Do you want your child to pick up a new language? The good news is that from a very young age, children have the ability to pick up new languages very quickly and with minimal effort. Teaching a child a new language is an excellent way to provide them with a valuable skill that can be used in education and the rest of their lives. It is also well known for helping children develop vital cognitive skills and gain a better understanding of different cultures. So where do you begin? Below are some top tips for helping your child learn a new language.
Start early
Young children are like sponges, they absorb everything they see and hear. This is the reason why learning a new language comes easier to them than it does to an adult. Starting early allows you to be certain that your child will be proficient in the language. The sooner you begin, the easier it will be for your child to learn.
Make it fun
Introducing a new language into your child’s life can be challenging. However, it doesn’t have to be boring. Children respond better to activities that are engaging and seem exciting. Find fun and creative ways to teach your child the chosen language. This can be through games, songs and storytelling. Finding small ways to incorporate new pieces of vocabulary into your child’s daily life, can make all the difference.
Watch cartoons and films in a foreign language
Universally, there is one thing that can be agreed, children love to watch TV. So why not kill two birds with one stone and use it to your advantage? At a young age, most children master speech by listening and repeating the words. Associating new words with certain actions can also help. Encourage your child to watch their favourite film in a different language and see how they go. At first, they may giggle at the change in tone and language, but eventually they will become comfortable with it. Due to them already being familiar with the storyline, they will be able to connect prior knowledge to the foreign words that are being heard. This will help them with their pronunciation simply because children are great imitators.
Surround them with native speakers
If you have a friend or family member that is already fluent in the language, it is worth letting your child gain knowledge from them. Being surrounded by the language and culture can encourage your child to find a love for it. Not only will this bring about a greater sense of cultural appreciation but will improve your child’s accent and speed up the process of attaining the chosen language altogether.