You have been trying to introduce your child to a new language, Arabic, but there are a hundred things competing for their attention, from schoolwork, friends, video games, and storybooks to superhero movies and kid’s shows.
How do you pique their interest in learning a new language when they already have so many things keeping them busy?
The first idea that comes to mind is getting them Arabic audio books. They can listen to these while you drive them to the school or when they accompany you to the shopping center.
We have a few more suggestions that will steer their attention toward learning the language.
1. Set Goals (Don’t Leave the Fun Out)
When setting goals for children, find ways to make it fun. The goal should be a real challenge, but all the work they put toward achieving it should be thoroughly enjoyable. It should not feel like a chore.
Here are some examples:
- A family sing-along of their favorite Arabic song every day
- Learn new Arabic words by watching daily videos
- Learn region-specific words used by their favorite characters in Arabic children’s books
- Learn the vocabulary related to their favorite game
- Playing Arabic word games regularly
These goals will be more effective than goals like, “Memorize 70 new Arabic words every week.”
2. Turn Games and Multi-Media into Learning Tools
Games, videos, songs are proven tools that engage children in learning a new language and keep them engaged long-term.
Choose multi-media resources that are entertaining and educational at the same time. Tailor lessons that make a lot of use of games, stories, and Arabic audio books. This will ensure the children are really involved with the Arabic lessons.
3. Have a Reward System in Place
To keep your child interested in Arabic lessons, incentivize them with rewards. When they are appreciated and rewarded for their efforts, they will remain motivated.
Make a list of activities that your child enjoys, and every time they make progress in their language goals, get them something that enhances the enjoyment from activities they love.
For example, if your child is a soccer fan, get them soccer equipment they don’t have. If they are interested in stories and folklores, buy Arabic children’s books for them. Language Lizard, LLC carries a wide selection of bilingual children’s books in Arabic and English. They also have an Arabic picture dictionary.
The idea is to let them know you acknowledge and are proud of their accomplishments.
4. Know Where to Draw the Line
Learning a language takes dedication and hard work. Your child will put in both.
Forcing them to pick learning a language over meeting a friend or playing soccer is not a good idea. The more forceful you are, the less interest they will take.
Don’t push.
Focus on simple, fun ways to make sure they are engaged with the activity.
To Conclude
Are you determined to teach the language to your child? Buy Arabic books for kids to get started.
The first step to getting your child interested in learning Arabic may seem challenging, but the above tips will make it easy.
