Learning a language has its set of numerous perks, but learning a language also comes with its own set of setbacks. Sometimes, it can simply be too daunting to start your learning journey. That’s why it can be useful to learn a language as a family.
Learning as a family can keep you motivated and also give you extra practice needed when learning a language. This can cultivate a learning culture where the other members of your family can keep you motivated. Here are six tips to easily build a family culture of language learning:
Tip #1: Set an example
Kids learn best by observation, so it’s important that to cultivate a family culture of language learning, you and the adults lead by example. Speak your desired language among each other, incorporate it into your daily conversations, and not just during “lesson time”.
Ask your child basic questions like about their day in the desired second language, introduce them to cultural aspects of the language.
Tip #2: Use creative means
What can also prove to be fruitful is consumption of media in the desired language. This can include cartoons, music, and literature. The more exposure to the language that your kids have, the more they are inclined towards speaking it.
These creative sources will spark an interest for your child as well as other members of the family in the language that will result in a positive association.
Tip #3: Make it enjoyable
Learning a language as a family shouldn’t be a tiring chore, it should be an enjoyable activity. To do this, incorporate language learning into everyday boring tasks. For example, doing the dishes or long car rides are great opportunities for sing-alongs and little word games in the desired language!
Tip #4: Track your progress by setting goals
One long-term goal of being fluent is not enough. To make language learning less overwhelming for the entire family, set smaller, realistic, and achievable short-term goals. After setting these goals, track your progress to keep yourself motivated.
Tip #5: Reward yourselves for a job well done
A study done by Cornell Researchers in 2018 found that people who received more frequent and immediate rewards in their tasks found more enjoyment and interest in their work.
Reaching a target goal will act like a reward in itself, but you can put additional rewards to maximize motivation. This can also create some friendly family competition which will be a step in the right direction for your learning goals.
Tip #6: Use external resources to track your progress
Now, working as a family will provide you with adequate motivation. It’s important, however, to track your progress using an external resource.
Especially for the kids. That’s where we come in; The Ideal School is a professional online bilingual school that has qualified and experienced teachers who use innovation to teach children in an environment that is safe, challenging, as well as engaging.
We are an online elementary school that prioritizes cross-cultural learning. Whether it’s for the entire core curriculum, or just online language courses, we’re the right fit for your child’s learning needs. Contact us to book a meeting with the school director.
