3 Tips To Get Kids Interested in Learning Languages
Kids are inherently interested in learning new concepts and subjects. Their brains retain information quickly, and they’re eager to digest even more. Children are the best learners. However, they often lose interest in a subject when the work becomes challenging, especially in new languages. Here are three tips to get kids interested in learning languages to better hold their attention and promote success.
Introduce the Culture
Learning a language involves more than just verbs and vocabulary—there’s an entirely rich culture attached to any spoken word! Spanish, in particular, is spoken throughout so many different countries and communities, each with its own customs and traditions. It’s important to teach kids elements of culture congruently with the language itself. This gives them a colorful visualization to associate with their studies, and it further piques their interest.
Play Games
No matter your age, we all love playing games! However, no one loves educational games more than young children. Try combining daily lessons with interactive activities to reinforce key concepts and vocabulary. This can be something simple, like a Jeopardy-type exercise, or something physical, like Spanish Simon Says. Along with the game, the allure of rewards and prizes keeps kids captivated. Additionally, activities activate different parts of the brain that remain dormant during lecture-based learning.
Group Projects
As children get older, it’s important to have group-related exercises. Primarily, this prepares them for professional careers later on in life. This allows kids to reinforce information together with additional perspectives and brainpower. Try creating assignments that are group-oriented, and allow children to collaborate uninterrupted for 15–20 minutes. This self-learning style is highly successful, especially in second language classes.
Use these three tips to get kids interested in learning languages and prepare them for further success down the line. Remember, early language education is extremely important for brain development and career opportunities later in life. We provide comprehensive Spanish curriculum resources here at Sonrisas Spanish for all your teaching needs!