Parenting Drive: How to Help Your Children Learn a New Language Like English

Surround your child with the language. Just like immersion in water helps them learn to swim, immersion in a language helps them learn to speak and understand it. Here’s how you can do it:

• Label items around the house with English words (e.g., “table,” “door,” “window”) to help them associate the language with everyday objects.
• Use English media: Set up an English playlist with songs, TV shows, cartoons, or even audiobooks. Encourage them to watch English-language shows or listen to English songs that are appropriate for their age.
• Read books together: Explore children’s books written in English or bilingual versions. Reading to them and with them will boost their vocabulary.

2. Make Learning Fun with Games and Apps

Language learning can be playful! Children often learn best when they’re engaged and having fun, so make the process enjoyable:

• Use educational apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or ABCmouse, which offer interactive lessons designed for kids. These apps use games and rewards, keeping them motivated.
• Play games: You can make up flashcard games, word hunts, or charades in English. Simple games like “Simon says” in English will help them learn commands while having fun.
• Role-play: Pretend to be in a store or a restaurant where they must use English to communicate. These real-life simulations can boost their confidence in speaking English.

3. Encourage Consistent Practice

Consistency is key in language learning. Here are some strategies to help your child practice regularly:

• Set a daily routine: Have short, focused study sessions every day. It could be as simple as 15–20 minutes of practicing new vocabulary or doing an activity in English.
• Encourage speaking at home: Create moments in the day where English is spoken exclusively. For example, during breakfast, everyone has to speak English, or have an “English hour” where you talk only in the new language.
• Practice with friends or siblings: Arrange playdates with children who also speak or are learning English. Learning with peers can be both motivating and less stressful for your child.

4. Be Patient and Offer Positive Reinforcement

Learning a new language can be challenging, and your child may make mistakes. Your role is to be supportive and celebrate their progress. Here’s how to foster a positive learning atmosphere:

• Praise their efforts: Celebrate their achievements, no matter how small. Whether it’s correctly naming an object or forming a simple sentence, make sure they feel proud.
• Be patient: Don’t expect perfection right away. Language learning is a gradual process, and errors are part of the journey. When your child makes a mistake, gently correct them or model the right way to say it.
• Create a growth mindset: Encourage your child to understand that learning a language takes time and practice. Emphasize the idea that mistakes are a natural and helpful part of learning.

5. Lead by Example

Children learn by imitating their parents, so if you show interest in the language, they are likely to follow suit:

• Learn alongside them: If you don’t already know English, take this opportunity to learn with your child! You’ll not only bond over the shared experience but also model perseverance and enthusiasm for learning.
• Use English when possible: Even if you’re not fluent, make an effort to use basic English phrases in daily conversations. This can show your child that it’s okay not to be perfect and that effort is what matters.

6. Expose Them to Real-Life Opportunities

Finally, help your child see the value of learning English by giving them real-world opportunities to use the language:

• Travel: If possible, visit English-speaking countries or environments where English is commonly used, allowing them to practice in a natural setting.
• English-speaking communities: Participate in local activities or events where English is spoken. Community classes, clubs, or even virtual exchanges can give your child exposure to authentic English communication.