Learning a Second Language: How Parents Can Help [Publish Date]

You don't have to understand Spanish to help your child boost his/her language skills. Here's how parents can support language learning at home. A parent's attitude toward language learning is crucial to a child's success. An important way to help your child be successful is to be patient. Learning a language takes time. You cannot expect them to be fluent overnight. Additionally, offering praise and encouragement whenever possible will help them gain confidence and make greater progress. Here are other ways you can support language classes at your child's school and language learning at home:

• Help your child make time to practice. Learning a language is like learning to play an instrument. There needs to be time to practice. Students should spend 15-20 minutes daily reviewing Spanish.

• Have your student teach you to say something in the language every day. Explaining is learning. Let your child laugh at your mangled pronunciation - and correct you.

• Find cultural events connected to the language and culture being studied. Check local newspapers/websites for local events. I will also try to announce a cultural event in class when I hear about one. Larger cities like Milwaukee and Madison have a plethora of events to choose from.

• Ask the teacher for resources your child can use at home. The Internet offers a wealth of language resources unimaginable even a few years ago. Different websites offer grammar review and practice, tutoring pages, culture activities, games and many more ways to practice the language.

• Provide videos, books and music in the language. You can even use these in beginning language class because you can still get meaning even if you don't get every word. Ask the teacher for suggestions before you buy to make sure the resources are geared toward a young learner rather than an adult business traveler.

• Look for opportunities outside the classroom. Summer language camps are one resource. Study abroad and travel opportunities are great for students. Families of students of all ages can consider hosting a foreign exchange student. Talk to parents, teachers and administrators about bringing native speakers from the school staff and larger community to talk to students in the language class. Visit a local restaurant or cook a native dish with your child.

• Be an advocate. Ask about your district's plans to provide continuous language-learning opportunities for students at all grade levels, and learn how you can help. The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages offers tips for parents who want to advocate for language programs in their communities.