The summer holidays are a well-deserved break for your teenagers, but there is always the worry that they lose momentum before the new school year. In this blog, we’ll explore five creative and enjoyable ways to inspire your children to keep their English going over the summer, so they start the school year on the right foot.
1. Read for Pleasure
Encourage your child to dive into the world of literature for sheer enjoyment. Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, or poetry, reading expands vocabulary, enhances comprehension, and fosters a deeper understanding of language nuances. Allow them to choose books that capture their interests and challenge their imagination. You could maybe consider reading the same book and discussing it together. Engaging in conversations about characters, plot twists, and the author’s writing style will not only bond you as a family but also strengthen your teen’s critical thinking skills.
2. Writing Adventures
Set your child on a writing adventure this summer. From keeping a personal journal to creating short stories or even attempting a novella, the possibilities are endless. Encourage them to explore different writing styles and genres. Additionally, suggest writing letters or emails to friends or family members who live far away. Writing not only enhances creativity but also improves grammar, vocabulary, and overall language proficiency.
3. Language Immersion through Media
Turn the summer holidays into a language immersion experience by incorporating different media. Encourage your teenager to watch movies, TV shows, documentaries, and YouTube channels. Exposing them to diverse media, and possibly concentrating on longer extracts than they are used to, with a range of vocabulary, dialogues, and presentation styles will strengthen their listening and comprehension skills. You could even organise family movie nights with English films, followed by discussions about the plot, characters, and themes.
4. Debates and Discussions
Engage your child in meaningful debates and discussions on various topics, ranging from current affairs to ethical dilemmas. Allow them to express their opinions while encouraging them to listen actively to opposing views. This practice sharpens their critical thinking, persuasive language, and communication skills.
5. Online Language Resources
Take advantage of the abundance of online resources to help your teenager practise and refine their English Language skills. There are numerous websites, apps, and language platforms designed to make learning fun and interactive. From vocabulary games to grammar quizzes and language exercises, these resources can be a valuable addition to your child’s summer routine.
Emphasize the importance of continual learning and exploration, and remember that inspiring them through interactive and enjoyable methods is the key to success..
With your support and guidance, your teenager will step into the new term with confidence and a passion for English Language that will serve them well throughout their exam years and beyond.