How to Use Screen Time To Your Advantage When Teaching a Foreign Language

Let's chat about screen time. I know, I know - it's often seen as a bit of a no-no, right? But here's a twist: screen time isn't all bad, especially when it comes to teaching your kids a new language. The trick is to make it as educational and interactive as possible.

Let me tell you about Anneke, a mom in our Cultured Home program. She nailed it with her approach to fitting language lessons into her hectic schedule. She swapped her son Soren's usual Peppa Pig time for one of our language videos. Genius, right? It’s about making the most of the time you have, not finding extra hours in the day (because, let’s face it, those extra hours are for your coffee break!).

Here’s a thought: What if we swap out some of the less engaging shows our kids watch for something that teaches them a new language?

Now, let's talk about making screen time interactive. Studies show that interactive apps, like “read-along” experiences, boost children’s understanding of stories and words. Our Cultured Home lessons do just that. They're designed to get your kids responding and interacting, not just watching. And you know what's cool? Often, kids start repeating the words before our native speakers do. That’s learning in action!

But it's not just about watching; it's about engaging with your kids during screen time. Imagine watching a lesson on colors and then later playing a game where you name all the colors you see around you. It’s about taking what they see on the screen and bringing it to life.

For us non-native speaking parents, educational videos and apps are a lifeline. They give our kids (and us!) access to native pronunciation and accents. Consistency is key here. A little bit every day goes a long way in language learning.

So, what’s the bottom line on screen time? It’s a fantastic tool for second language learning, especially if you're not a native speaker yourself. But remember, it's just one piece of the puzzle. Reading, playtime, songs, and physical activities are all crucial for a well-rounded language learning experience.

Curious about how to make language learning fun and effective through videos, interactive games, and read-aloud storybooks? Why not try a free week of lessons and see how quickly your little one starts speaking their first words!

Key Takeaways:

1. Swap Regular Shows for Language Lessons: Use existing screen time to introduce new languages.
2. Interactive Learning: Choose apps and programs that encourage active participation.
    
3. Co-View and Engage: Watch and learn with your kids to reinforce new concepts.
4. Consistent Exposure: Regular, short language lessons are better than infrequent, long sessions.
5. Blend Learning Tools: Combine screen time with reading, songs, and physical activities for a comprehensive approach.

✨ Psst... When you're ready, here are a few ways I can help you get started with teaching your kids a foreign language at home...

1. Download My FREE Languages Made Easy for Kids Roadmap to help you see how easy introducing a foreign language at home can be - especially if you don't speak the language at all.

2. Discover the magic of our FREE Fast Track Mini Language Lesson Bundle.
These play-based lessons are designed to give immediate results, making language learning fun and effortless. Simply choose your desired language and kickstart your child's linguistic journey today!

3. Looking for a 12 month, step-by-step plan and play based resources to help you introduce a language to your little ones with EASE? Quit scrolling on Pinterest and Join our 12 Month Kids Foreign Language Program to get everything you need to started and KEEP GOING!