Studies show that learning a second language is beneficial to the brain. It boosts mental clarity, improves analytical and problem-solving skills, and improves one’s memory and listening skills. In addition, students who are proficient in a second language receive higher scores in Math, English, and on the SAT.
In today’s global community a second language helps connect individuals, offering a better understanding of other cultures. It can also give employees an edge in the competitive job market.
According to experts, the best time to learn a foreign language is before age 10. Kids learn faster and retain information better than adults or even teens. If you are considering teaching your child a foreign language, it is never too young to start.
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The best method to learn a language is by immersion, though this is not practical or possible for many of us. Thankfully there are several language apps, audio books, and video tutorials of native speakers to assist learning.
If teaching your child a foreign language interests you, here are some apps you may wish to try. Most of these are free, and a couple are available through the public library.
Language sessions should be kept short and fun, using games, flash cards, and repetition to enhance memorization. Include real world situations and conversations by practicing commonly used expressions and phrases.
LANGUAGE TOOLS FOR YOUNG KIDS
1. MUZZY BBC
Subscription based. Some public libraries offer free access. A DVD set is also available for purchase.
Learn up to 7 languages.
Muzzy was designed for children. Offers lessons for three age groups, toddlers and preschoolers, ages 5-9, and tweens and teens.
Uses a spiral learning approach with repetition. Follows the ‘see and listen’, ‘say and learn’ principle to teach speaking, listening, writing, and reading.
Uses videos, interactive games, songs, and movies.
2. LITTLE PIM
Paid service. One price to have access to 12 languages.
Ages 0-6 years. Download the app on iOS or Android or watch with Roku, Amazon FireTV, appleTV, and AndroidTV.
Short 5-minute video lessons. Companion guides are available for parents.
3. MONDLY KIDS
Fun and kid-friendly app available on iOS and Android. Students learn through play. Short, gamified lessons are recorded by native speakers.
Offers 41 different languages. Free and paid versions available.
For ages 5-12 years. Parents choose the language and level (preschool or school-aged) they wish their child to learn. Track their progress in the stats section.
4. DINOLINGO
Dinosaur-themed language learning website.
Online subscription service with a 7-day free trial. For kids ages 2-17 years.
Choose from 50 languages.
Curriculum and lesson plan available for parents.
3. LINGODEER
Kids can learn 12 different languages using this app. For Android and iOS users.
Features daily goals and an alphabet chart. Students learn themed words and phrases with ongoing review. Must pass test to advance. Also uses a daily streak count to encourage consistency.
LEARNING TOOLS for KIDS
LANGUAGE TOOLS FOR OLDER KIDS AND ADULTS
1. DUOLINGO
Free, with a paid option. Ages 7 and up. Private account with no access to chat until age 13, then parent may restrict access with parental controls.
Works on computer, iOS, and Android
This app has 43 different languages to choose from- even Klingon!
Your child will be exposed to reading, writing, listening, and speaking in the chosen language.
It teaches short lessons- basic words and everyday expressions mixed with fun phrases. Earn point and unlock new levels. Learning streaks are used to encourage daily practice.
2. ROSETTA STONE
While Rosetta Stone is not free, it offers a free trial, then a reasonably priced subscription with an option to purchase a lifetime membership. This product is offered at some public libraries, check yours.
Ages 5 and up.
This app offers 23 languages plus a choice between American or British English & Latin American or Spain Spanish. Themed lessons, such as ‘greetings’. Coaching services from native speakers are available.
Download onto any device, then may used on and offline.
ECHO DOT for KIDS
3. BABBEL
Currently celebrating its 60th birthday, Babbel is offering discounts to its subscription-based service. A one-time fee lifetime membership is also available.
Offers a choice of 13 languages.
Short, 10 minute lessons teaches words and culture. Self-paced learning, podcasts, and live classes with native speakers. Best for school-aged kids 7 years and up.
4. MANGO LANGUAGES APP
Subscription-based learning app with a 7-day free trial.
This android and iOS-friendly app offers over 70 languages to choose from.
For older kids and adults, this app teaches vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, culture. It focuses on student’s comprehension and retention.
5. MEMRISE
Free with four paid subscription options. Ages teen to adult.
Offered on Android, iOS, and website. Features are different depending on device & service.
Choose from 19 languages. Offers courses and a phrase book.
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