Learning English as an additional language

Speak to children in their home language

When at home, always speak to your child in the language that you are most comfortable with speaking, often your home language. This will allow your child to develop a good language foundation. They can then learn English at school, building on a good foundation in their home language.

Switching between languages

It is common for children who are learning 2 languages to switch between the 2. They will sometimes use 2 different languages in 1 sentence. Sometimes your child may respond in a different language to the one you used with them, but don’t worry, this means they still understood your message. This is typical for children learning 2 languages.

Teach new words in your home language

If your child gets sent home with any words to practice or learn, try to do this in your home language. This way, your child will be able to gain a better understanding of the word, and use it when talking to you at home.

Strategies

There are a few strategies you can use to support your child’s language development at home:

• use visual cues such as facial expression, gesture, sign and symbols
• keep language simple and relevant to the context
• talk about things that they can see and hear
• use repetition and a slow rate of speech
• shorten instructions
• use consistent and familiar vocabulary
• extend your child’s sentences by introducing new words according to the child’s level
• get your child’s attention before giving them instructions, for example, by using their name and making eye contact

Concerns

If you have any concerns about your child’s language development in their home language, please do not hesitate to discuss these concerns with your school’s special educational needs coordinator (SENCo) or contact the speech and language therapy service.