If you’re considering French immersion for your kids, if they’re just starting French at school, or if you simply want to explore French together at home, there are many fun ways to start.
Young children are very good at learning languages. They can pick up a new language more easily than adults just by hearing and using it regularly, rather than by studying language rules. The key is to keep learning fun and positive and use lots of repetition. Here are some ideas you can try, along with library resources that can support your child’s French learning:
French Music
Every language has its own sounds, and singing and listening to songs can help kids learn the sounds of a new language. Songs slow down words, making it easier to hear individual sounds. Look for times to add French music into your day, like during playtime or as part of a bedtime routine. The library also has French children’s CDs you can borrow to find new music.
Numbers, Colours, Shapes
Start small by introducing words about concepts like numbers, colours, and shapes. These are words that are easy to use every day: try counting toys while playing, noticing colours in clothes while getting dressed, or spotting different shapes around the house.
Daily Routines and Play
Choose a daily routine or favourite play activity to start learning new French words. No need to add too much at once! Pick one thing to start with, like getting dressed, eating, or drawing and colouring. This is also a great chance to focus on your child’s interests! If they love animals, vehicles, or exploring outside, you can introduce words about things that they already love talking about. Looking for ideas? Check out a French picture dictionary to find words around different activities, places, or topics.
My Big Barefoot Book of French & English Words
Playing Games
Try using French in some of your favourite games! For example, you can learn the French words for the pictures in a memory game or play I Spy in French to practice colours.
Bilingual Reading
Reading the same story in two languages can help children learn new words and understand sentences in a second language. When kids already know a story in their first language, it’s easier to follow along in a new language. Some books are bilingual, with both languages side by side on the same page, while many more books have both French and English versions available.
Keep learning with our new Hello-Bonjour Storytime series in May! This storytime for ages 1–3 and their adults will be led primarily in English with simple French vocabulary introduced throughout. It is perfect for families who are considering French immersion, or simply curious about introducing an additional language at home.
Learn More
- French Footprints Parent Resource Hub (Canadian Parents for French)
- How Can Young Children Best Learn Languages? (British Council)
- Why Do Children Learn Languages More Effortlessly than Adults? (United Nations)
- 10 Fun and Engaging Ways to Introduce French to Toddlers at Home (Apprendre Franco-Fun)
Add a comment to: Introducing French to Young Children