There are several ways that children acquire new vocabulary: from their parents and the other adults around them; from the lessons they learn and the people they interact with at school; and from the activities they enjoy during their free time. One of the most important things that parents can do for their children is to support them in all three of these areas:

Talk with them about what they’re doing, or reading, or thinking. Unless children are very young, you don’t need to simplify your normal vocabulary. It’s better to encourage children to ask when they don’t know a word you’ve used.

Get involved with homework and other school projects. Support children in their study habits and be available to answer questions.

Make it a habit to read books together to promote a love of reading. Reading is one of the best ways for children to improve vocabulary. Start by reading out loud to children, then pick books to read and discuss together.

We recognize that many parents don’t have a lot of free time themselves, and might find it hard to spend hours joining in their children’s “free time” activities. Parents are often relying on children to find their own activities, and in today’s wired world, that usually involves videos, computers, or televisions. However, this doesn’t mean that parents can’t have some influence on how children use those resources. By helping your child choose wisely from all of the different entertainment options available on line, you can help them learn and build vocabulary while having fun.

With that in mind, point children first to your local public television station. There are entire shows built around vocabulary building, and often these shows have associated online video games through the television station’s website. Here are some suggestions:

In the United States, PBS (the Public Broadcasting System) has a great “PBS Kids” outreach program, which includes the “Word Girl” video series and games, and dozens of vocabulary-themed games available through their website. There are puzzle games, word quizzes, and action games all based on vocabulary and spelling skills that will keep children entertained and educated.

The BBC (the British Broadcasting Corporation) also has a dedicated “CBBC” television program schedule for children of all ages, and English-language skill-building games on various parts of their BBC and CBBC websites, like the “Wordsearch” puzzle that helps children get an eye for words in the news.

If you’re in Australia, check out the game options like “Prose and Motion” on the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) web site, or watch the educational programs broadcast daily.

Most importantly, keep in mind that if you stay involved in your children’s lives and learning, they’ll make the most progress.