When is the best time for children to start learning English?
In recent years, as the age at which children begin English education continues to decrease, we often hear the question: at what age is it most effective to start learning English? In this article, we will explain the optimal timing for acquiring English, specifically for parents of infants, toddlers, and elementary school children.
What is the Best Time to Start Learning English?
Many of you have probably heard the saying, “It’s better to start learning English early.” This idea stems from the notion that “the ability to acquire language sounds, such as pronunciation, becomes more difficult after a certain age.”
While getting accustomed to English sounds from infancy allows children to naturally mimic pronunciation, the ability to discern sounds becomes harder as one approaches adulthood. Therefore, starting early in childhood is often recommended for accurately perceiving English sounds and achieving pronunciation closer to a native speaker’s. However, it’s also important to remember that while young children absorb language quickly, they also forget quickly if they don’t use it. This means a consistent environment for exposure to English is essential.
In reality, the best time to start learning English varies depending on the child’s developmental stage, personality, and the level of English proficiency parents wish to achieve. Consequently, even experts hold differing opinions on this matter. It is crucial to determine the timing that aligns with your family’s preferences and suits your child best.
How to Determine the Right Timing for Your Child
If you wish to raise your child to thrive globally in today’s world, it’s best to encourage your child to start learning English early—during infancy and toddlerhood—to help them develop near-native pronunciation. While young children excel at language development, it’s generally said that after age 3, they become accustomed to Japanese pronunciation, making it harder for them to pick up English sounds. Since there are individual differences in infant and toddler development, it’s best to observe your child and start when they seem to enjoy engaging with English.
Furthermore, many children begin to show resistance to speaking English after entering third grade. Therefore, starting before third grade is advisable to minimize reluctance toward conversational English.
On the other hand, for families prioritizing exam-focused reading and writing skills over conversation, English cram schools are more suitable than conversation classes. By upper elementary grades, children can progress effectively using workbooks and apps at home.
The optimal time to start English education varies depending on your family and your child’s situation. That said, to fully develop speaking and listening skills, starting in infancy or early childhood is recommended. However, it’s crucial to provide an environment where they can consistently be exposed to English. To determine the best starting time suited to your child’s developmental stage and personality, it’s also a good idea to take advantage of free trial sessions at English preschools or similar programs.
