It’s a common fact that the information perceived in early childhood is memorized better. Findings of independent studies prove that children who spoke English or other foreign languages at an early stage, preserve this knowledge and can speak the mastered language fluently throughout their entire lives. This is why parents try to teach English to children at an early stage. After all, the main benefits of this practice include enhanced cognitive skills, communication, and global opportunities.
In the article, readers will find practical strategies for teaching English to children, from toddlers to young learners. We offer effective practices that are guaranteed to improve your strategy of teaching English to kids.
Why Teaching English to Kids is Important?
Parents fall into two groups according to their relation to early English education – those who prefer not to overload children with information and those who introduce early lessons of English practice. The latter outlines the following benefits:
- Improved cognitive capabilities. It’s a proven fact that studying languages helps develop the brain and improve neuron connections. Thus, English practice at an early stage contributes to better and quicker mental development.
- Free social skills and barrier-free communication. When children enter a new social environment, they are not afraid of communication.
- A broader worldview. Studying a foreign language implies plunging into a new culture. Thus, children open their horizons and get new knowledge about other countries and cultures within the framework of studying a new language.
- Better educational opportunities. Children who speak English fluently can enter foreign (including, international) universities in the future, which is a great contribution to children’s perspectives.
Nowadays, English is a leading language for international communication. Thus, parents who follow this strategy will never regret their choice.
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Main Principles of Teaching English to Children
Now, let’s get down to the issue of how to teach English to kids. A young age sets certain specifics of information presentation. Thus, parents and teachers should keep in mind the following principles when teaching a foreign language:
- Keep it fun. Children perceive information better through play, songs, and interactive activities.
- Use games, stories, and visuals to make learning enjoyable.
- Start with simple vocabulary. Focus on basic words and phrases, which are commonly used in everyday activities (for instance, colors, animals, food).
- Consistency is key. Regular practice helps children improve vocabulary and grammar concepts.
- Use visual aids and gestures. These strategies help children connect words with images and actions, which is especially useful for toddlers and early learners.
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Age-Specific Approaches for Teaching English
Note that teaching approaches differ, depending on kids’ age. Children tend to perceive information differently, depending on their age, so it’s important to keep these specifics in mind.
Teaching English to Toddlers
At this stage, toddlers perceive information mainly through voices and sounds. Thus, it’s necessary to emphasize listening and speaking skills. Incorporate songs, rhymes, and simple storytelling. When teaching English for toddlers, remember that they get tired quickly and do not retain concentration for a long period, so keep activities short and engaging.
Teaching Preschoolers (3-5 years)
At this age, focus on building a basic vocabulary. Introduce simple sentences and encourage children to repeat them. Make sure to use picture books and flashcards to enhance learning.
Teaching Elementary Age Kids (6-9 years)
At this stage, it’s possible to start introducing grammar and more complex vocabulary in the form of fun exercises, such as word games or role-playing. Allow children to start forming simple sentences on their own.
Professional educated teachers are aware of these specifics and know how to convey information clearly. Thus, if you send your kid to a kindergarten in Russia, a good result is guaranteed. The main benefits of teaching a foreign language in the kindergarten include information presentation in a game form and an individual approach. Skilled teachers identify children’s strong sides and use them to ensure better information perception. Besides, a teaching program is developed professionally, based on studies and statistics.
Effective Techniques and Strategies for Teaching English to Children
Let’s move on to practice and discuss how to improve the effectiveness of information memorization. Here are the most effective techniques for the educational process:
- Storytelling and reading aloud. Choose age-appropriate stories and read them aloud, encouraging children to repeat words and phrases. Discuss the story afterward, asking simple questions to check comprehension.
- Interactive games. Games like “Simon Says,” flashcard races, or memory matching games are great for reinforcing vocabulary.
- Songs and rhymes. Using music helps children learn pronunciation and rhythm in a fun, engaging way.
- Language immersion at home. Encourage simple English conversations at home, such as greeting the child in English or naming objects around the house.
By applying these simple techniques, you’ll ensure smooth remembering and improve the effectiveness of teaching English to children.
Tools and Resources for Teaching English to Kids
It’s impossible to develop an effective comprehensible education process without using manuals, tools, and modern resources. The following solutions help simplify the process and enhance its effectiveness:
- Educational apps. Nowadays, software developers offer advanced kid-friendly apps for English learning. These include Duolingo, ABCmouse, etc.
- Picture books and flashcards. Make sure to use colorful, engaging materials like picture books for young learners and flashcards for building vocabulary.
- Online videos and games. Multiple platforms like the British Council’s “Learn English Kids” are offered online. Use free resources, including videos and interactive activities.
- English TV shows and cartoons. Choose age-appropriate TV shows and cartoons (e.g., Sesame Street) that introduce children to English in an entertaining way.
The use of manuals, tools, and digital solutions boosts memorization and improves the effectiveness of information presentation and perception.
Overcoming Common Challenges
You should always be aware of the existing challenges that you may face when teaching a foreign language. Keep in mind the most typical challenges to be ready to eliminate them promptly:
- Lack of interest. Parents should make the educational process fun to attract kids and retain their attention. This can be achieved by incorporating English into fun activities like singing, playing games, or watching cartoons in English.
- Language anxiety. Create a comfortable, pressure-free environment where making mistakes is encouraged as part of the learning process.
- Short attention span. Offer strategies to keep lessons short, interactive, and engaging, adapting content to the child’s level of focus.
Tips for Parents Teaching English at Home
Finally, here are some tips that will help develop an effective educational process at home:
- Create a routine. You should set aside specific times during the day for English learning, making it a part of daily activities.
- Be patient and encouraging. Parents should celebrate small milestones and avoid correcting too harshly, as positive reinforcement keeps kids motivated.
- Use the environment. You should label items around the house in English to help the child learn new words.
Early language learning has lasting benefits for children’s cognitive and social development. Now, you know how to teach English to children more effectively. Teaching English to children requires patience, creativity, and consistency. Remember that the main thing to achieve a good result in this task is to make learning English a fun and interactive experience.