Which Foreign Language Should Your Child Learn First?

The best first foreign language for a child depends on the family's reason for learning it, not on a ranking of languages. Match the language to a real goal such as a school option, a family or travel connection, or a country where your child may study or live. Pick one, stay with it for at least a year, and choose a live class that gives your child speaking practice.

How do you decide?

• Does your child's school offer or encourage a particular language?
• Is there a family connection or a place you visit often?
• Do you expect your child to study or work in a certain region later?
• Is there a language your child already finds interesting, from songs, films or games?
• Can you find a live teacher and regular speaking practice for that language?

What is each language used for?

French is spoken in France, parts of Canada, Switzerland, Belgium and many countries in Africa. German is the main language of Germany and Austria and is widely spoken in Switzerland. Spanish is spoken in Spain and across most of Latin America. All three use the Latin alphabet, so reading is easier to start than in languages with a different script, such as Japanese or Korean.

When should a child start?

A child can begin once they can follow short spoken instructions and enjoy games, rhymes and conversation. Younger children learn mainly by listening and speaking. Older children can add reading and writing. Whatever the age, short regular sessions work better than occasional long ones.

What should a good online class include?

• a live teacher who corrects pronunciation in the session
• speaking practice in every class, not only worksheets
• short activities that change often, so the child stays engaged
• small groups or one-on-one attention
• regular revision and updates for parents

What does AJ Academy offer?

AJ Academy offers online language classes in French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Japanese, Korean and Hindi. Message us on WhatsApp, tell us which language you are considering and your child's age, and ask for a free demo class.