Research suggests that in 2018, 43% of the world’s population spoke at least 2 languages. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2019, only 20% of Americans could converse in two or more languages
This number has only increased since then and the number of bilingual children in America is also on the rise. This is because as more and more people gain awareness of the importance of being bilingual, they also wish for their child to be fluent in more than a single language.
Research findings suggest that being fluent in more than one language enhances certain brain functions and sharpens cognitive thinking. Moreover, languages aid in bringing people together as they provide a better understanding of different cultures.
If you want your child to learn a new language, rest assured that there is no age limit to starting. You can have your child learn a new language right from home through online language school, language classes, or even on your own! Here is a short guide on learning languages from home:
Set your language learning goals
We can’t expect to pick up a language one day and be fluent in it the next day. We need to set tangible, achievable, and realistic goals.
So, step one of your language learning journey should be setting goals. Why do you want to learn a new language? Do you have a timeframe in mind? Consider all your language goals and set timelines for yourself.
Writing down your goals has been proven to make you more likely to achieve them. Therefore, write down your goals. Make sure you have short-term goals as well. Short-term goals are essentially your overall goal broken down into smaller, achievable goals.
Moreover, make sure your goals challenge you but not so much that you get too intimidated to even start!
Study smart
Use different techniques and methods to help you memorize the words. For example, using flashcards can help with faster memorization, and focusing on the most common words of the language is a good way to keep yourself motivated.
You can also use the words you’ve learned whilst speaking your native language. The key to learning a new language is familiarizing yourself with it and this is a great way to do just that.
Use creative methods
If you’re finding it difficult to get a hold of a particular word, try to draw out something associated with it! Visualize the object, say the word out loud, use gestures, whatever works for you! You can also listen to music in your selected language to help get a hang over the dialect, grammar, and memorization!
Practice speaking the language often
Aside from learning, practice speaking and reading the language regularly! On a daily basis, converse with someone you know, or even with yourself, in the foreign language using the new words you’ve learned as well as what you already know.
You can watch shows in that language and repeat after the actors, learn about their culture, or get in touch with a native speaker.
Use external resources
If you find yourself struggling with any of these tips, it may be better to use some external sources. You can reach out to online schools for language classes who can help you along on your language-learning journey. This way, an expert will be able to track your progress as well as your weak points and focus on them to make them better.
We are a professional online language school and we aim to make learning a language a smooth and enjoyable process. Our professional online language classes focus on the integral development of your child and we offer a fun, engaging, and inclusive learning environment.
For more details, contact us now for a meeting with the school director.