Tips for Keeping Kids Engaged in Online English Lessons | Motivation Boosters Aimed at Eiken Grade 5
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Introduction
Many parents struggle with the fact that their children start online English lessons with enthusiasm, only to lose interest before they know it.
It was the same in our home.
My daughter, currently in first grade, continues her online English lessons with the goal of passing Eiken Grade 5. At first, it was fresh and she enjoyed learning through songs and games, but after a few weeks, her concentration began to wane.
That was when I re-evaluated how we set goals.
Although we have the goal of Eiken Grade 5, setting concrete goals that build up a sense of "I did it!" really boosted my daughter's motivation.
I would like to introduce the "online English lesson goal-setting method" we use in our home while aiming for Eiken Grade 5.
Why do children stop taking online English lessons?
The reason many children stop learning English is that the "goal is hard to see."
It is difficult to see results in English in a short period, and there are no clear evaluations like test scores or report cards.
Because of this, both parents and children tend to feel anxious, wondering, "Even though we're doing it, are we actually improving?"
Furthermore, if the purpose of learning English remains vague, daily lessons just become a chore to get through.
This is the same as dieting or studying for certifications as an adult; clarifying "why you are learning" and "what you are aiming for" becomes the power to keep going.
The first step to continuing is to decide on a "purpose"
To continue learning English, the trick is to think in the order of "Purpose" → "Goal" → "Action".
For example,
Purpose: I want to be able to talk to people from overseas in the future
Goal: Pass Eiken Grade 5 while in first grade
Action: Continue 25-minute online English lessons once a day
By breaking it down into concrete actions like this, it becomes easier to feel a sense of daily accomplishment.
Especially in the lower grades, it is important to increase experiences where they feel "I did it!" or "I was able to speak!"
It is also recommended to make your goals "action goals," such as "use three English phrases in one lesson" or "try asking the teacher a question."
A real-life example from our home: A step-up method aimed at Eiken Grade 5
In our home, we continue our online lessons mainly using kimini English.
Since it is operated by the Gakken Group, it features a curriculum linked to school English that is very easy to understand.
My daughter is currently aiming for Eiken Grade 5.
Kimini English Conversation's materials include an Eiken preparation course, allowing for a balanced study of vocabulary, listening, and speaking.
She is currently in her second week of the 'Eiken Grade 5 Preparation Course.' Compared to the first week, her understanding of vocabulary and grammar has become more apparent.
I set the 25-minute lesson as the 'mission of the day' and ask her about anything she didn't understand after it's finished.
I also listen in while doing other things during the lesson, so I can talk to her about what went well.
By praising her, a sense of accomplishment builds up, which leads to a positive mindset of 'I'll do my best next time too!'
See the growth! Ideas for maintaining motivation at home
When continuing English conversation lessons, incorporating ways to 'visualize' growth will help children gain confidence.
Create a monthly review time
We review Eiken Grade 5 vocabulary.Set small rewards
Use 'experience-based' rewards, such as buying a favorite picture book after a month of consistency, or having a favorite sushi dinner.
These small, steady steps are the secret to long-term success.
Recommended online English conversation services to support your goals
Choosing an online English service that matches your child's personality and learning style will significantly increase the ease of continuing.
Our family also decided after first trying out various online English services.
I have summarized the features and free trial links for each.
[Kimini English Conversation] Reliable support from the Gakken Group
Strong in school English and Eiken preparation, with a systematic curriculum that makes learning straightforward.
The appeal is that lesson progress is easy to see, making it easy for parents to follow along.
👉 Gakken's Online English Conversation Kimini EnglishClick here for a free trial
[Cloudy] Lessons for the whole family
The appeal is that it can be shared by the family, allowing siblings and parents to split lessons.
Recommended for those who want to enjoy 'English with the whole family' as an extension of home learning.
👉 Online English Conversation shared by the family [Cloudy] Click here for a free trial
[NovaKid] Lessons with overseas instructors that feel like a game
With cheerful instructors and a curriculum full of game elements, children can continue without getting bored.
Perfect for families who want to develop an 'English ear' while playing.
👉 Click here for a free trial of this US-based online English service for children
[Hatchlink Junior] Peace of mind for beginners with Japanese instructors
Ideal for shy children or those trying online English for the first time.
Since Japanese instructors provide support, even parents who are not good at English can feel at ease.
👉 [Hatchlink Junior] Free trial now available!
[QQEnglish] For children who want to master pronunciation and accuracy
Based in a language school in Cebu. All instructors hold TESOL certifications and are strong in pronunciation correction.
Recommended for children who want to prepare for Eiken or improve their speaking skills.
👉 Click here for a free QQEnglish trial
Summary
In English learning, it is more important to "accumulate small achievements" than to "get results in the short term."
As we did in our home, setting a clear goal like "Eiken Grade 5" makes the learning path visible and leads to the child's own motivation.
It is okay if they cannot speak well at first.
Let's enjoy the process of English becoming a part of daily life while sharing the joy of doing a little better than yesterday as parent and child.
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👉 Check out the free trial for kimini English Conversation