Before doing an activity, encourage your child to count in the second language: “Ok, before we run to the slide, let’s count to ten. Ready set, go, one, two, three…” Even if your child doesn’t count with you, count yourself so that they will hear you and make the association between the language and having fun.

Try this activity all week. You can add to it by counting in different languages. The point is to get your child to enjoy language in general.

Add to the fun by counting backwards, "This time we'll count backwards until we get to zero and then we'll run around the sofa three times!" And then count while you run around the sofa.

Young kids usually enjoy things being repeated over and over so although you may think your child is fed up with counting, they probably aren't. Let them give you cues as to whether they are enjoying it or not.

If your child shows resistance, try just counting to yourself while you do things, "Ah, here are three apples, yummy! Now I'm going to walk to the front door. I'll bet it will take me 10 steps. Let's see, 1, 2.... ." This might get your child at least interested. Bit by bit you might bring him in. But don't worry if you don't. It takes time and each child is different.

Think about this activity this week and let me know how it works for you! I always enjoy hearing your variations on it. Also let me know if it didn't work and why you think it didn't. Send your emails to: info@biculturalfamily.org.