By Danitza Lazcano Flores – Chile

As an English teacher with 26 years of experience in both classroom and online settings, I’ve encountered countless myths about learning English that can hold students back. In this article, I want to share my personal views on these myths, hoping to inspire both young learners and their parents to embrace the language-learning journey.

Myth 1: “You Have to Start Learning English Before a Certain Age”

Many people believe that if you don’t start learning English by a certain age, you’ll never be able to speak it like a native. While it’s true that younger children often have an easier time acquiring languages due to their cognitive development and natural curiosity, it’s important to remember that attitude, consistency, quality of learning, and enjoyment play vital roles for everyone. Learning is a gradual process, and it’s never too late to start.

Myth 2: “I Can’t Speak English Because I Need to Know More Grammar” 

Teenagers often feel embarrassed to speak English in front of their peers, thinking comments like, “I need to know more grammar,” or “I don’t have enough vocabulary.” As a teacher, I’ve worked hard to help my students understand that focusing too much on grammar or vocabulary isn’t the key. No native speaker knows every single word! The goal should be effective communication. Mistakes in grammar, vocabulary, or pronunciation are just steps in the learning process. Being flexible and creative with the vocabulary you already have is what truly matters.

Myth 3: “I Have to Think in Spanish and Then Translate to English” 

This is a common mistake among young learners. Thinking in Spanish and translating leads to grammatical errors and unnatural phrases. The ideal approach is to think directly in English. This can be achieved by immersing yourself in the language through real-life contexts—at home, in school, or in other environments. Creating a direct connection between concepts and English words is crucial.

Myth 4: “Only Some People Have a Natural Gift for Learning Languages”

Some believe that only a select few have an innate talent for learning languages. This myth ties back to the first one. Fluency in a language is not just about genetic talent; it’s the result of effort, consistency, motivation, and exposure. Often, those who seem to have an easier time with languages are simply enjoying the process and have more opportunities to practice outside the classroom. Everyone can learn; we just need to find our spark.

Strategies for Support 

I’ve debunked the most common myths I’ve encountered during my years of teaching. There is no “magic age” to start learning English. Mistakes are not only welcome; they are essential! You don’t need a dictionary-sized vocabulary to start speaking. What matters is having supportive strategies in place.

In school, it’s important to create a safe space for experimentation, where making mistakes is part of the learning journey. This ignites curiosity and a desire to learn more. At home, parents and significant adults can show interest and provide support without needing to be bilingual. Listening to music, watching TV shows, playing video games, sending short messages, or looking up simple recipes in English for just a few minutes a day can reinforce what’s learned in class and help normalize the language.

Finally, let’s not overcorrect. Instead, we should foster empathy, helping students realize that speaking a second language is admirable and that everyone, including their teachers, is on a journey of growth. By dispelling these myths and ensuring a supportive environment, we can turn the anxiety around making mistakes into the excitement of communication.

Let’s stop chasing perfection and start seeking conversation!

Got questions? Don’t be shy! Reach out to us at anglosaxon.younglearners@gmail.com and we’ll help you out!”

– English Teachers