How Do You Teach A Child English?
Fortunately, children’s brains are hard-wired to learn languages, especially before the age of 6. But children can acquire language skills at any age with encouragement and support. English has particular challenges since there are so many words that sound the same but have different meanings; there are many irregular verbs, too. It’s helpful for children to associate English with an important person like a parent, grandparent or care giver. Have that person speak to the child mostly in English. Enunciate the words carefully. When the child gets frustrated or doesn’t understand, take a break. Get a collection of music and DVDs that are appropriate for the child’s age. Play them (and children’s TV shows) for the child, but use caution, as children tend to watch too much TV. When you are helping the child with daily activities such as dressing, bathing, getting into the car and taking a walk, use the opportunity to ask how things are said in English. Say something like “This is your shoe
