How to teach the German language to children

How to teach the German language to children? Undoubtedly, one of the biggest benefits of expats is exposure to and learning of a second or third language. Benefit for both adults and children, but with a twist. The younger your child is, the easier it will be for him to find learning a language, and before you know it, you will be struggling to keep up with it.

 

Despite this, getting started is difficult for both adults and children. Especially with the German language. It's not an easy language to learn, with three different types attributed to everyday things that most of the time don't make sense, but simply need to be memorized. German words also tend to be quite long, but with the distinct advantage of pronouncing each letter, unlike in French, where it is half silent, and anyone can guess which one it is.

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How to teach the German language to children

In the following lines, we will mention how to teach the German language to children:

 

Make it a family thing

The best way to learn is in an environment where everyone learns. Even if you already know German, make it fun and involve not only the kids, but the whole family.

 

Put sticky notes on things around the house, from dishes to tables, on the window, toys, and the dog, if you're allowed to. Even if your child is still too young to read, picking up a note and reading the word out loud will still come in handy.

 

Try and challenge your child by picking up an object and asking what it is called in German. When your little boy comes up with the right word, a word you don't know (or pretend you don't), it will help cement that word in his mind.

 

Have a family dinner where you all try to speak German, but stutter. And when you go out, try to speak the language, whether it's asking for a loaf of bread or just greeting your neighbor. Your kids will notice how hard you try and eventually follow you.

 

Read books

No matter your child's age, get some picture books aimed at young German children learning to read. In those, you'll have simple words that refer to everyday things, often in themed settings, and you can read them together.

 

Learning a language is as much about learning to speak as it is about learning to spell. Early exposure is fine, even if your child isn't quite ready yet. They will be ready soon.

 

 

Join the local library not only to gain access to a variety of books in German, but also to enjoy reading corners, where other children will sit immersed in the stories. Also inquire if the library has hours for storytelling.

 

At first it will be daunting not to understand a single word of what is being said, and your child will probably not want to go back again... However, gentle persuasion and choosing to read a story he already knows, or review the story at home beforehand will help.