Developing languages at a young age gives your child a Skill for Life

Europe is the most popular holiday destination for us Brits with France and Spain being the most popular countries to visit. So when we arrive there why is it so many of us can't speak the language and how many of us have said in our lifetimes “I wish I’d learnt another language when I was younger”?

The fact is, it is much easier for young children to learn a second language. Babies, toddlers and children are extremely receptive, and the strategies and language skills they use for developing their own language are much more active at this young age. Over the years scientific research has proved that the younger the learner the better.

Babies and toddlers have a greater capacity for tuning into foreign language sounds than at any other time in their lives and children learn accents and language patterns far more easily at this age, whereas older children struggle with what becomes natural for younger students. Children love to repeat sounds, and when rewarded by attention from an adult, it stimulates them to repeat and continue with increased vocalisation. The same principles apply when a child learns a second language – it becomes enjoyable and in turn a more likely positive experience when they are older.

We at La Jolie Ronde Languages for Children have been practicing this ethos for well over 30 years not only teaching a second language but introducing children to the everyday realities of the country and the culture they are studying.

We offer both French and Spanish language learning and our methodology is based on oral repetition through fun action songs, games, role play and other activities.

“Parents can play a very important part developing a second language just simply by actively praising and encouraging your child to join in and have fun. The more a parent gets involved and share their enthusiasm, the quicker your child will settle and respond. At home don’t forget to play and sing with your child whenever you can why not recite one of the rhymes or songs whilst changing a nappy, bath time, on the school run in the car even!" Mala Henry Marketing Manager for La Jolie Ronde

For more information visit www.lajolieronde.co.uk/parents Twitter: @LaJolieRondeLtd Facebook: www.facebook.com/LaJolieRondeLtd