Helping Your Child Learn a New Language

The ability to speak more than one language is great for broadening one’s horizons, in terms of travel, socialisation and even career opportunities. With that said, try not to overlook your child’s language lessons at school; they are more beneficial than you might think. In fact, you could take it one step further by looking for ways you can help your child with their learning at home. Here are some tips from a sixth form in Hampshire.

Speak in the Same Language

If your child is learning a language that you already know, you should converse with them in that language. Practising at home will help your child feel more confident. However, don’t worry if you’re not fluent in the language they’re trying to learn as there are other ways you can help them.

Use Flash Cards

Encourage your child to write words and phrases in English on one side of a flashcard, and the foreign translation on the other side. You can hold up the card so that they can only see one side and recite the translation to you. 

Practise Little and Often

Try and encourage your child to practise their language in regular short bursts so that they can retain it. If they practise once a week for a couple of hours, they will likely forget much of what they have learnt by the following week, so little and often is the best motto. 

Use Labels

To help your child with their vocabulary, allow them to stick labels up around the house in the language they are trying to learn. Lots of people find it easier to remember things when there are visual cues attached, so it’s worth giving it a go. Stick post-it notes up on the fridge, their wardrobe, the front door etc. Eventually, your child will be able to incorporate these words into full sentences. 

Watch Foreign Films

If your child is learning Spanish, try and find some Spanish films to watch together. You can put the subtitles on until your child becomes more proficient. It will help them to immerse themselves in the language they’re trying to learn and hear it spoken in normal conversations.

Use Technology

There are lots of apps and other online tools, such as interactive games, that can help people learn new languages, so try and help your child find appropriate options. Speak to their teachers for some recommendations if you’re struggling.