The OPOL Method For Kids
The OPOL ( one parent, one language ) method, also known as “one parent, one language”, means that each parent must speak to their children in a different language. This method will allow the child to practice more often and be able to become familiar with languages more quickly.
What are bilingual children like?
Learning a second language can seem complex, but if the correct techniques are applied while the child is in full development, it can be simple to implement.
According to an interview conducted by the newspaper El Mundo with Jill Stribling, director and founder of the English for Fun institute, it is highlighted that, although the ideal is to learn both languages in parallel, it is also possible to learn a second language later.
According to the director, in countries like the Netherlands and Belgium, their inhabitants simultaneously deal with two languages and, even, they usually start doing this from a very young age. In addition, she adds that “bilingual children are generally more creative, develop their brains in a different way, and have greater self-esteem.”
According to Jill Stribling, it can be a mistake to force children to respond in a particular language; mainly because it could block your learning. Therefore, it is recommended that parents be patient so that the child can have the necessary time to learn.
How to apply the OPOL method for children
Kindergartens or kindergartens are ideal places for developing a second language, so the application of the OPOL method can be much more effective. It can also be applied by the person in charge of caring for the child. The following are some of the points that should be taken into account when starting this method:
Use videos and music
To start applying the OPOL method, it is essential to use videos, music and even children’s programs in English so that the child starts to recognize the language very early. Also, this will help you identify the various accents.
Use both languages during the day
It is most advisable to apply the OPOL method for children correctly that both languages are used during the day, at least 50% each.
As it can be a bit complex to make an exact calculation of the usage time for each of them, the secondary language must be applied at least 30% of the time; what is defined as at least 5 hours a day.
The importance of the environment
It is essential that the child directly relate an environment or a person to one of the languages so that, in this way, the brain can recognize when to focus on a particular language.
apply routines correctly
Routines are largely needed to learn a new language; always trying not to let more than two days pass without the child practicing the secondary language. It is important to remember that children learn every day; so it is essential to reinforce this learning with daily tasks and various activities.
Activities to reinforce the language
The newspaper El Mundo recommends some techniques that can help children to learn a particular language faster and more effectively. Here are some of their recommendations:
- With current language switching options, it is much easier for children to watch programs in English. Which is very beneficial at this stage.
- Watch movies in English. This will help reinforce the language and allow the child to assimilate it more quickly.
- Read books in secondary language. Parents can use some bilingual books that are appropriate for the child’s age. Audiobooks are often very effective as well.
- Make activities simple and fun. Regarding what the child learns at school, this can also be applied at home. For example, if the school teaches colors in English, parents can also use them at home.
- As each parent speaks to the child in one language, he can get used to each one more quickly.
- Download apps in another language so kids can use them. With the current use of technology, parents have at their disposal various activities and games for their children.
At first, it may be normal that when children are learning two languages simultaneously, they might mix some words with others. Therefore, patience and practice will be essential to be able to apply this method effectively.
