The First Lesson: How We Introduce English to Kids Who’ve Never Heard It

them in English.

These games aren’t just for entertainment—they’re language learning disguised as play . And that’s powerful.

Step 5: Build Confidence with Repetition and Routine

The first week of English is all about repetition.

We use the same phrases every day:

• “Good morning!”

• “How are you?”

• “My name is…”

We follow the same routines:

• Greeting circle

• Picture review

• Game time

• Storytime with gestures

Repetition creates familiarity. Familiarity builds comfort. Comfort leads to participation.

Soon, students start saying things unprompted. One boy might wave and say “Bye!” at the end of class. A girl might tap her friend and whisper “Hi!” with a grin. These are the moments teachers live for—the first sparks of communication.

Step 6: Tell Stories—Even Without Books

Storytelling is one of the oldest and most powerful ways to teach language. At HTE, we start telling stories from Day One—even if we don’t have a book.

We use story bags , which are filled with small props related to a simple story. For example, a bag might contain a toy cat, a ball, and a box. As we tell the story, we pull out each item and describe it:

• “This is a cat.”

• “The cat sees a ball.”

• “The cat jumps into the box.”

We pause often, letting students predict what happens next. We invite them to repeat key phrases. Sometimes, we let them act out the story.

Another technique is total physical response (TPR) storytelling, where students move along with the story. If the character runs, they run. If the character sleeps, they curl up on the floor. This makes the language come alive—and easier to remember.

Step 7: Celebrate Every Word

There’s no such thing as too small a victory in that first English class.

A child who says “Hi” for the first time deserves applause. A student who repeats “blue” after seeing a color card deserves high-fives. A shy learner who finally raises their hand deserves celebration.

At HTE, we believe in positive reinforcement . We clap, we cheer, we reward effort—not just accuracy. Because when students feel good about trying, they try more.

Why This Works

This approach works because it’s built on psychological and educational principles:

• Krashen’s Input Hypothesis tells us that language is acquired when learners understand messages slightly above their current level.

• Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development shows that students learn best when guided by someone more knowledgeable—like a teacher or peer.

• Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs reminds us that students need safety and belonging before they can focus on learning.

HTE’s first English lesson addresses all of these. It gives students comprehensible input , scaffolds their learning, and makes them feel safe and valued.

Final Thoughts: 

Imagine walking into a world where nothing makes sense. Now imagine someone reaching out with a smile, a gesture, and a kind voice saying your name.

That’s what HTE does. We don’t throw kids into English—we invite them in , step by step, with patience, play, and purpose.

From the first hello to the first sentence, we’re not just teaching language—we’re building trust, sparking curiosity, and opening doors to a whole new way of communicating.

And that’s how it all begins.