First steps to a firm foundation in English

Kindergarten is such an important year because it shapes your child's attitude to learning English. Children learn best if they feel safe, supported and happy in their learning environment.

How can I help and support my child to learn?

It is always valuable to reinforce what your child is learning in an enjoyable way by showing them the fun that can be had by playing with English at home.

Even if you are not fluent in English, you can encourage your child by:

• Talking about the language your child has learnt
• Always praising your child
• Listening to the songs, chants and stories together
• Asking your child to draw or colour a picture of an English word

However, it is not only English they are learning in kindergarten, your child is also learning something else that is incredibly important ... literacy.

What do we mean by literacy?

Literacy is the ability to use language to read and write ... and now The National Literacy Strategy in the UK recognizes the importance of oral language skills too.

The ideas supported above will also support literacy development.

This website gives you guidance on the First Friends' programme and some simple activities that can increase your child's English skills and literacy skills as well as comfort and confidence in the classroom.

Most children want to learn and can succeed if they are given the right support and they enjoy it.

We are here to help and support the academic success of your child.

 

 

Download these fun letter games! Instructions included.

Use this syllabus information to find out what to practice with your children

Listen to English at home with the First Friends audio CD. Download these activity ideas