The colonial history of the world and current socio-economic situation have made english one of the most basic skills that children need to master. Although this is sad for people not native to an English-speaking country, we are not here to discuss the linguistic power dynamics of the world.
The reality of the world is that speaking english is very important and ensures how well a person might do in the future. Therefore, if you are a parent of a child in their formative years, then this article is for you.
Here, we will highlight some of the reasons why you should take special care in developing your child’s linguistic skills.
How To Improve Your Child’s English Literacy
Improving your child’s english speaking capabilities is not a linear process in any way. It is a challenging process that requires considerable time and effort. Another thing, this is heavily dependent on your child as well.
Therefore, consider seeking professional help from a reputable organization, such as English Enrichment Singapore or its equivalent, to provide your child with the comprehensive support they need. This will not only help you complete the task, but it will also ensure that he or she receive a focused approach to help.
With that out of the way, here are some ways you can improve your child’s english vocabulary. Here we go!
Step #1 Labeling It Up
One of the easiest and most useful ways of introducing words to your child is through labels. Labels are ingenious as they stimulate a child’s visual and cognitive sensibilities. Therefore, please label everything in your house.
However, please refrain from labeling things that do not come into contact with your child. Only label things that your child interacts with. Start with simple words like table, chair, board, fan, etc.
Once your child starts showing progress, amp it up and introduce complex words. Follow a gradual process, and you will see your child being receptive.
Step #2 Use Magnetic Letters
Spelling will be the biggest vocabulary challenge that your child will face in their English-speaking journey. One way you can help your child in this area is to help them understand the fundamentals of a word.
Since English is not a phonetic language, we often do not have the opportunity to understand each letter in a word. Therefore, introducing visual cues to your child for words can enhance the overall understanding.
Buy magnetic letters that your toddler can use on metallic surfaces. Encourage them to create random words or their favorite words. Eventually, you will see progress.
Step #3 Be A Yapper
It may sound silly, but yapping can help your child pick up words faster. Children learn best through auditory and visual cues. Magnetic letters provide visual cues, but you need to step up to help your child with the auditory cues.
Talk to your child directly and indirectly in english. If you have nothing else to do, just keep talking to yourself when your child is in earshot. Think of yourself as a commentator. Therefore, act accordingly.
Step #4 Ask Questions
Learning english is a trial-and-error business. Therefore, you must encourage your toddler to go through that process. The best way to help your toddler speak English is by asking questions and encouraging them to answer in English.
Start by asking simple questions. Avoid asking complex questions that may make your toddler feel cornered. The trick is to start slow, and you will realise that your toddler or child is speaking or answering in English.
Step #5 Make Learning A Game
Do not make learning a grueling process. Instead, turn the ship around and make the learning process more engaging, akin to a game. In other words, reward your child if they achieve a milestone.
This system of rewarding good work is crucial and instrumental in developing your child’s moral compass. However, the punishments also need to be fun and not draconian in any way. Do not hit your child in any way.
That Is It
Learning english might be one of the basic skill sets a child must master early on, but it should not be confused with intelligence. We can say that english speaking skills are not equivalent to intelligence. Therefore, avoid berating or making your child feel inferior in any way.
