If learning a language goes through the acquisition of theoretical knowledge such as grammar rules, syntax, spelling of words and conjugation, it takes on its full meaning when the individual is given the possibility of using it on a daily basis. Thus, irregular verbs in English, just like declensions in German, become less off-putting when put into practice. Moreover, these often abstract notions in the classroom or in books are used in playful contexts, allowing everyone to use the theoretical notions acquired and to self-correct as they go along.
A language exchange is also an opportunity to practice listening in the language of the country. Listening comprehension being one of the key steps to be taken in the context of learning a language, young and old are often much more comfortable and confident after having carried out a language exchange during which they learn, little by little, to improve their ability to understand a foreign language.
It goes without saying that a language is intimately linked to the culture of the country that uses it. In addition, each language is declined differently according to a region and gives rise to new accents, new popular expressions, new vocabulary terms... It is by interfering in a country, by means of a language exchange in particular, that it is possible to appreciate the richness of a language at the same time as the culture and lifestyle of the inhabitants. In total immersion in a family or even at the teacher's, for example, a linguistic exchange gives rise to exhilarating discoveries.
For children as for adults, the discovery of new habits, different from their own, encourage them to step out of their comfort zone and become aware of cultural differences. It is also an opportunity to realize that, in order to understand and open up to the world, mastering and fluently practicing a foreign language is vital.
How many tourists return from distant lands, delighted but frustrated not to have been able to interact with the inhabitants of the region or the country they visited? Speaking a foreign language is not limited to visiting tourist places and buying postcards... It is very often thanks to a language exchange that those who speak a foreign language fluently have been able to make unforgettable encounters, interact with fascinating people and open up to the world, whatever their starting level.
To break down the barriers that prevent us from communicating with others, to go beyond courteous greetings and to enrich ourselves with social relations in the language of the country by going the extra mile: these objectives are all part of the benefits of a language exchange. . In addition, seeing that others understand us when we speak their language, regardless of the level, is extremely rewarding.
Most French educational establishments, if they wish to give importance to foreign languages, unfortunately do not allow everyone to express themselves orally as much as is necessary to progress. In the business world, the same is true and managers often say they are frustrated at not being able to practice a foreign language more, exposed to communication difficulties when they have to meet employees or business partners to a meeting, seminar or conference. Thus, even those who have good writing skills have difficulty expressing themselves when they have the opportunity, aware of the gaze of the other, constantly comparing themselves to others and quickly withdrawing into yourself so that you don't make any more mistakes.
A language exchange is an opportunity to dare to speak a language but above all to see that others welcome the effort made to express themselves in their language, without paying attention to errors or to the French accent which bothers us so much in our classrooms and in our businesses!
How to choose a language exchange within an Irish host family with HEBE Adventures?
Language stays in Ireland are the best solution for your child to discover the country's culture while speaking English on a daily basis. He will then be directly in contact with a way of life that he did not know or knew very little about before. Orally, significant progress can then be noted from the second week of the stay in general. A very enriching experience from all points of view that your child will remember forever!
At HEBE Adventures, our very complete range of language stays for children and teenagers allows you to make your choice throughout the year. You can be sure that your child will benefit from a program perfectly adapted to his requirements as well as to yours.
Thus, our very complete range of language stays for children and teenagers allows you to make your choice throughout the year. You can be sure that your child will benefit from a program perfectly adapted to his requirements as well as to yours.
The selection we make to choose language stays in Ireland is based above all on the network we have in the country that makes up our range of stays. Our local correspondents, present all year round on site, work intensively to select the families where your child will certainly feel comfortable during his language stay in Ireland. Our requirements and our seriousness allow us to offer you very high quality family language stays where your child will enjoy while learning a new language.
That said, you can fully trust HEBE Adventures to find you the perfect English pen pal for your child's language exchange in Ireland, so that you both have a great holiday and have an English accent at the same time.
So what are you waiting for to find the perfect language exchange for your son or daughter? Join us now.