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Teach English to children: word lists, pronunciation and practice

These pages are for parents and teachers who teach English to young children, at home or in class, in any country. Each page gives one topic of first English words with spelling, pronunciation, a short example sentence and a quick on-screen practice.

Every page also has ideas for teaching the topic and the mistakes learners make most often. The same pages are available in other languages, with the meaning of every word, for families who are learning English as a second language.

Most used tools

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English vocabulary by topic

Start with the alphabet, numbers and colors, then add one topic a week. Tap the speaker button on any word to hear it.

Guides for teaching English

Step-by-step help for parents and teachers, with sources.

Free tools

Free tools for lessons: timers, pickers, word games, math charts and printable makers.

All tools (42)

Printables for practice

Our printable worksheets and workbooks are written in English: handwriting and alphabet tracing, phonics and first reading, numbers and early math. They are PDF downloads in US Letter and A4, sold through our Etsy shop.

See all printablesHandwriting & CursiveReading & PhonicsKindergarten1st GradeMathEarly Skills & Fine Motor

Questions and answers

What English words should a child learn first?

Start with words the child can see and use every day: the alphabet, numbers 1 to 10, colors, family words, animals, food and classroom objects. Add short phrases such as hello, please and thank you from the first week, because children can use them straight away.

How long should an English session be for a young child?

Keep sessions short and regular. The British Council advises that short, frequent sessions work better than long, infrequent ones, and says fifteen minutes is enough for very young children.

How do I use these word lists?

Pick one topic. Say each word, let the child listen to it with the speaker button and repeat it, then point to real things or pictures. Use the on-screen practice at the end, and come back to the same topic for a few minutes on other days.

Are the word lists in American or British English?

The main spelling is American English. Where British English uses a different word or spelling, such as colour, grey, trousers or autumn, the page shows it next to the word.

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