KIKI’S LANGUAGE ADVENTURE: PLAY- BASED VOCABULARY LEARNING FOR YOUNG MINDS
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COURSE DESCRIPTION
Welcome to a joyful and research-based approach to early language learning! This course introduces a fun, practical, and multisensory method to teaching foreign language vocabulary to children aged 3 to 8, using the lovable character Kiki the Parrot. Built around the proven four-step method by Verhallen & Vermeer, this course blends storytelling, music, games, gestures, and visual aids to spark curiosity and boost retention. Whether you’re a teacher, a caregiver, or a parent, you’ll discover how to turn everyday moments into powerful language-learning adventures.
WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR?
This course is ideal for:
- Preschool and early elementary teachers working in bilingual, immersion, or EFL/ESL classrooms.
- Parents of young children who want to introduce a second language at home.
- Homeschool educators seeking playful, evidence-based language learning strategies.
- Language coaches or tutors focused on early childhood education.
- Childcare professionals aiming to incorporate language activities into their daily routines.
No previous teaching experience or fluency in multiple languages is required just a love for children and a desire to make learning fun!
COURSE LEARNING OUTCOMES:
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Understand how children aged 3–8 acquire foreign language vocabulary through play and sensory input.
- Implement the Four-Step Vocabulary Teaching Model (Verhallen & Vermeer) in real-world learning environments.
- Create a language-rich environment that supports repetition, emotional connection, and social interaction.
- Support multilingual children by integrating their home language as a bridge to new vocabulary.
- Evaluate children’s language comprehension and vocabulary growth in a stress-free, child-friendly way.
- TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Course Introduction
- MODULE 1: THE IMPORTANCE OF LANGUAGE LEARNING
- Introduction: The Power of Language Learning
- Cognitive Advantages of Language Learning
- Academic Achievement and Language Proficiency
- Emotional and Psychological Benefits
- Social Integration and Community Engagement
- Long-Term Benefits of Early Language Learning
- The Role of Parents and Educators
- Overcoming Challenges in Language Learning
- Practical Tips for Supporting Language Learning at Home
- Quiz
- MODULE 2: HOW CHILDREN’S BRAINS DEVELOP AND LEARN LANGUAGE
- The Rapid Growth of a Child’s Brain
- Experience Builds the Brain
- Brain Areas Involved in Language Learning
- Best Practices for Teaching Children in Multilingual or Minority Language Contexts
- Quiz
- MODULE 3: TEACHING FOREIGN LANGUAGES TO CHILDREN USING KIKI AND THE FOUR-STEP METHOD
- Making Language Learning Playful and Effective
- Meet Kiki – Your Child’s First Language Buddy
- The Four-Step Model by Verhallen & Vermeer: A Structured Approach to Vocabulary Teaching
- Integrating Kiki and the Four-Step Model: A Cohesive Approach
- Quiz
- Course Conclusion
COURSE INTRODUCTION
Imagine a classroom or living room filled with laughter, music, stories, and discovery. Children are dancing, drawing, pretending, and repeating new words with excitement. At the center of it all is Kiki the Parrot, a bright, friendly guide helping young learners build vocabulary in a new language without fear or pressure. In this course, you’ll be introduced to the dynamic world of playful vocabulary acquisition, inspired by leading research in child language development. We’ll explore the science behind how young brains learn best through movement, multisensory input, repetition, and meaningful social interaction. You’ll learn how to apply the Verhallen & Vermeer Four-Step Model Preparing, Explaining, Practicing, and Checking with simple tools and fun strategies. You’ll also discover how to weave in children’s natural creativity and curiosity, using Kiki’s world of songs, stories, and games as your guide. Whether you’re an educator in a formal classroom or a parent supporting your child at home, this course empowers you to turn everyday moments into powerful language lessons while keeping it light, joyful, and developmentally appropriate.