Frequently Asked Questions by Parents

What is Helen Doron Early English for Children?

• Helen Doron Early English is a unique method of teaching children to speak and understand English in the same way they learn their mother tongue - naturally, and with confidence and ease.
• When language learning first starts, babies hear words but don't actually understand them. Gradually, parents help them grasp the meaning of the sounds they have already absorbed. This learning is reinforced by positive behavior on the part of parents; such as smiles and hugs every time baby says a word within the correct context.

How does Helen Doron Early English reinforce learning?

• Helen Doron Early English has spent years developing exclusive learning sets designed by experts in linguistics and education to mimic the natural native language learning process, and motivate children of all ages through song, music, movement, games, special activities and more!
• Children hear correct English repeated during specially coordinated fun-filled activities and within an environment of encouragement. They may not pay close attention to the words or even try to understand them at first, but through repetition, the sounds, words and sentence structures become familiar. Children naturally acquire an understanding of the language as if by magic.

How are classes organized, and for what ages?

• Children from 3 months - 14 years are taught in small classes ranging from 4 - 8 children for each age group. Children receive plenty of individual attention and ample opportunity to express themselves within an encouraging group of fun new friends.
• The children learn the meaning of the sounds they have already internalized through specific games, activities and songs. Older children combine the same type of learning along with reading and writing skills.

Can special needs children learn English as a second language?

• Yes. Learning a second language at a young age is an effective way to greatly advance the development of all children, including children with types of autism and brain-damage.

Why should infants and young children learn English as a second or third language?

• There is much talk of a 'window' for learning language in children, and research has shown that by the age of six, the human brain has indeed achieved almost all of its significant growth. Learning a second language at a young age helps develop the child's brain pathways in the auditory cortex, stimulating general intelligence.
• Despite the complexity involved in the process of learning a language, a child usually masters one or more languages by the age of three or even younger. The younger the child, the easier and more natural it is to acquire a native-speaker-like mastery of accent and grammar.

What's the point in teaching an infant a second language when he doesn't yet speak his first?

• The 'optimal' time for babies to learn a second language appears to be 'at the same time as the first language'. An infant who hears and interacts in two languages will grow up understanding both. It is not uncommon for a baby to grow up learning three or four languages, and differentiate between them; such as knowing which language to use with Grandma.
• Recent research shows that the brains of multi-lingual people utilize more available neurons for language processing than monolinguals - which naturally expands brain activity as a whole.

Can I teach my own child English?

• It is preferable that children learn with a qualified Helen Doron Early English teacher; a highly trained expert dedicated to creating a rich, fun and successful learning environment for your child. In addition, children learn language better in a group, where they can communicate and have fun together. Remember, languages need to be spoken or they will be lost.
• At home, your role is to make sure that the unit of learning is played twice daily in the background so your child hears it often. You can engage your child in memory games and other cardboard games that are included in our activity books. Specially designed Helen Doron Early English games can be purchased from your teacher, or directly on our website.

 What are the advantages of Helen Doron Early English over an ordinary ESL program?

Only Helen Doron Early English classes offer:

• A proven method: Helen Doron Early English has benefited nearly half a million babies, toddlers and children worldwide, for over 20 years.
• Learning through fun: Exclusive learning-sets developed by experts, inspire through song, music, movement, games, special activities and more!
• Natural learning: Promotes pleasure in acquiring new skills, by enhancing engagement and motivation in all age ranges.
• Confidence building: Nurturing a child's natural disposition to learn through positive reinforcement and support, builds self esteem and enhances confidence.
• 10 English courses: 7 years spoken English for infants and children (optional reading and writing), 3 years spoken English plus reading and writing for older children.
• Attention to details: Children learn to cultivate the proper pronunciation, accent, grammar and vocabulary of native English speakers.
• Preparation for older children: Lessons include special preparation for passing international language examinations.