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Resources
Ten Ways
Parents Can Promote
Language Learning at Home
1.Begin reading to
your children at an early age, and as often as possible, in your
native language and if possible in English. Literacy in the
native language helps in developing proficiency in the second language.
2.Visit your
public library with your children. Choose books for yourself
and your children. As often as possible, read them stories in
your native language and about your native culture.
3. Keep many
types of reading materials (books, magazines, newspapers etc.)
available in your native language and in English in your home.
Encourage your older children to read to your younger children,
and allow your children to see that you also enjoy reading.
4. Ask your
children questions about what they have read, such as:
- What is
happening in the story?
- What do
you think will happen next?
- What did
you like best about the story?
Asking these
questions can help your children become excited about reading,
more responsible for their own learning, and more knowledgeable
about their native and new cultures.
5. Take your
children to places in the community that offer educational
activities and learning experiences. Talk to your children about
what they are seeing. Provide them with the names of new objects
of attention, concern, or interest. Answer any questions they may
have. Remember you are your child's first teacher.
6. Tell your
children stories about your family, as well as stories and songs
you like to hear when you were a child in your native country.
In this way, not only are you reinforcing listening skills, but
you are also passing along important culture information.
7. Discuss
things that happened in school every day. Engage your children
in conversation about their favorite subjects and teachers, and
any special events that go on. Listen closely to what they say
in response
8. Find different
opportunities for your children to write frequently in your
native language and in English. Encourage them to write in a
journal or diary, leave notes for family members, compile
shopping lists, write down recipes, and write letters to family,
and/or pen pals.
9.Select
television programs that you and your child can watch and
discuss. Limit the amount of time your children can watch
television, and encourage them to read, write, listen to music,
or talk with your family members or friends.
Designate a
quiet place for reading at home where your child is comfortable
and away from distractions.
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