TEFL Rapids City Indiana

Teaching efl in a Kindergarten (34)In recent years, english has become an increasingly popular subject in kindergartens across the globe. As the world grows into an interdependent community, and with society's competitive mind-set, parents worldwide feel that the earlier their children start learning languages, the better. At this point in time english is considered to be the main international language, and so tends to be the most popular choice of second language to learn. What's more, “it has been scientifically proven that children who learn a second language at an early age have more active brain spheres than those who don't.” (1) So, not only will they grasp the language early on, but it will also improve their intelligence and increase their ability to learn other subjects, and other languages, throughout their lives. Kindergarten is, in most cases, the first time children are separated from their families for a significant length of time. They are stripped of the safety and comfort of their homes, brought to a place that is unfamiliar to them and surrounded by children and adults they have never met. Understandably, this is a delicate and significant moment in a child's life. It is of utmost importance for teachers to make the process as smooth as possible, giving the children the necessary care and attention, showing kindness and patience, and helping them feel at ease. The first few days are always challenging and some children find it harder than others. But with an encouraging teacher, a warm, safe environment, and plenty of fun activities, the students will soon grow to enjoy their time at kindergarten. More than once I've seen a student turn from crying when they arrived to crying when they had to leave. children possess an innate curiosity and sense of wonder of the world around them. Still, one of the most frequent challenges a kindergarten teacher will face is trying to gain, and retain, the children's attention. Their motivation can be boosted when teachers notice creativity and positive behaviour, show care and encouragement. young learners are great imitators and mimics. They have a heightened awareness to people's tone and body language. A great way to gain the students' attention is to demonstrate a childlike enthusiasm and sense of wonder. If the teacher is enthusiastic about the topic, the children will follow. teachers have the responsibility of creating a safe and friendly learning environment that will arouse the students' curiosity and interest. Classrooms are decorated with lots of visuals, posters, smiley board, whiteboard, mural of past projects, etc. They should also be equipped with plenty of flashcards, games, books and other materials to ensure the children have plenty of things to keep them entertained. Kindergarten will most likely be the children's first exposure to a different language to their own. At the beginning, students won't understand the teacher's speech alone, and will need instructions and new vocabulary to be demonstrated with pictures and actions. teachers use exaggerated body language, facial expressions and expressive intonation to help convey their meaning. Learning english in kindergarten starts with play and fun activities. Because of young learners' short attention span, teachers must always have plenty of activities prepared. Movement based activities, games, nursery rhymes and role-plays, all add dynamism to the lessons. Vocabulary can be introduced with flashcards and other visuals. children absorb new language through constant repetition. Most children start as kinaesthetic learners, this means they learn through movement and tactile materials. Therefore, it's important for lessons to include plenty of ‘hands on' tasks and action based activities. In my experience as an english teacher, I've found teaching kindergarteners highly rewarding, even if it can be challenging at times. To say the least, young children require a great deal of energy and a fast pace in the classroom. Kindergarten teachers must be patient, caring, and have a great love of children. It also helps to have a sense of humour. children love to laugh and being able to laugh at yourself is a quality they will love you for. It's a privilege, as a teacher, to be able to share a child's first steps into the world of learning.