You can help kids learn English as a second language by adapting your lessons to their needs and enthusiasm. Use language suited to their age level and topics that interest them. Incorporate listening and speaking with games, action and music. Teach reading and writing by using a variety of techniques and activities. Overall, use methods that mirror their first-language learning so that mastery of English grammar flows naturally.

Tailor your lessons to the kids' ages, language backgrounds and native cultures. Choose materials at their age level and topics of interest to their age group. If the kids like cartoons, sports or collecting, address their interests or hobbies. Whether the students come from one nationality or many, show sensitivity to their cultures, and include their holidays and customs in your lesson plans.

Use a natural approach to teaching English that mirrors how the children are learning their first language. Emphasize listening, then speaking. Teach spoken language before written language. Language acquisition expert Stephen D. Krashen states that some learners may only listen at the beginning of their instruction. Have patience with students who postpone speaking.

Use conversation and games in teaching children. Teach concepts such as apologizing, asking for permission or asking for information. Role-play activities such as going to the dentist or doctor. Depending on their ages, play various memory games, word games or charades.

Use music and action games to make learning fun. Use songs such as "Itsy, Bitsy Spider," "London Bridge" and "Heads and Shoulders, Knees and Toes" to get students involved physically. Don't forget non-musical games likes "Simon Says." These can allow students who are slow to speak in English to respond nonverbally. Make physical activity, music and fun a daily part of class.

Teach reading and writing in a variety of ways to address all learning styles. Use the sounds of the letters or phonics, children's literature and story-writing. For literature, try traditional stories, nursery rhymes and poetry intended for slightly younger children. Help children to write simple stories of their own and read them to each other. Make sure you combine writing with speaking and listening in other activities. For example, they can write a picnic menu or a shopping list.

Help children learn grammar naturally, as a part of conversations, activities and authentic language. Don't make it a separate subject. Model correct English, and correct students' errors with an accepting attitude. Let children learn English grammar the same way they learned their first language. Keep learning fun so they enjoy English class.