Suggestions for/with children
- When you are in the house or in the car, why not put on the radio or play a CD with Dutch music? Many libraries offer CDs with children's songs in Dutch. Specially designed for children learning Dutch, the ReisRus CD includes a booklet with games and exercises to go with the songs.
- Watch TV programmes with your children. The Ketnet and VTM Kids channels are worthwhile, as they feature informative, light-hearted programmes using simple Dutch. Tune on to Ketnet's Karrewiet, a daily news programme for children.
- Enrol your children in a language immersion programme or a language course or workshop. Ask for information at the arts or community centre, at the municipal office or ask a teacher at school.
- Get your child to join a Dutch-speaking sports club or association. Pay a visit to your municipality's website for further details. You may also seek information from your municipality's sports, cultural or youth services. The sports dictionary Mijn kind wil sporten will help you to find a suitable sports club. The football dictionary features words and illustrations related to football.
- Go and see a family show or a film in Dutch at the arts centre or community centre. The programme is generally shown in a brochure or a newssheet issued by the municipality. You may also visit www.uitmetvlieg.be to look for an activity.
- Read Dutch-language books with your child. If you do not have any at home, head for the library, where you can also find entertaining games and a Taalpunt (Language Point). If youdo not speak really good Dutch yourself, read out loud in your mother tongue. It is important for the development of your child's language skills.
- You can also practice Dutch with your child when you go to the bakery or the butcher’s, for example. Before you set off, prepare a shopping list in Dutch. Older children who can already speak a bit of Dutch, may ask for a loaf of bread at the bakery. The pictogram book N°1 has words and illustrations to help you compile your shopping list.