If you're moving abroad with kids for a substantial amount of time it's pretty important that they learn the language of their new country. Learning the language will help make their lives easier and it will also provide them with a skill for life. When children are younger it's easier for them to learn a new language as they are still learning vocabulary and picking up language skills.
Teaching children of different ages requires different skills. To help give you inspiration to teach your children, regardless of how old they are, we've put together some top tips to get you started.
Teach their new language alongside their native tongue
Some parents worry that they will confuse their children by teaching them two languages at the same time. But studies have shown that most children can separate two different languages by the age of three.
As you introduce new words to their native vocabulary explain what the word means in their new tongue as well. This way, the two languages should develop alongside each other helping your children learn much quicker.
Set a good example – learn the language yourself
Children mimic and copy their elders and people they see in positions of authority. Therefore, as their parents, it's really important to set a good example by speaking the new language yourself. If you can show your children that you can use the language they'll try to copy you and consequently pick up the language themselves.
Use your children's interests to teach them their new language
If you have teenagers, then combining their interests with learning their new language can be really effective. For instance, watching TV shows without subtitles and reading comics and magazines will help them learn. Teenagers are usually motivated by things they find exciting, so try to show them stuff you know they will be interested in to keep them excited.
Make the process fun and keep persevering
Regardless of how old your children are it's important to make the learning process as fun as possible. It's also really important to persevere with the process to ensure that your children reach a standard where they can communicate easily in their new country. Speaking a different language is a skill that will stay with them for life and make it much easier for them to find employment further down the line.
