As we all know, language is a vital mode of communication which keeps the human race connected with each other and also the important quality which differentiates us from the other species.
Languages are in many forms - visual, Gestural, Verbal, Kinesthetic and writing. We all have come into this world with the knowledge of at least one language (ie our Mother tongue ) We start expressing our feelings from the day one - babies by crying and throwing tantrums express themselves.
People who are hard of hearing communicate through Gestures and Blind people through Braille.
According to me, different ways of communication already exist , so it cannot be taught but can be enriched.
When I thought of penning down my views about this topic “ Teaching a Language” it seemed quite easy but as I started progressing, my perspective of being easy changed to hard.
But why did I change my perspective ?
I knew the language - English, I understand, speak and write the language well, but then I realized that teaching it to young kindergarteners who have not yet developed LSRW skills in the language is a totally different story.
What is the remedy ? I have given a few of them which were experimented with the kindergarten students and proved to be successful.
The facilitators in Babaji Vidhyashram followed the different practices given below successfully by integrating Performing Arts ( Dance, Roleplay) and Arts and Craft activities into the learning of languages..
The first and foremost step was by making them listen to stories For example - Role plays, Storytelling with different modulations and Puppet shows
Encouraging them to narrate their understanding of the stories listened to in their own way
Integrating craft activity into the topic For example-Parts of the body with vegetable shapes.
Integrating dance steps to familiarize them with action words For example- Clapping their hands, Stomping their feet, Blinking their eyes , etc
All these proved to be great strategies to help the little ones decipher and use the language conventions in a fun and exciting manner. Even without them knowing they were mastering the use of the language excellently.
ENRICHING A LANGUAGE IS AN ONGOING PROCESS. THE RESPONSIBILITY LIES IN THE HANDS OF EACH AND EVERY INDIVIDUAL TO MASTER A LANGUAGE.
