which includes the advantage of greater learning efficiency, then early instruction is probably "more conducive to attaining the higher levels of second language proficiency.," (1978, p. 153) However, one must not forget that age alone is not necessarily the decisive factor in determining a child's ability to acquire a second language, as other factors such as motivation and attitudes may play an important role.