Why Afrikaans matters
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Explain the importance simply: learners must pass Afrikaans (First Additional Language) to be promoted in high school, and it can affect matric results, university entry and future job opportunities.
Make it relevant: point out similarities with Dutch, Flemish and German to spark curiosity, for example, common words like “huis/house” and “hand/hand” look familiar to those languages.
Create a positive home attitude
Model positivity: children mirror your attitude. Say encouraging things like “Let’s see what you learned today” rather than “Oh no, Afrikaans again.”
Keep expectations firm but kind: even if they don’t enjoy Afrikaans, a steady, supportive approach and consistent effort make a big difference.
Daily language habits
Read together every day: any Afrikaans reading helps — newspapers, news websites, comics, magazines (try comparing the same article in You and Huisgenoot), or short stories. Let them choose topics they like.
Watch Afrikaans TV with English subtitles: soapies and news help link words to pictures and context.
Listen to Afrikaans radio or podcasts: short daily exposure builds listening skills.
Use Afrikaans on devices: switch computer or phone language settings and enable Afrikaans spell-check.
Speak and practise Afrikaans at home
Keep phrases simple and frequent: give short commands in Afrikaans, e.g., “Maak jou bed” (make your bed), “Borsel jou tande” (brush your teeth).
If you don’t speak Afrikaans, encourage conversation with Afrikaans-speaking friends or tutors.
Quick daily check-ins: ask your child to explain what they covered in Afrikaans class that day and show you their workbook.
Study routines and monitoring
Ensure homework is completed and correct: review, sign or spot-check work regularly.
Test and drill: practise vocabulary and spelling with short quizzes, flashcards or apps — 5–10 minutes daily is better than long, infrequent sessions.
Focus on comprehension: after reading or listening, ask 3 simple questions (who, what, why/how) to check understanding.
Use tools and resources
Carry a compact Afrikaans–English dictionary or use a reputable app.
Use spell-check and grammar tools set to Afrikaans on the computer.
Find child-friendly Afrikaans podcasts, YouTube channels, or radio programs.
Language tips that help learning
Remember Afrikaans is largely phonic: words are usually spelled how they sound — encourage sounding out unfamiliar words.
Look for rules and patterns: Afrikaans is logical; identifying grammar or spelling rules helps in tests.
Note letter usage: c, q and x are rare except in borrowed words.
Practice consistently: small daily practice sessions build fluency. Don’t give up — progress adds up.
Simple activities to try (examples)
Daily 10-minute “woordjag” (word hunt): pick one theme (family, food, school), find five Afrikaans words, use each in a short sentence.
TV + speak-back: watch a 5–10 minute clip with subtitles, then ask your child to summarise it in Afrikaans (2–3 sentences).
Mini spelling bee: weekly 5-word spelling check with rewards for improvement.
Two-language comparison: choose a short article in Afrikaans and English, read both and list 5 similar words or phrases.
Shani Morris
Afrikaans Tutor and Children's Author
South Africa
Cape-Town
Afrikaans FAL Tutor
shaniross2@gmail.com
