Teaching English Language to the Preschoolers: Teacher Trainings, Language, and Other Skills

Preschool children are often treated as raw soil. People believe we can mold them into any shape we desire. Teaching English to these children is a very challenging job, yet it is often seen as simple and easy. In schools, very few teachers enjoy teaching classes to preschoolers. Teaching English to preschoolers requires the adoption of various techniques, skills, and proceduqres; therefore, teachers must be prepared beforehand. To conduct this study qualitatively, six preschools were selected through clustered and convenience sampling. Data were collected through Focused Group Discussion (FGD). Bringing five teachers from each preschool, FGD was conducted with thirty teachers separately. After the discussion, it was found that English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teaching should start in the preschools. The earlier we start teaching English, the more likely children are to acquire all four language skills simultaneously with their mother tongue/native language. For this, qualified, trained, fluent, and skillful teachers are required. Teachers who have empathy, craft and creativity, communication skills, dedication, good management skills, and technological proficiency can teach the English language to preschoolers effectively. Beyond book reading and alphabet writing, children learn language effectively through games, dances, rhymes, project-based activities, and physical activities.