English language games for children Archives - Kids English Theatre

Game of the Week – Count and Balance

brandparvindarsaini — Mon, 26 Aug 2019 15:39:49 +0000

Sometimes the simplest games are the most fun.
Count and Balance (suitable for children 4+)
You’ll need your trusty magic wand for this game.
– Have everyone standing in a circle.
– Explain that they are going to count to 50 (10 for younger children) standing on one leg with their eyes closed!
– If anyone loses their balance, falls over or puts a foot on the ground they’re out and have to sit down. The winner is the last person standing.
NB:
– When I say “out” I really mean children sit on the floor but continue counting along (practicing) with the rest of the class.
– Children are naturally competitive and sometimes won’t spontaneously admit to losing their balance – this is when your trusty magic wand comes in handy to lightly tap a child on their head if you catch them out:)

A tricky but fun activity for counting practice, days of the week or months of the year.

Hope you enjoy playing it.
Happy teaching and be theatrical
Miranda xx
Free Ebook Teach Children English Through Drama ==> http://www.kidsenglishtheatre.com/free-ebook/

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Times are changing for TimeOut

brandparvindarsaini — Mon, 15 Jul 2019 15:10:50 +0000

A few years ago “timeout” was considered a successful approach to managing children’s misbehaviour. Now it looks like time’s up for timeout! There’s a debate currently going on about classroom management in UK pre-schools and whether to ban the word “naughty” and the idea of using the “naughty step” which has negative connotations and instead use a more holistic approach.

Effective classroom management is key to teaching successfully. But while there are some teachers who have a natural ability to manage classes others have to work really hard and it. And with so many contrasting theories and opinions out there -it’s hard to know which method to use.

I personally don’t think there is ONE secret to successfully managing classes. Kids are all unique and (often) so is their behaviour.
I use various classroom management strategies to reinforce positive behaviour and I start early – during demo/trial lessons.

My motto is …Set children up for success …..

I don’t assume children know how to behave in my class (at home they may act very differently) so I need to show them and help them understand what I expect from them the moment they walk through the door.

Introduction strategy:

– Introduce 5-6 basic rules (routines) in the first lesson.
– Repeat and practice routines (practice makes perfect.)
– Be consistent upholding rules. (no MEANS no, wait MEANS wait)
– Always use a positive voice and relaxed body language (kids can sense when you’re not in control of the class by your body language)
– Reward positive behaviour

And:
– Avoid labelling a child as “difficult” – always give him/her a fresh start next lesson. (when children are labelled difficult/problematic, they’re more likely to act so)

Proactive communication works best for me but we all have different teaching styles – the important thing is finding the right strategy that works best for you

Be theatrical
Miranda xx

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Teach Children English with Drama Ice-breakers // Kids English Theatre

brandparvindarsaini — Thu, 20 Jun 2019 12:58:26 +0000

Looking for fresh ideas to teach young language learners?

Try using drama to break the ice with a new group. Drama encourages children of all levels and abilities to join in and try new things.
Drama:

– Surprises
– Motivates
– Involves
– Breaks the ice
– Introduces new language
– Makes learning fun and memorable

Resources:

FREE E-Book “Teach Children English Through Drama- 4 Steps to Getiitng Started” http://www.kidsenglishtheatre.com/fre…

Teacher Training Courses http://www.kidsenglishtheatre.com/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/KidsEnglishTheatre/

#learn #englishlessons #teacher

Thanks for watching Teach Children English with Ice-breakers // Kids English Theatre

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The secret to teaching children English

brandparvindarsaini — Tue, 11 Jun 2019 14:58:05 +0000

If you have an after-school program or you’re planning on opening one soon – one of the biggest challenges you’ll probably face is getting new students to enrol.

Years ago, when I first started teaching children in Italy it was simple and effortless getting new students mainly because there were few (if any) after school language programs in town specifically dedicated to children. It was either me or the football club:)

Today the situation is completely different. Everywhere you look there are new kids language courses, labs, camps, parties, clubs… popping up every day and consequently the competition is fierce.

The secret to persuading potential new students to choose you and not someone else is…….

Be Unique!!.

Identify your personal strengths and use them to stand out from the rest.

Every year I have waiting lists for my after school programs and I’m contstantly offered work in schools not because I’m the best English teacher in town (far from it) but because I learnt early on how to use my acting training and communication skills to make my English Theatre courses one-of-a-kind and unique to me. My market is a niche market but it’s in high demand!

You too have a secret uniqueness that can distinguish you from everyone else. Maybe you just need a helping hand to discover what it is.

….Come and join me and other like- minded teachers in the next 5-Day Intensive Teacher Training Course 2-6 September, Florence Italy. ==>http://www.kidsenglishtheatre.com/5day-course/

This is an entirely practical course where you will play the protagonist
During the week you’ll have endless opportunities to develop and elaborate new creative teaching skills. You’ll build your confidence working with theatre techniques and above all you’ll discover where your secret talents lie and what kind of teacher you ultimately want to be.

Hold tight! It’s going to be an unforgettable experience.

CourseTopics Include:

• How to teach English using drama techniques and language games
• Storytelling, role-play and puppets
• How to stage plays
• Using music to excite and engage
• How to become a successful communicator
• How to publicize and organize your own courses

Bookings are now open and an incredible Early Bird 30% discount is now on offer for a limited time.Please keep in mind places are also limited so book early!

For information and bookings click here ==> http://www.kidsenglishtheatre.com/5day-course/

Be theatrical and…be original
Miranda xx

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ESL Drama Game – Flashcard Limbo Dance

brandparvindarsaini — Tue, 11 Jun 2019 14:54:40 +0000

Children get restless and fidgety when they have to sit still for long periods of time, especially around this time of year.

The Flashcard Limbo Dance is an ideal way to revise vocab and get children physically active and emotionally engaged learning and speaking in English

Materials needed:
– A Bamboo stick (alternatively: broom stick, elastic or rope)
– Flashcards (animals, colours, rooms of the house, clothes, weather, etc…)
– Music (optional) Limbo rock works a treat!

1. Have 2 children standing holding the bamboo stick at either end

2. Have the rest of the group in a line standing in front of the bamboo stick

3. Hold up a flashcard if the first child in line guesses the correct vocab/phrase they can limbo dance under the stick (bending backwards, bending knees and without touching the bamboo stick with their bodies)

4. If they can’t name the flashcard, they must exchange places with one of the children holding up the limbo stick who in turn joins the rest of the group in line. This way children are “out” only temporarily.

5. Continue holding up flashcards for the group to guess correctly.

6. Every so often lower the limbo stick. Children love the challenge and added fun factor

A simple but effective game that children will want to play again and again.

Enjoy!
Miranda xx

P.S
If you like the idea of teaching children English through Drama but don’t know where to start – come and join me on the next 5-Day Intensive Teacher Training Course 2-6 September 2019 in Florence, Italy.

This is a one-of-a-kind practical course based on my pluri-annual experience as an actor, coach and Kids English Theatre Teacher. I’ve learnt first hand that teaching practice is key and this is what makes this training course original. I guarantee you’ll be physically and emotionally exhausted by the end of the week BUT you’ll leave with a suitcase packed full of inspiring ideas and newly found confidence to start teaching English through drama straight away.

Bookings are now open and there is an amaing Early Bird 30% Discount Offer (available for a limited time only or while bookings last.)

For information and bookings click here ==> http://www.kidsenglishtheatre.com/5day-course/

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5-Day Intensive Teacher Training Course 2-6 September 2019, Florence.

brandparvindarsaini — Tue, 11 Jun 2019 14:45:51 +0000

Are you feeling exhausted and super frazzled? Brain fog? Impatient? Nerves on end? It’s a sure sign the school year if nearly at its end and so are your energy levels!

It’s easy to underestimate just how challenging (and energy sapping) teaching kids a second language can be, right?! But then again there is no other more gratifying and fun job in the world.

Saying that – we still all need a holiday at the end of the year! Just enough time to recharge our batteries, reflect and plan another exciting year ahead.

After a well-deserved break, what better time than the beginning of September to get you started in the right direction and take your teaching to the next “theatrical” level

I’m excited to announce the dates for the next

5-Day Intensive Teacher Training Course
2-6 September 2019, Florence.

I always see September as a month full of new opportunities and new beginnings and this unique course promises to help you change the way you teach forever!

Bookings are now open and there is an amazing Early Bird Special Offer available for a limited time only or while bookings last.
For information and bookings ==> http://www.kidsenglishtheatre.com/5day-course/

The 5-day Intensive one-of -a-kind training experience is held only once a year and tickets tend to sell out quickly so if you’re interested in participating, I recommend booking early so as not be disappointed.

Feel free to drop me a line if you need further information
Be theatrical!
Miranda

Resources: Free E-book- Teach Children English Through Drama
==> http://www.kidsenglishtheatre.com/free-ebook/

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New Kids English Theatre Certified Teachers

brandparvindarsaini — Tue, 11 Jun 2019 14:42:23 +0000

One of my favourite pics from the last teacher training course. Participants concluded the 3-Step program by learning how to stage and organise a performance with young English language learners. Scripts, costumes, props and make-up were a few of the many topics covered during the weekend.

Big congratulations also go to the freshly qualified Kids English Theatre (Certified) Teachers who completed the program on Sunday with their Mock Lesson.
A talented and passionate group who truly gave it their all.

Kids English Theatre Teacher Training ==> http://www.kidsenglishtheatre.com/
Free E-book Teach Children English Through Drama==> http://www.kidsenglishtheatre.com/free-ebook/

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Crush the Fear of Speaking in English – ESL Drama

brandparvindarsaini — Tue, 11 Jun 2019 14:40:40 +0000

We are all afraid of something.
Some people have a fear of flying, others a fear of snakes or spiders.
I’m personally petrified of rollercoasters, parachuting and bungee jumping (not that I have ever done the last two … I’m too AFRAID!)

Research shows us that one of people’s top fears (way above bungee jumping) is speaking in public.
I can believe it.

I often see people literally fall to pieces when asked to get up on a stage and speak in front of an audience and the older we get the worse the fear.

Children, however are naturally less self-conscious speaking in front of others. They are curious and animated and open to trying new things. Most importantly children haven’t yet developed the fear of “being wrong”.

Toddlers spontaneously play- act and role-play, it’s their instinctive way of making sense of the world in which they live and understanding the characters that surround them.

By continually encouraging children to act-out their emotions on stage, walk in other’s shoes and interpret weird and wonderful voices we help kids grow-up feeling relaxed and super confident expressing themselves in English in any situation even when confronted with BIG audiences.

Theatre is the ultimate solution to crushing the fear of speaking in English in public. So, let’s start acting!

As Mary Poppins once said
“Anything can happen, if you let it”

Be theatrical!
Miranda xx

Resources:
Free E-book Teach Children English Through Drama ==> http://www.kidsenglishtheatre.com/free-ebook/
Teacher Training Courses ==> http://www.kidsenglishtheatre.com/teacher-training-courses/

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20 Ways To Say Hello – ESL Drama Game

brandparvindarsaini — Tue, 11 Jun 2019 14:36:23 +0000

20 Ways To Say Hello

is a fun routine to open English sessions/Summer Camps and get children (ages 6+) focused and energised.

1) First, give each child one of the following greetings:

Hello

Hey, there!

Good Morning

Good afternoon

Good evening

Welcome

Great to see you

What’s up?

What’s new?

How are you?

G’ day

How’s tricks?

Long time no see

How is it going?

How are things?

Howdy

Hiya

How are you doing today?

Greetings

2) Next, ask each child to create a short physical action to accompany their greeting

For example:

– Hello (hand wave)

– Hi (thumbs up)

– Hey, there!(high five)

– Good Morning (theatrical bow)

– Good afternoon (fist-pump)

– What’s up? (turn-around and jump)

Encourage children to interpret goofy voices and be as theatrical, dramatic or comical as possible.

3) At the beginning of each session have everyone stand in a circle. Randomly choose a child to lead the group by jumping into the middle and greeting the group with their “unique hello and action”.

4) The group follows the leader by mirroring the greeting and gesture.

5) Continue around the circle choosing a different leader each time.

This game helps children learn 20 different ways to say HELLO in no time (21 if you add my personal favourite… “Aloha” just for fun ). It also boosts children’s self confidence by giving them opportunities to play leader and take centre stage.

N.B. Keep the atmosphere bristling with energy. Greetings should be zipped through in a couple of minutes… not 20!

Check out an alternative version “Copy My Name” in my E-book: Teach Children English Through Drama ==> http://www.kidsenglishtheatre.com/free-ebook/

Quick reminder…

If you’re organising an end of term show this Spring (and panicking) or thinking about hosting a Summer Camp this year (and at a loss for what to do)…

Don’t miss out on the next..

Teacher Training Masterlcass dedicated to

Course Topics Include:

• Getting started – acting in English

• Where to perform

• Choosing a Theme /Titles Plays

• How to select and adapt a script for young language learners

• 10-minute comedy sketches

• Staging a play

• How to make rehearsals run smoothly

• Costumes, sets and prop examples and ideas

• Make-up Design

• Publicity

• Backstage preparations on the day of performance

For more details and bookings ==> http://www.kidsenglishtheatre.com/teacher-training-courses/

Or drop me a line

Be theatrical!

Miranda

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How do children adopt a spectacular English accent?

brandparvindarsaini — Tue, 11 Jun 2019 14:22:16 +0000

How do children adopt a spectacular English accent?Simple, by learning through imitation.
Toddlers learn their first language by mirroring how their parents speak and copying their sounds, intonation, inflection, rhythm and musicality. Only after they have grasped these fundamental verbal skills do they start learning how to read and write.

This imitation approach can be successfully applied to learning a secondlanguage especially as we all know reading and speaking English are two completely different things and the less speaking practice children get, the harder they’ll find pronouncing English later on.

This is why speaking skills need to be practiced and developed very early on

In my English and Drama sessions emphasis is principally on children’s verbal and physical communication. Lessons are structured in an open space (there are no desks, chairs, paper or pens) and children are encouraged to express themselves through speaking, singing, acting, playing and moving.

Imitation plays a key role in sessions and even when preparing kid’s performances scripts are handed out only 2 weeks before the opening night.
Give children a script too early and they get dependent on it, they become super focused on reading their lines and less focused on understanding why they are saying them. Scripts also tend to physically block children and their pronunciation often goes haywire!

Verbal script prompting is a theatre technique that encourages children to imitate and pronounce English naturally with fun and ease.
This performance topic and many more will be developed in the next Weekend Masterlcass Staging a Children’s Play 18-19th May 2019 , Florence.

Come and join the fun. It will give you loads of practical, inspiring tips and tricks on how to improve children’s fluency and make SHOWTIME a pleasure and a breeze for everyone involved.

Be theatrical!
Miranda xx

For more info and bookings ==> http://www.kidsenglishtheatre.com/teacher-training-courses/

Free E-Book Teach Children English Through Drama ==> http://www.kidsenglishtheatre.com/free-ebook/

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