Promoting Language Learning at Home
Language learning is better when the whole family learns together.
Children are always watching adults and picking up on things we say and do. That is why it is so important to promote and celebrate language learning with your immersion student. There are so many ways that you can promote and celebrate language learning in positive ways for your child!
Celebrate your child’s learning:
It is important for you to demonstrate enthusiasm and pride when your child speaks in the target language, shares a new world they learned, or talks about their experiences in the immersion classroom. Students will be proud of what they are doing if they feel support from their family. Remember that students may be tired during the first few weeks of immersion because of the increased cognitive load. Similarly, it is important to remember that language learning is a process that takes time. Having realistic expectations for your child’s language learning can help you to appropriately celebrate their milestones.
Learn with your child:
The best way to celebrate and promote language learning with your child is to do it yourself! There are a number of language learning apps, websites, YouTube channels, and more which can help you learn the target language your child is learning. Make language learning a family affair and model life-long learning by putting yourself in your child’s shoes.
Enthusiasm is not performance:
Remember that celebration and enthusiasm does not mean putting your child on the spot to perform. Children may be very shy and nervous when it comes to speaking in the target language. Asking them to speak and demonstrate their skills in front of friends and family can have a very negative effect on their willingness to use what they are learning. Instead, celebrate when your child comes home and offers up a new word. Ask your child to teach you what they learned that day.