How to Teach Your Child to Read in Two Languages

Bilingual reading abilities offer many advantages for young children. Developing bilingual reading skills is an essential part of raising children who are fluent in two languages. However, for bilingual families, getting a child to naturally begin reading in both languages can be a challenge. To avoid relying on tutors when your child gets older, take advantage of the early years to teach them to read in two languages at home. This article outlines techniques to use during the formative years, which are easy, enjoyable, and free.

Start early. If possible, begin this technique during your child's preschool years, as this is the optimal time. However, it’s not too late if you start when your child begins school. The best age range for learning a second language is between 6 months and 4 years old. Learning a second language is especially effective during this time.

Set a primary language at home. While this step is optional, consistency is key. If you decide to speak only one language at home (e.g., your native language in a country where another language is spoken), stick to it. This will not hinder the child if you speak in your mother tongue, as long as you start early and remain consistent. Some families also have the mother speak her native language, and the father speaks his. The important thing is for the child to see consistency.

• Note that this approach does not work for families using three languages (mother speaks one language, father speaks another, and the child learns a third language at school).

Make it a game. Just like other activities, children will learn more easily if the learning process is turned into a game and made ‘fun’. When the child feels comfortable, introduce a ‘learning game’ or a ‘word puzzle’ that you can play. (Avoid mentioning ‘studying’ or ‘translation’ as they sound like tasks to be avoided). Observe the child’s reaction and avoid forcing them.

Acknowledge the child's effort. Make the child feel proud of their efforts and achievements. Repetition is the simplest and most effective way to reinforce learning.

• Now, try the same with the last letter.
• Do one or two more words in each round. Repeat with fun variations.

Start the word translation game. Once both of you are familiar with the game rules (the child will also suggest a few rules, so be ready to adapt), it’s time to begin the word translation game. This requires some planning; the words selected should be simple and appropriate.

• Think of a word that the child finds interesting and can be rearranged into a word in your language.

Transform it. Once you have the right word, follow these steps:

• After the beginning and ending letter game, rearrange it as before while the child’s eyes are closed. Tell the child that the game is going to get harder now.
• Read the word out loud. Tell the child that it’s a word in your language and ask them what they think the word means. Then, explain it to them. Don’t call it a translation yet; wait until this feels more natural.

Always be creative. Don’t hold back: children are incredibly creative, and that’s how they learn. So, don’t fall behind. Be inventive in coming up with new words from your child’s fresh experiences.

Keep the excitement for reading books in both languages alive by investing in beautiful and interesting books written in the second language. Make it a habit to read together with the child regularly.

• Play for short intervals. Signs of boredom appear when fatigue sets in, so stop and pick up the game at a later time. Don’t turn it into a chore.
• Try to review the previous lesson with a game before beginning a new one. Place the stuffed animal nearby and ask who wants to volunteer to answer. Focus on the "other students". The child will want to answer right away!
• Use objects around you to turn reading into an ABC game, learning numbers and first words. For instance, point to license plates, numbers and words in the supermarket, street signs, and other everyday items you have at home.
• Use the internet as a learning tool by sending emails to family and friends so your child can practice the language. Search for videos and stories in both languages online.
• Read reading techniques for teaching others first. A strong foundation in reading is essential.
• Even if you don’t speak both languages but want your child to do so, you can still teach them. With enough dedication, focus, and persistence, and by putting in effort to learn the basics of what you plan to teach, you can succeed. Use CDs, the internet, and other resources.
• Write letters, postcards, birthday and Christmas cards to send to friends and family. This is a great way for children in bilingual families to strengthen their writing skills and enhance their progress in learning a second language.

• This method is not suitable for families speaking three languages, where parents use a different language from the one the child is learning at school.
• This method is not ideal if the two languages have different writing systems, such as English and Japanese.
• The key point here is to keep the process fun. Once children start school, engaging them in reading in your language becomes nearly impossible. If children realize they are speaking a language used only at home, they may resist. Tell them you enjoy it when they speak to you in your native language; children love fulfilling important requests from you.

• Letter block games – absolutely essential. Without them, teaching becomes very difficult, lacking illustrations, and most importantly, fun.

• Teach Reading (Dạy đọc)
• Make Letters of the English Alphabet (Tạo các ký tự ABC tiếng Anh)
• Encourage Your Child to Love Learning (Khuyến khích con bạn yêu việc học)
• Homeschool Your Children (Dạy học con bạn ở nhà)
• Handle Your Child's Temper Tantrum (Điều khiển tâm trạng cơn giận của con bạn)
• Teach Your Children a Second Language (Dạy con bạn ngôn ngữ thứ 2)
• Teach Kids to Garden (Dạy trẻ làm vườn)
• Teach Languages (Dạy các ngôn ngữ)