Learning a language takes time, and every child develops at their own pace. One of the best ways you can help is to make sure your child feels comfortable using English, making mistakes and trying new things.
Help your child feel confident
Many children feel nervous about speaking a new language. Some worry about making mistakes, and some need more time than others.
You can help your child feel confident by:
- Being patient and encouraging
- Listening without interrupting
- Celebrating effort as well as achievement
- Giving them opportunities to use language they already know
- Allowing them to decide when they’re ready to speak
- Making mistakes is a normal part of language learning and helps children improve over time.
Making mistakes is a normal part of language learning and helps children improve over time.
Help your child feel motivated
Children are usually motivated when learning feels enjoyable, useful and connected to their interests.
To help your child feel motivated, try to:
- Use topics your child enjoys
- Let them choose between activities
- Choose activities at the right level
- Encourage them to be creative and curious
- Show that you enjoy learning new things yourself!
Children who enjoy the learning process usually want to keep practising, even when learning becomes challenging.
Help your child feel supported
Your child’s teacher can tell you the best ways to support learning at home. They can also help you understand your child’s progress.
To make sure your child feels supported, ask their teacher:
- What is my child’s next learning goal?
- What activities would help at home?
- What are my child’s strengths?
- Can you recommend any resources?
You play a valuable role in your child’s English learning journey. Speak to your child’s teacher regularly to make sure you are working towards the same goals.