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Want to teach your child a foreign language? Being able to speak a second or third language is something that offers people value for the rest of their lives.

While there is a lot of evidence that the younger a child learns, the better, children acquire pronunciation, accent, and grammar rules best before the end of their teenage years.

So, how can you help your child become fluent?

1. Start as soon as possible.

Introducing the language early is the first step to teaching your child a foreign language. Start now, no matter how old your child is. Introducing a new language early on will give your child the best chance at mastering a foreign language as they get older.

2. Start teaching the basics.

Even if you don’t know the foreign language you teach, you can start by learning the basics together.

Hearing the target language can help children get an ear for the different tones.

Learn the colors and shapes together, learn to count together, and sing songs. Play games together. Label things around the house and practice identifying them.

Engaging in activities that your child loves and make language learning enjoyable. Children learn better when they are having fun. Whether playing games or drawing, take advantage of playtime together to introduce new vocabulary and phrases.

3. Take advantage of foreign language resources.

Resources will be your best friend when teaching your child a foreign language. Research online for foreign language books, language apps, online language programs, games, and activities.

4. Find opportunities to practice the target language

While language classes, groups, and other study materials will set down a good foundation for language learning, you will need to find ways for your child to practice what they have learned. It isn’t enough to simply listen or study words. Children need to use a language to master it.

5. Find study groups

Your child could benefit greatly from joining a group. Many communities have after-school programs, classes at a local recreation center, or other community groups where your child can find friends and peers who are also trying to improve their skills. It won’t be easy, and it won’t happen overnight. But teaching your child a foreign language is a gift that can last a lifetime.

Ahmed Ragab is a fourth-year student at Cairo University, where he is pursuing a bachelor's degree in physical therapy. He is a passionate email marketer, who helps develop original email marketing strategies.