Some parents enroll their children in bilingual kindergartens, hoping they will learn abundant spoken English daily. Let's hear advice from a preschool English teacher on learning the language.
English learning is now widespread. Even infants are often prompted by mothers to say "mummy, daddy, bye-bye." Some parents also send children to bilingual kindergartens, hoping they will acquire extensive spoken English daily.All these efforts aim to give children an early start and a head start in English learning. However, as an early childhood English teacher, I want to remind parents not to blindly push children into learning English too early. Instead, they should base decisions on the child's actual situation and pay attention to the following points:
1. Learning English early isn't necessarily better for young children
Every child's growth, development, and receptiveness differ. Therefore, parents should choose the timing for English learning based on their child's readiness.Many children today learn both pinyin and English simultaneously, which often leads to confusion. Therefore, it's best to wait until children develop sufficient discrimination skills before introducing English. Most importantly, follow the child's wishes—never force it. If a child shows genuine interest, learning becomes effortless and effective.
II. Create a Rich Language Environment
Both teachers and parents should possess solid, accurate English fundamentals and standard, fluent speaking skills. They must also establish diverse, engaging language environments where young learners can practice and apply the language.For example: Use methods children enjoy, such as picture-based storytelling, singing, games, and role-playing, to guide their English learning. This also helps cultivate their interest in the language. At the same time, parents must be careful not to give half-hearted responses to their children. Inconsistencies between what parents and teachers teach can cause significant confusion for young learners.
III. Persistence is Key in Language Learning
Language acquisition is a long-term, arduous process. The worst approach to English learning is "three days fishing, two days drying nets." Young children often lose interest quickly, making parental supervision and encouragement essential. It's better for a child to start learning later than to begin and give up after just a few days.
IV. Avoid Impatient Pressure That Burdens Children Psychologically
Many parents anxiously ask teachers: "What English have they been learning lately? Why doesn't our child speak a single word of English at home?" Clearly, parents frequently inquire about what English their child learns at kindergarten, whether they can speak it, or what English songs they sing.Children may be reluctant to speak, or still in the familiarization stage where they can't articulate clearly. However, persistent questioning from parents will gradually diminish their interest in learning English and erode their confidence, making them increasingly reluctant to speak.
V. "Listening" precedes "Speaking"
When children learn English in early childhood, the focus should not be on rushing them to "speak." Instead, cultivate their interest in "listening" first, adhering to the principle of "listening before speaking."The sequence "listening, speaking, reading, writing" aligns with the natural progression of second language acquisition in young learners. Alexander, author of New Concept English, emphasizes that listening is the foundational step in mastering English. "Listening precedes speaking" reflects a fundamental characteristic of children's language development and helps build their confidence in learning English.Young children require a silent period of language absorption before they can apply it. Therefore, parents and teachers should not overly emphasize getting children to speak English. Instead, provide them with more English audio materials for young learners, create an everyday English-learning environment, and patiently wait, observe, and guide.
VI. Avoid Neglecting Other Areas of Learning
Many parents focus intensely on achieving outstanding results in their child's English learning, investing significant time and effort accordingly. However, a child's development should be well-rounded. Do not prioritize English learning at the expense of other educational aspects.
In summary, parents and teachers should first understand and observe the child, then strive to create a favorable language environment and identify suitable learning methods and pathways. Simultaneously, they must focus on the child's holistic development and ensure English learning remains enjoyable.