For young learners, it is vital to set a routine because it can boost their confidence especially in speaking a foreign language. With routinary activities, children can predict transitions of the lesson flow.

Every day, we start by saying the classroom rules so children know their limitations and boundaries. We can also include gentle reminders about certain misbehaviors that have recently arisen. For instance, we just got some new toys. We have included sharing toys with friends and taking turns to avoid fighting.

It will be followed by our unit song. Children sing along while we gradually put some gestures until everyone can sing the song confidently. Then we start with the lesson story. I will always ask about the pictures in the lesson story. Then, children read it after the teacher. I also ask them comprehension questions about the story after they have read its translation so, they already grasp the meaning of the story.

Then, we’ll have the target expressions. We start with the question and a sample answer. I will then introduce the vocabulary using pictures for younger kids. Then we substitute each vocabulary in the sample answer.

Repetition is necessary until everyone can say the target language without teacher’s prompts. We do this through various lesson activities or fun games.

This kind of routine is very effective in retaining the target language. The song with simple lyrics of the target language makes the kids have more focus and engagement. They also sing the song even after the lesson. I heard from a parent that their child sings the song at home with the younger sibling.

Lesson story reading as part of our routine also helps kid in recognizing sight words. Children can now read these words that frequently appear in stories.

So, if you’re learning a foreign language, I suggest that you also set a routine and see for yourself your improvements!