Language is one of the most important things that children learn. It is the key to communication and helps children interact with everyone around them. Despite knowing and being fluent in their mother tongue, learning a second language has many benefits for kids. It can improve their cognitive skills, help them succeed in school, and open up new cultural experiences.
Moreover, learning a new language at a young age is always useful in life. Children are like sponges and can pick up a new language quickly and easily. That’s why Indian schools in Dubai have a dedicated language learning program that encourages children to indulge in various languages from a very young age.
Here is the ultimate checklist that parents and teachers can follow to advocate language development:
1. Encourage communication between adults and children:
Parents can encourage language development in children by regularly engaging in conversation with them. It will help children to learn new words and phrases and practice them in conversation. Additionally, they can ask questions encouraging children to describe their thoughts and experiences using that language.
2. Promote a positive attitude towards language learning:
Children need to see that adults value language learning. Adults can do this by talking to them about the importance of learning new languages and showing excitement when they use new words or phrases. Additionally, adults can provide opportunities for children to use their new language skills in meaningful ways, such as – reading books together in the new language. CBSE schools promote teacher-student activities for language learning to set an example and create more interest.
3. Encourage the use of language in daily activities:
Parents can encourage children to use language in every day activities by talking to them about their actions. For example, parents can describe what they are cooking for dinner or where they are going on a walk. Additionally, they can ask questions that require children to use language to answer, such as “what did you do at school today?”, “How was lunch?” or “what would you like to do later in the evening?”.
4. Model correct usage of language:
One of the best ways for children to learn the correct language usage is by observing adults using it correctly. Adults can model proper usage of grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. Additionally, adults can explain new words or phrases and offer corrections when children make mistakes.
5. Encourage the use of a variety of language learning materials:
Adults can encourage children to use various language-learning materials, such as books, comics, puzzles, and games. It will help children to learn new words and phrases and to practice using them in different contexts. Additionally, adults can use other materials to teach children various aspects of language, such as grammar or pronunciation.
Final Thoughts:
In a globalized society, being bilingual also gives children a huge advantage. They will be able to communicate with a broader range of people and better understand different cultures. Making language learning fun and interactive is the best way to help kids succeed. With time, your child will be on their way to becoming bilingual or multilingual.
