Learning to read as a bilingual toddler
If you are a minority language parent in an English speaking country, you will relate to this: you can find tons of books in EngIish, not so many in the target language. And that’s not a big deal, for a good while. Because you have gotten super skilled in translating the stories for your little one instantly.
Something changes around the three year mark though. Kids start becoming aware that sounds can be represented with symbols. They start paying attention to the print, they might even start to recognise a few letters. And even though there’s nothing wrong with translating a story out loud, I would love Sophia to start making this connection with Greek characters, the way she is starting to do with Latin characters.
I know she does, because of the way she runs her finger over the letters and shouts Hoooooooo! But the thing is, if you’ re Greek you will know this, Greek owls don’t go “hoo”… like, not even close 😂 .
The realisation Sophia has started to notice letters, means I had to start stocking our library with more Greek books. (By the way, if you live in the UK and you’re looking for Greek books, this is an online bookstore with a good selection. The markup is obviously quite big though, so we still ask all visitors from Greece to bring us some).
Creating resources for learning at home
So where is this long introduction leading?
Before too long, my little ones will start school, here in Scotland. Chris and I have made the decision to support them with additional home education, to make sure they get to know both sides of their mixed heritage.
This early years Greek Alphabet tracing activity book is the first in a series of language and culture resources that I’m thrilled to share with families like ours. This workbook is perfect for parents and educators seeking an engaging way to introduce children to the Greek language.
Why Learn the Greek Alphabet?
The Greek language is the foundation of so many English words and phrases, making it a great tool for understanding linguistic roots. Learning Greek (or any other language) can be a gateway to exploring a whole different fascinating culture, mythology, and history.
First things first
Let your toddler take their time and build up their hand strength and dexterity before trying to teach them to write. Hand strengthening exercises include:
- Popping bubble wrap
- Cutting with scissors
- Crumbling paper
- Helping with cooking
- Squeezing sponges and stress balls
- Threading beads
- Lego duplo blocks
Features of the Greek Alphabet Activity Book
- Warm-up Sheets
- Alphabet Tracing Pages
- Illustrations and Examples: Everyday objects and animal favourites accompany each letter to help children associate letters with familiar words and images.
- Drawing pages for sound exploration and creative expression.
How to Use the Workbook
- Take it slow: Once the child is ready and is showing interest in holding a pencil and making marks, introduce the letters slowly, one at a time. Your child will show you the appropriate pace to work through theses pages.
- Reinforce Learning: Use flashcards, games, and songs to associate each letter and its corresponding sound.
- Spaced repetition: Go back to the previous letters a few days later and redo the activity sheet.
- Keep reading books: This is the most natural way to become familiar with the letters.
- Print as many times as needed and compare the progress!
Who Is This Greek Alphabet Tracing Workbook For?
- Parents: Looking to introduce their children to the Greek alphabet in a fun and interactive way.
- Educators: Seeking supplemental materials for teaching the Greek language.
- Bilingual Families: Aiming to support and reinforce their child’s Greek language skills.
- Language Enthusiasts: Interested in learning the Greek alphabet as a foundation for further language study.
- Cultural Explorers: Wanting to connect with Greek heritage and traditions through language learning.
Get Your Free Copy
Click below to access the Greek Alphabet Tracing Activity book as a FREE digital download.
Join Our Community
Are you raising bilingual kids? Let us know of your tips, milestones and inspiration in the comments below.
Thank you for being a part of the Olive Thistle & Rose family. I hope this workbook brings joy and learning into your home.
Happy tracing!
Madeau
I don’t see how to retrieve the worksheets. I signed up but the link just takes me to a Kit marketing tool website asking me about my marketing needs. How am I to download the worksheets?