Do you learn a second language faster than your first one?

I started learning mandarin 6 weeks ago. At first things go really fast and I learned words and greetings easily. Now things are going slower. Not harder, but slower. So my first question is has anyone experienced this? My 2nd question is do you learn a second language faster than your first one? I was talking to my mom (monolingual) and she said that by the time I am 18 (I am 13 now) that I will be able to speak like a 6 year old. Is this true? I have heard of people becoming fluent in a language with a couple of years of hard work.
PS

I have some teach your self materials, but I mainly practice with 3 native speakers through skype. I use a webcam and so do my partners.

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