Effective Language Learning Games for Children

Types of Language Games

Linguistic Games

These focus on accuracy, such as supplying the correct word, meaning, synonym, or antonym.

Communicative Games

These focus on the successful exchange of information and ideas. Correct language usage, while important, is secondary to achieving the communicative goal.

Game Categories

Movement Games

In these games, children are physically active. Movement games are generally 'rousers' and need to be closely monitored.

Card Games

Children collect, give away, exchange, sort, and count cards. These can have a specific meaning or value, or simply serve as symbols for objects or actions.

Board Games

These involve moving markers along a path. Board games can be created by children as a fun craft activity.

Dice Games

Remember that dice need not only have numbers on the faces; they can feature colors or letters of the alphabet.

Drawing Games

These bridge the gap between key brain functions. Drawing requires creativity and sensitivity, while children must also understand instructions and describe their art. These are particularly helpful for shy children.

Guessing Games

The aim is to guess the answer to a specific question.

Singing and Chanting Games

These often involve movement, but are listed separately because music plays a vital role in early childhood learning.

Team Games

These can belong to other categories but specifically require cooperative teamwork.

Word Games

These utilize children’s enjoyment of playing with language. They are mostly for older children as they involve spelling and writing.

Role-Play Games

These act as simple drama activities that stimulate a child’s imagination and test true communication skills.

Game Group Dynamics

Greetings: "What's your name?"

We tell the children we are going to ask their names in English: "What's your name?" We ask in turns. When they say their name, for example, Miguel, we shake hands and answer, "Hello Miguel!"

The Colours

When explaining a color to the class for the first time, bring relevant objects to class, such as a red apple, a yellow banana, or a green leaf.