Having a second language is always going to look great on your nanny CV and will position you well for a wider range of international childcare roles. But what’s the best way to polish up your vocab or pick up a brand new language from scratch? Language experts say that basic language communication skills can be honed in a matter of weeks, so there’s no time like the present to start learning – and sparkling up that CV. Here are a few starting points for you: we recommend trying a couple of these tactics at once.
-
Language Apps: You’ll find an app suitable for anyone who wants to learn a language these days – from those who learn best through visual memory games to learners who need lots of audio input. Memrise lets you play language games with friends, and Babbel has a speech-recognition feature for checking your pronunciation.
-
Immersion: Even a week abroad can make a huge difference to your language skills if you resist that urge to speak your own language. Enrol in a week-long language school, join a volunteer program abroad, or simply book yourself a little holiday and make the effort to chat with the locals – in their language.
-
Classes: Evening classes were once the only real solution to learning a new language in your spare time. Traditional language lessons are great for those who struggle with motivation and need to set aside a fixed time and space for regular learning. A Google search will bring up plenty of options for language evening classes in local colleges and language schools, as well as casual ‘conversation groups’ meeting in restaurants and coffee shops.
-
Skill Swaps: Chances are, there are other nannies in your area who are keen to learn your language better, and can teach you their language in exchange. Check out local community pages like Gumtree or your local Facebook groups too for potential new language buddies - though always take care when meeting someone new and always meet up in a public place. Look out for language exchange events like Franglish: a cross between foreign language lessons and speed-dating!
- Read Everything: Another way to immerse yourself in a new language without travelling far is to read in your chosen language: children’s books, comics, magazines, blogs, recipes – you name it. Read the news online in your chosen language or subscribe to the national newspapers for the country you’re keen to learn the language for.
Do you use a second language in your work as a nanny? How did you learn the language? Come and let us know on our Facebook page – and do get in touch with us if you’d like to update your nanny CV or register with us as a nanny. Email us at info@nanniesofstjames.com