Question:

How can I help my kids learn a foreign language?

Helping Your Kids Learn a Foreign Language

If you want to teach your kids a foreign language, the last thing you want to do is try to get them to sit down with a grammar and a dictionary (especially if they are younger). As adults we develop different strategies for learning and assimilating knowledge, but most of them aren't suitable for learning to speak a foreign language. If you want your kids to speak a foreign language, the best way to start is to get them into an environment where they hear that language spoken on a regular basis. Their natural language learning ability is geared to learning by listening and responding. If your kids are the right age, try getting children's books in that language. There are also lots of fun illustrated books that teach kids vocabulary words in different languages. Try to avoid an approach that requires them to grapple with grammatical concepts and rote memorization as much as possible. Later you can add that sort of thing, but your main goal is to get them started by helping them develop a feel for the language and become comfortable with hearing it, even if their understanding is spotty at first.

Learning Languages Frequently Asked Questions

How do individual learning styles affect how one learns a foreign language.

How do I create an optimal environment for learning languages?

What should I look for if I want to learn a foreign language on my own?

Which is a more effective way to learn a language, traditional classes or self-study?

How do I use a pocket foreign language dictionary?

Do Children Learn Languages Faster Than Adults

Do people have a natural ability for learning languages?

How can I help my kids learn a foreign language?

What are "Immersion" language programs and how effective are they?

How can I teach my kids foreign languages at home more effectively?

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Why do most people fail at learning a new language?

How long will it take before I can speak a new language?

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Should I buy ready-made flash cards or make my own?

How do I use flash cards effectively?

Should I buy a large foreign dictionary or a smaller pocket dictionary?

Should I get a phrase book?

Which vocabulary words should I try to learn first?

How Much Vocabulary Do I Need?

Will knowing a language similar to the one I'm studying be any help?

What are some tricks I can use to help me memorize new vocabulary?

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Can foreign films help me in my language study?

I'd like to practice my language by watching movies but foreign films bore me. What else can I try?

Should I join a foreign conversation group?

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Can I invent a language?

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What is an easy way to build my vocabulary?

What do I read?

What if I make a mistake?

How do I know my spelling is correct?

Is every excercise fit for me?

Do I need to understand my language to be able to listen to it?





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Susan Sayour