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Children who learn to speak more than one language will, as adults, be able to use their bilingualism to advance their careers. Their experience of the world and its many cultures will also be enriched. If your child is a nonnative speaker of English, learning the language is a gradual process. To improve their English language skills and comprehension, work with your child care center and use these tips.

Reading With Bilingual Children

1.  Read Out Loud

Make reading out loud in English a daily practice. Use a happy voice when a character is excited and a sad voice when a character is feeling blue. Take extra time pronouncing unfamiliar words and point to applicable illustrations as you turn pages. Reading “cat” and pointing to the corresponding image will help your child learn new English words.

2. Use Dual-Language Books

child careDual-language books display English and a second language on each page. They’re designed to reinforce the English version of common words and expressions. Get recommendations for age-appropriate dual-language books from your child care center. Your child care provider may have loads of experience reading with English language learners and helping native speakers of English learn new languages as well.

3. Watch Companion Videos

Dual-language books with companion videos reinforce word meanings and pronunciations. Watching these or other appropriate English language videos together will keep your child engaged. Children model their behavior on their parents. If you’re excited about learning a new language, your child will be, too.

4. Consider Tutoring

Tutors will provide suggestions for additional learning at home as well as giving your children one-on-one attention. They will help students learn English using rhyming and repetition games, children’s magazines, and child-friendly bilingual websites and apps.

5. Give Positive Reinforcement

Refrain from criticizing your child if they lapse into their native tongue or make mistakes. Praise them for trying to pronounce difficult words. Every child learns at a different rate. If you’re consistently enthusiastic about their progress, your young one will master English and take joy in their accomplishments.

 

Big Blue Early Childhood Center provides child care for children aged 6 weeks to 4 years old as well as before-and-after school programs for kids who are between 5 and 10. Based in Lexington, KY, their child-to-teacher ratio is low. They’re able to provide lots of one-on-one attention that promotes self-esteem and a healthy interest in learning. Call (859) 299-9277 today to inquire about child care, or find answers to frequently asked questions online.

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