Music and singing songs can help children who are learning English as an additional language.

Language and music both have rhythm, tone, melody, pitch, volume and pauses. Most of the words may be unfamiliar to children at first. Copying and repeating the words in a song can help them practice producing sounds in the new language.

Repetition

Pick songs that repeats words and sentences. Once the children start to memorise the repetitive words, they will be more excited to learn the rest of the song. Keep encouraging children to try and join in.

Movement

Children love songs that include movement. Being able to move our bodies while practising words and sentences in another language can have a wonderful impact on their learning.

Rhythm

It's easier for children to learn the words when the rhythm of the song is consistent and follows a regular pattern. You can use instruments for children to play during the song, such as drums and shakers.

Rhyming

Songs that rhyme can help children memorise vocabulary more easily.

Languages

Give children and their families the chance to share songs in their home languages.

You can find songs and music from different cultures and in different languages online at Mama Lisa's World, many of which can be downloaded for free.