Learning a Second Language

At Evolve Education, we believe that every child is a capable and curious communicator!

Whether your child is immersed in another language at home, picking it up through play at their early learning centre, or showing interest in words from another culture, learning a new language is something to celebrate.

So how do we support learning a second language at our Evolve early learning centres, and how can whānau support this learning at home too?

Language learning through interactions
“Education is not an affair of 'telling' and being told, but an active and constructive process.”
-John Dewey 

We believe that children learn best through intentional learning experiences and opportunities that are linked to their current interests. 
Language learning is not seen in isolation- instead it is woven throughout everyday routines, play, stories, learning experiences and interactions.

As part of our commitment to our bicultural curriculum as well as to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, you can expect to hear greetings and other phrases in te reo Māori woven into daily interactions with children.

Relationships
Strong relationships are at the heart of everything we do!
Our kaiako (teachers) value taking the time to get to know your child’s language, background, interests, and strengths.
If your whānau speaks a language other than English, please share some key phrases so that our kaiako can use these as a tool to support your child with their sense of belonging.

Weaving your home language into what we do on a daily basis helps us to build and strengthen links between your home and our centre.

Supporting your child at home
Here are some simple ways to build on your child’s language learning:

• Use familiar phrases in both languages during daily routines - for example, greetings, meal times, and goodbyes.
• Read bilingual books together or choose picture books with simple words in the language you are wanting your child to become familiar with.
• Songs are a fabulous way to support language learning as children often enjoy the repetition and rhythms that they offer, this can help with their memory skills.
• Talk with your child’s kaiako about what language they’re using at the centre. They’ll be happy to share ideas or phrases to try at home.
• Keep language learning playful. Invite your child to be curious, and enjoy discovering new words together.
• It is also important for you to speak your own language at home too so you child gets the best language role models!

The Evolve Promise
As part of our promise to children and whānau, we strive to nurture confident, happy, curious and independent learners. 
Supporting children to learn a second language is one of the ways we live this promise every day!

We’re always excited to walk alongside your child as they grow their understanding of language, culture, and identity.
We see this as an important part of their journey that sets them up for a lifetime of learning!

If you’d like some more ideas, or have a home language you’d like to share with your centre please talk to your child’s kaiako, 
We would love to be able to support these valuable links between your child’s home life and their early learning centre!