Teaching children English from scratch. Learning English with a toddler at an early age

In the modern world, knowledge of English is required everywhere. Teaching a foreign language begins at a very early age in kindergarten and continues at school. However, this may not be enough to fully master all the skills and become fluent in another language. Therefore, parents often ask the question: where to start learning English for a child? Teaching methods and strategies differ according to age.

English for kids 3-4 years old

Many parents want their child to speak English as soon as possible. But the strategy "the sooner the better" does not work in this case. Experienced teachers advise to start teaching a child a new language no earlier than his native speech is formed.

That is why it is impossible to unequivocally answer the question: at what age to start learning English? After all, the ability to speak at least a little in their native language develops in everyone in different ways.

Where to begin

At 3-4 years old, children know the name of some objects and can count to 10. At this point, you can connect a second language. It is worth starting on your own at home, since courses do not always make sense, especially at home in a familiar environment, the child will not get lost and will feel calmer.

Even if mom and dad do not speak English, this is not a problem, since there are many materials with audio and video accompaniment. Plus, helping your child is a good reason to start learning English yourself.

Children 3-4 years old are difficult to get interested in studying, so classes should be relaxed, preferably in a playful way. For this, songs, reading fairy tales, and games are perfect.

Songs

Songs, as well as poems, are easier to remember, so you won't have to memorize them for a long time. But how much use: memory and pronunciation are trained, the child is carried away, and remembers new words.

Even if the baby does not delve into the meaning of words, he will learn to perceive a foreign speech by ear, and in the subconscious mind, certain phrases and words will surely be deposited.

Typically, there are also special children's songs to learn the alphabet, numbers, basic vocabulary or expressions.

Fairy tales

At this age, children still do not know how to read, but this does not mean that you need to give up fairy tales in a foreign language. Books of this genre are always accompanied by illustrations that will interest the child. In the course of reading, you can point to individual pictures, and name the objects and characters that are depicted on them.

Use audio recordings with text-to-speech whenever possible. Another option is fairy tales in video format. The advantages are that they are shorter than simple cartoons and don't get boring quickly.

Rapunzel in English

Cinderella

Rumpelshtitskin

Games

Now even children can easily manage gadgets - smartphones and tablets. And to make the time spent playing the games useful, install applications in English or use English-language sites (https://learnenglishkids.britishcouncil.org/fun-games).

For active children who cannot sit still, outdoor games in English are suitable.

"Simon says".

The facilitator says: "Simon says ... stand up" (jump, sit down, touch your lips). Participants should only perform those commands before which the introductory phrase "Simon says" was sounded. If a participant performs a command without this phrase, he is eliminated from the game.

Confusion

The facilitator calls one part of the body while touching another. For example, says Lips (lips), but points to the ear. Players must touch the part of the body shown by the leader. In the same way, you can study the actions - the players must perform the voiced commands, and not the perfect action (the presenter said Sit down - sit down - and he jumped, the players must repeat the actions of the presenter).

English for children 5-7 years old

At preschool age, children are more conscious about learning, but it is still difficult to interest them, and activities similar to school lessons will not work.

However, the task can be complicated, and involve active learning of words with the help of cards, simple dialogues, cartoons. You can also optionally take a simple textbook designed specifically for young children. At the age of 5-7, children begin to learn to read, and reading in Russian can be combined with reading in a foreign language.

Vocabulary

Words are the foundation of language learning. Therefore, the study of words should be given more attention in the initial stages.

For the successful assimilation of new vocabulary, it is important to make English a part of everyday life, since only regular repetition helps to consolidate everything learned.

In addition, you need to use as many ways of perceiving information as possible. There are 4 types in total:

• visual (visual),
• auditory (by ear),
• sound reproduction (repeat after the speaker),
• tactile (handwritten).

Experienced teachers believe that the key to successful language acquisition is the use of all methods of perception. The child sees the word in front of his eyes, listens to its pronunciation, repeats it aloud and writes the word on paper. In this situation, different areas of the brain are involved and information is absorbed much faster.

But where to get the words to study, and what words in English does a child need to know? Easy dialogues, reading short stories, cartoons and games are great ways to expand your vocabulary.

Do not forget that you need to use different activities so that the child does not lose interest and does not get bored.

Dialogues

Simple dialogues will help you remember everyday expressions that will come in handy in everyday life. In addition, you can use them in everyday life for communication.

Ask your child to pass a plate (to pass a plate), or to put away toys (to pick up toys) - simple everyday activities, but already learned a few new words. Examples of phrases for different occasions can be found

Cartoons

Simple cartoons are the first listening exercises for your child. The characters speak slowly and clearly, use simple phrases that will definitely come in handy for communication.

Even if in the early stages the child will not catch the exact meaning by ear, but do not worry. Children have excellent language intuition. They may not understand the meaning of the word, but they perfectly understand everything by intonation, emotions, movements.

In addition, children can watch their favorite cartoon several times. So a couple of new learned words are guaranteed.

Games

Games also remain a relevant way to diversify activities. It can be:

• games on a computer and smartphone;
• board games;
• outdoor games;
• group or pair games.

If you are learning English with your child on your own, then you can play together.

Detective game

The child leaves the room, at this time you hide an object. The point is to find the hidden thing by asking questions about its possible location. This game will help you learn the names of furniture items and practice the use of prepositions.

Edible - inedible

The popular and well-known game can be used to learn English words. The rules are simple: the leader throws the ball to the participants, while naming different objects. If he names something edible, the ball must be caught, and if it is inedible, discarded.

English for younger students

English lessons in general education institutions begin from grade 2. In elementary grades, children cannot yet solve all problems on their own, unlike students in grade 5. These are the features of psychology.

Therefore, even if a child is taught a language at school, you need to help him not only with homework, but also in developing reading, listening and writing skills in English.

Reading

Reading is a very multifaceted aspect that can be approached from different angles. For example, reading can be intense and extensive. The first type involves working on the text - parsing grammatical structures, searching for the meanings of unfamiliar words and their transcriptions, etc. Extensive reading does not require so much effort, and is intended to train reading fluency and passive memorization of words.

In lower grades (grades 2-4), you can use both methods, but only in moderation.

Grammar

Mastering grammar is the most difficult process, since it is much more difficult for children to understand the logic of a foreign language. Therefore, for this it is worth purchasing a textbook in which all the rules and procedure for submitting the material will be systematized.

There are several types of textbooks - authentic (in a foreign language) and inauthentic (in Russian). The first option is not recommended if you are learning English from scratch. Many argue that the use of English-language materials will help to "immerse" more in the language environment. This is true, but it is not necessary at the very beginning. The main task is to understand the use of the rules, and it is much easier to explain them through the native language.

Of course, there are a large number of textbooks, and they are all different, from simple exercise books to huge reference books with detailed explanations. There is no universal method of choice, everything is determined individually. You can only choose after trying the textbook in action.

In addition to textbooks, you can use video tutorials for children. This way information is perceived much easier than with books.

If you have problems understanding or explaining specific rules, you can read more about some of them:

Tests

Tests are a good way to check how well a child has learned about a topic. This will make it clear which aspects of the study are more difficult, and what needs to be paid more attention. In this way, the teaching plan can be adjusted, and the lessons will become more effective.

Tests can be thematic or divided into levels:

Games and sites

Even for preschool children, it is sometimes useful to distract from serious activities and spend time with interest. To do this, you can use various English-language sites with cartoons and games. They will help you not only have a good time, but also expand your vocabulary, improve your grammar and spelling knowledge.

https://learnenglishkids.britishcouncil.org/ru - educational materials in a light entertaining form, cartoons, exercises, etc.

https://www.funbrain.com/games - site with games on various topics

https://www.theproblemsite.com/word-games - site for expanding vocabulary

1. Schoolchildren and preschoolers need to develop all skills at once in parallel: reading, writing, speaking, listening and vocabulary. However, some of them will take more time and effort, such as speaking and writing. These skills are considered active and more difficult to master.
   Combine activities so that the child does not lose interest, and use new knowledge and vocabulary to the maximum in practice.

1. In no case should a child be scolded for mistakes. This way you can discourage any desire to continue learning. Mistakes are only an indicator that a particular topic needs to be given a little more attention and knowledge gaps should be filled.
2. Motivate your child. Learning a new skill is easier when there is interest in it. Therefore, the task of parents is to try to make classes varied. At the same time, do not forget about rewards.
3. Classes should be regular. You shouldn't abandon them for a long time, even during the holidays. It is not necessary to repeat a large amount of information at once, it is enough to repeat a few words a day.

Consultation for parents "How to start learning English at home with children?"

Many parents would like to start teaching their children English at home on their own, but do not know how to start. If your English is not perfect, this is not a reason to give up studying. The main thing here is your enthusiasm and support.
Don't worry if your child doesn't repeat or memorize words right away. He needs time to understand, remember and apply them in the future. Be patient and your child will start speaking English words in their free time.
Create an exercise routine.
Choose a time to practice. It is best if it will be several short-term sessions (10-15 minutes) during the day. You can gradually increase the time of classes, as the child gets older, more diligent. Let the classes be short-lived, but interesting, fun, informative. Try to do certain things at the same time every day. Children feel comfortable and confident when they know what to expect. For example, you play an English game every day after kindergarten or school, or you read an English story to your child before bed.
If you have free space at home, create in it corner of english where you will store everything related to learning English, such as books, games, DVDs or things that kids have done.
Play.

Children learn easily when they are having fun. Picture cards are the best way to learn words. There are many games that you can play using cards. You can also play English games on your computer.
Use everyday situations.
The advantage of learning English at home is that you can use everyday situations and real things at home to practice the language freely. For example: talking about clothes, when the child is getting dressed, or when you put away toys. Study the food vocabulary. When you go to the store, give your child a list of things to find (use flashcards or words based on age). Repeat the words as you go through your purchases at home.
Read fairy tales, discuss.
Children love brightly colored books with attractive illustrations. Look at the pictures together and call them in English. Then ask your child to show you what you called “Where is the cat?” ... Ask your child to describe the subject using simple adjectives “a big cat”. Read a short story in English, you can pick up a poem in English, consisting of the simple phrases “Little Mouse, Little Mouse, where is your house? I’m a poor Mouse, I have no house ”. Ask your child what familiar words he heard when you read the story to him. By listening to English speech, the child will learn the sounds and rhythm of the English language.
Use songs.
Songs is a really effective way to learn new words and improve pronunciation. Action songs are especially good for very young children as they can participate even if they can't sing the song yet. The meaning of the words in a song can be shown with movement.
What about grammar?
Young children have no strong need to learn grammar rules; instead, you need to train them to listen and use different grammatical structures in context, such as “Have got” when you talk about someone's appearance, or, “Must / mustn't” when about their school rules. Listening to grammar used in context from an early age will help your child use it fluently and correctly as they get older.
Older children are more interested in learning English with their siblings or other family members. You can think of a situation that requires a dialogue between children, organize a competition or role play.
What words and phrases should you learn first?
Consider your child's interests and personality, decide which topics to explore, and let your child help you choose. You can start with some of these themes:
numbers (1-10; 10-20; 20-100)
colors
adjectives (e.g. big, small, tall, happy, sad, tired)
body
toys
clothes
animals (e.g. pets, wild animals)
food
It is also important for your child to get used to the English time schedule. Use the same phrases with your child every time, for example, “English time! Let’s sit down. Thank you; Can I have… ?; Where is… ?; Point to ...; What color is it ?; It's ...; I like ...; I don’t like .... This is a… ”.
As you teach your child, remember that the key is to relax, have fun, and make learning English an enjoyable experience for you and your child.

The ancient Greek philosopher Aristippus argued that children should be taught what will be useful to them when they grow up. Thousands of years have passed, and this wisdom is still relevant today: each parent tries to make a feasible contribution to the future of his child. We want to help you in this matter, so we have compiled for you a selection of 9 great sites for learning English for kids.

We want to make a reservation right away: although our selection consists of sites for children, it can also be used by adults. Such sites are especially valuable for those who learn English at the Beginner and Elementary levels: all information is presented in an accessible way and is practiced in practical exercises. Sometimes it can be nice to feel like a child!

1. study-languages-online.com

The first resource we offer is a Russian-language site. It is extremely simple, it will be convenient for a child who is just beginning to master the basics of the English language. You can teach your child the English alphabet using the exercises on this resource. The name of each letter is voiced and written in Russian letters. Here you can learn words by topic. Each word has a translation and sound recording, so ask your child to repeat the words after the speaker. After learning the words, it is proposed to perform several different exercises to consolidate the material. For schoolchildren, a block of grammar learning is presented on the site. It should be said that there is still not enough theoretical knowledge and explanations, but you can practice a lot on the exercises.

2.teremoc.ru

Another Russian-language site for learning English for children. Follow the link to find dozens of educational games. So, the child will learn the alphabet, learn to count in English, and also acquire a small vocabulary. Students will not only learn new words, but also memorize their spelling, so that your child can show off their knowledge in class. In addition, such games are useful for developing the child's memory.

3.freddiesville.com

This site is presented entirely in English, but if you know the basics of English, you can easily figure it out and help your child study. The resource is a storehouse of simple visual video lessons for children. All site materials are free. Go to the Lessons tab, which contains educational videos, broken down by difficulty levels: from lessons for preschoolers with simple words to short dialogues for older children. Pronunciation is clear and correct, the characters in the video speak at a normal pace, so that the child will have time to repeat after them. The Games tab contains dozens of various colorful online games that will help your child consolidate their knowledge in a fun way. On the Worksheets tab, you will find a variety of training materials that are available for printing. We also recommend using these exercises: the child will be happy to solve crosswords and at the same time memorize new words.

4.starfall.com

Although this site is in English, it is easy to use. Even if you don't speak English very well, it will still be intuitive for you where to go and what to do. The first tab contains exercises for learning the alphabet: the child will learn letters and simple words that begin with these letters. The second tab is exercises for learning the rules of reading: the child will learn to correctly read various combinations of letters. The remaining two tabs provide short, illustrated reading texts. Absolutely all words on the site are voiced, the child can listen to their correct pronunciation. Bright design and interesting simple stories will appeal to all children.

5.childrensbooksonline.org

This resource for learning English for kids features free scanned books and audiobooks. On the Books with Audio tab, you can read and listen to a book at the same time. The text is dubbed by a professional speaker, so you can repeat the words after it, trying to copy the correct pronunciation. There is also a convenient breakdown of books by difficulty levels. If your child is just starting to learn English, start with the Pre-Reader and Very Early Readers tab, there are very simple books with a minimum of text, as well as books for learning the alphabet and numbers in English. And if you want to improve your knowledge, refer to the books on the Adult Readers tab, here are more complex texts for an adult audience of readers.

6.funenglishgames.com

The exercises on this site are suitable for older children and adults who have reached the Elementary - Pre-Intermediate level. Tasks are more complex than on previous resources and less colorful, but they are conveniently divided by topic. So, you can develop your reading skills with exercises from the Reading Games section, improve your grammar in the Grammar Games tab, learn to write simple sentences in Writing Games, expand your vocabulary in Word Games and improve your spelling with Spelling Games.

7.cambridgeenglish.org

The site contains songs and exercises to increase the child's vocabulary. Interactive tasks are simple and understandable even for those who have just started to learn the language, and bright pictures will help to quickly memorize new words. All exercises are grouped into three difficulty levels. Invite your child to start with the simplest and gradually work your way up to the final level. At the same time, periodically ask the child to return to the first level so that he can repeat the words.

8.multimedia-english.com

This resource features a variety of videos for kids. Almost every video has either embedded subtitles or text from the recording. If your child is just starting to learn the basics of English, go to the Basic Real English tab, there you will find the simplest videos with the basics. Good vocabulary training videos can be found under the Vocabulary tab. The Lessons tab has video tutorials on learning English for kids, and Cartoons and Songs have cartoons and songs in English.

9.englishclub.com

This site contains exercises for learning simple English words and tests for them. The child will learn to count in English, learn the alphabet, colors, shapes, etc. Also on this page you will find simple stories in English that you can take apart with your child. Frequently used words are used in the text, so you can write out unfamiliar vocabulary and invite your child to study it.

Now you know 9 great sites for learning English for kids. With your child, choose the ones he likes and help him chew on the granite of English science. Do not forget about your English: on children's websites you can learn a lot of useful vocabulary for beginners, and learning the language with your child will be doubly interesting!

Who among us, parents, has not dreamed that our child would know English. And we are ready to make every effort to make sure he learns English. First, we send him to a kindergarten, where they teach English, then we take him to a linguistic school, send him to private schools and hire tutors. But these actions do not always bring us the desired result. These actions do not guarantee that your child will enjoy learning English. It is necessary to understand that learning English should start at home, not in class... Only parents can instill a love of the English language. Not a single teacher can interest a kid in English as much as mom and dad. No one knows better than parents what can interest their child. Especially when it comes in the form of a fun game.

Learning English should be a game for you to play with your little one. This joint communication of yours should bring mutual pleasure. It happens that due to everyday worries, we do not have much time at our disposal to be with the child. However, nevertheless, we can give the child an amazing opportunity - to spend time with benefit and be together. I think this is quite feasible if you wish. You may well be able to distract yourself at least half an hour a week from the kitchen, washing, ironing and spend this time with your baby. I assure you your child will appreciate it. It's so much fun learning a language together! And never let the TV take your place in your child's life.

When to start learning English?

Most moms and dads are concerned about: at what age can a child be taught English... Many language schools start teaching English from 3 years old... Previously, this age is not recommended, since the child should form a speech in his native language.

You have many ways to help your child to learn English.

The main thing is that you have a great desire to study together.

Introducing your child to a different culture will be a great start in language learning. Tell your child that there are many countries on earth where people speak different languages. You can do it in the form of a fairy tale or in the form of a game. For example: “A bunny came to visit us from England. He can only speak English. "

Or you can start playing the mother and daughter game, but this time the dolls will live in England and speak only English. Through this game, the child can be introduced to the name of words such as:

Mother-mom,father-dad,sister-sister,brother-brother,grandmother-grandmother,grandfather-grandfather,uncle-uncle,aunt-aunt,cousin- cousin,niece-niece,nephew-nephew.

A rhyme song will help to fix new words in memory Thefingerfamily(finger family)

Father finger, where are you?

Father finger, father finger, where are you?

Mommy finger, Mommy finger, where are you?
Here I am, here I am. How do you do?

Brother finger, Brother finger, where are you?
Here I am, here I am. How do you do?

Sister finger, Sister finger, where are you?
Here I am, here I am. How do you do?

Baby finger, Baby finger, where are you?
Here I am, here I am. How do you do?

Also, with the help of the game of "mothers and daughters" you can voice situations from the life of the family (breakfast, lunch, evening tea, table setting, conversation at the table, help around the house, and much more) in more detail about this in the next article.

So if you want to help your child learn English, try to fit the following 10 rules into your daily life. And I am sure you will see the desired result soon.

1) Do English part your daily life.

Sing, read and play with your child in English whenever you want. Don't limit yourself to a time frame. Read a rhyme at the dinner table, sing an English song in the bathroom, watch an English cartoon together, and read a bedtime story. Think of learning English as part of your game, not as a lesson. Singing songs, reading books and watching cartoons in English are the most fun and important things you can do with your baby while learning English. The more your little one hears English, the easier it will be for him to learn English.

2) Watch cartoons, TV shows for children in English.

If a child is watching Disney TV, you can draw the child's attention to the fact that the main characters of the cartoon speak English. You can chat with your little one about what's happening on the screen, but try to do it in English. And it doesn't matter that you yourself do not know many words in English. We all learned in school the names of animals and action verbs, such as: run-run, jump-jump, fly-fly, can-be able, smile-smile, cry-cry.

3) Read the story in English in the evening.

Most parents read a bedtime story to their children. Why not read a fairy tale in English or look through a children's dictionary with vivid illustrations?

4) inspire your child

Show an interest in learning English with your child. Provide support, inspiration and motivation.
This is the most important point. When you show interest in how your child learns English, you show interest in him or her. Your child needs your approval, support, and encouragement. Your reaction to his achievements in the language is very important for him. If you want your child to learn English, you need to teach them to feel proud of their accomplishments. Encourage him by saying that you are proud of him. Ask about how the lessons went (if the child is learning the language in a children's studio).

Keep your toddler active while playing to create a communicative environment.

5) Do not criticize every child's mistake, focus better on his achievements.

This is one of the most common mistakes parents make. Very often I hear parents criticizing their children who really try to speak English. DO NOT discourage your child learn English... It is necessary to correct mistakes so as not to offend the child in any way. After all, he transfers the assessment of his actions to the assessment of himself as a person. Focusing on mistakes can discourage any interest in English classes. First of all, you are evaluating the child's success, not his shortcomings. Try to keep him feeling successful. Even the smallest victory must be seen and appreciated. After all, interest in learning a language is lost when the feeling of success disappears.

Motivation plays a key role in learning a foreign language. Make it interesting and fun for your child to learn English.

6) Maintain your child's interest in English

The best thing you can do to help your child learn English is to make the process fun. Your child should be sure that learning English is a fun and exciting game with mom. Reinforce your interest in English with a variety of games. Find and learn some English games such as: alphabet games, lotto games, finger games... They will be ideal for beginners to learn the language. Learning a language is not a problem for a kid. The most important thing is to interest him. The child will be interested in classes in which he draws, sings, talks and moves a lot.

7) In learning a language, it is important not to "push" on your child

If for some reason your child has no desire to learn a language, then don't insist. Try to postpone the session for a specific time. If a child feels pressure from you when learning a language, then this will only have a negative effect.

8) Talk to your baby in English.

If your English is good, then try to talk to your baby in English more often. Even short phrases: “ I love you", Or the commands" come here"(Come here) or" sit down"(Sit down)," give me" (give me) " find”(Find) is a great start. Now your child perceives all information visually and by ear, therefore, the more often he hears words and expressions already familiar to him, the faster he will remember their pronunciation. Do not forget that children are very fond of imitating; so take some time for your little one and practice saying the words you want him to remember. Your little one may not always be able to pronounce the words correctly, but over time, you will succeed.

And one more tip is better to translate the meanings of words to kids with the help of pictures.

At the age of three, the child has the ability to listen, which he gradually loses with age. The more a child hears English, the easier it is for him to remember it. By becoming accustomed to listening to English, it will be easier for him to understand and follow instructions during an English lesson at school.

9) Kids get bored quickly

If you see that the child has lost interest in the task, do not insist on continuing. Better to take a break, and then return to the previous task, provided that the child wants to do it. Make your lessons colorful and varied.

10) make your English classes regular

The most important rule in learning English is to play English regularly. Otherwise, all your efforts will be in vain.

Many parents have found their own successful way of teaching their children English. They chose a certain time to play English with the baby. For example, every Wednesday you can talk with your baby in English, watch cartoons, whatever you want, the main thing is that all this is in English. It doesn't matter if you choose a certain time to play English or do it when you have a free minute. The main thing is to do it regularly.

And remember: in no case should a child be forced to study in English, at first he just has to hear it and watch it, like a fun game in which he wants to participate with his mother.