Early Learning a Key to Success in School

How can immigrant parents prepare their young children for success in school?

What motivates people to leave their loved ones, culture, favorite foods and friends behind and move to a strange, cold land? For some, the terrors of war and persecution make the West an obvious choice. But others, successful and prosperous in their own countries, come too. Why? Dreams of a better life for themselves and their children.

Teachers tell us that language skills are the key to success, and your adult ESL learners can start preparing their children and babies to learn English right from the beginning.

Pass these tips on, and help your students make their dreams for their children come true!

* We know that babies can hear in the womb, and some studies suggest that classical music helps people to learn. Expectant mothers—turn on the music!

* Little babies are very interested in faces. Look at your baby and talk to him while you’re feeding and changing him.

* Speak to your baby slowly, clearly and simply. Answer her when she tries to talk to you.

* Use different voices for the different people and animals as you read stories to your baby or toddler. Read with lots of expression.

* Turn off the TV when your little one is awake. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children under two years old shouldn't see any TV at all, and children two years old and over should not see more than two hours a day.

* Forget the batteries! Turn off the computer! Ordinary toys like blocks and dolls help young children learn to be creative. Give him time to play alone, and at other times talk to him about what he’s doing.

* Does your toddler like dogs or cars? Does she like to play dress-up? Encourage her interests.

* Don’t correct his pronunciation, but answer him with correct pronunciation.

* Have fun! Enjoy this special time with your little one, knowing that the fun you’re having together now will help to prepare her for a brighter future.

Margaret Welwood is an English as a Second Language Instructor, freelance writer and editor. She has taught English as a Second Language in Alberta, Canada, for over 25 years. She and her husband have raised five children and are now watching two grandchildren grow up into fascinating little people.
To learn more about how to prepare your young child for success in school, click here: http://www.teachyouryoungchild.ca
To sign up for Margaret’s free seven-part vocabulary course for adults, click here: http://www.teachyouryoungchild.ca/registration_form.htm
To read more of her articles, click here: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Margaret_Welwood