Today, raising a bilingual child is a hot topic among many parents, and Spanish is by far the most popular foreign language for children to learn. Previous studies have shown that bilingual employees earn 20% more per hour on average than monolingual employees. There are also many cultural benefits to learning a second language as well.
The earlier you introduce your kids to a foreign language, the better, and parents should try to start lessons before the age of five years whenever possible. While that might seem premature, very young children are actually far, far better at learning new languages than even the smartest adults. If you cannot find a dual language preschool or secure admission to an academy that offers preschool Spanish lessons, there are still options. If you’re interested in fun Spanish lessons for preschoolers, then here are a few things to keep in mind:
Something to touch or hold
For the first eight years, children are naturally acquiring language skills through imitation, repetition, songs, and games. That’s why preschool Spanish lessons need to provide opportunities to hold and touch objects that relate to the words kids are learning. You can also use these objects in games and learning activities that improve exchange from one kid to another.
Physical movements
Spanish curriculum lessons for preschoolers should include actions performed during the learning process. Matching words to actions has been proven to improve the language-learning process immensely. For instance, songs and simple movements will help capture the child’s attention, which enhances their grasp of new words and their memory. It can start with simple games, followed by more complex ones when the kids are ready.
Stories at home
While enrolling children in preschool spanish lessons should remain a viable option, you should also include some homeschooling as well. A homeschool Spanish curriculum doesn’t have to involve time-consuming lessons, but should instead center around fun Spanish story books. These stories will make learning a new language fun, and reinforce the lessons they’ve received at school. The stories can be image or text-to-picture books. In matters of delivery, you may opt for gestures, tonal variation, as well as acting through puppets. Spanish story books feature a broad range of simple stories that kids will love.
Repetition
No matter the age, no one can learn a language except through constant repetition. Repeated exposure to a new language forms a great foundation for learning more advanced details over time. The activities might vary, but the phrases ought to reappear until they become part of your son or daughter’s vocabulary.
You might be worried that you’re biting off more than you can chew with Spanish lessons for preschoolers, but the truth is that young kids have a natural knack for picking up languages. With the right preschool Spanish curriculum, you can help your son or daughter prepare for a world that will demand bilingual language skills.
Finally, remember this: the more fun you make the learning process, the easier it will be for kids to learn Spanish.
