How to improve the language while waiting the place in school

School admissions are not always a straightforward process, and sometimes it can take months. You apply to the council and then wait, wait, and wait…

But don’t worry—this can actually be a great opportunity. You have time to get used to the new city and language. We have prepared some tips to help your child improve their language skills and integrate more quickly.

Language acquisition is all about immersion. The best thing you can do is surround your child with the English language.

It shouldn’t be too overwhelming, as this could put children off. We recommend a gentle immersion approach. Start by visiting museums and theatres, and go to your local library to find out about events taking place there. You can also introduce them to English-language cartoons or YouTube shows. Audiobooks are another great option— playing the same book several times can help, as our brains remember word structures through spaced repetition.

Visit the Playground

Some children are happy to join in games regardless of language, while others may be more reserved and hesitant to participate in unfamiliar activities. Even if your child doesn’t actively engage, simply being in the playground can help them familiarise themselves with the sounds of the language and adapt to their new environment.

Join a Course

I highly recommend enrolling in our courses, as they are specifically designed to address these challenges.

Consider Hiring an English-Speaking Nanny or Childminder

This can help your child acquire basic vocabulary and become familiar with the sounds of the language in a natural setting. The best resources where you can I hire a nanny are bubble.com, childminders.com and care.com.

Try Kids’ Activities

There are many activities available for children, such as sports, arts, and drama. However, we don’t recommend jumping straight into planned and structured courses designed to achieve results in certain sport or master some subject, they usually require a good understanding of the language and they can sometimes feel overwhelming and unfamiliar. Instead, focus on activities your child already enjoys and feels comfortable with.

Some activities are designed purely for fun and development, making them easy to engage with. For example, Tarka (tarka.com) has multiple locations across London and offers enjoyable sessions for children.

Look for Workshops and Events

Libraries and museums often run fantastic workshops and events for children. These provide a fun way to interact with English speakers in an engaging setting.

Go to the Theatre

There are wonderful performances available that can help boost your child’s vocabulary. You can check our blog for a guide to the best children’s theatre shows in London.

With these strategies, your child will become more comfortable with the English language while waiting for their school place. Enjoy your time in London!