Greeting someone — Foreign languages, 4–6 years
Learn how to open a friendly conversation in a new language. Foreign languages, 4–6 years.
A greeting opens the door
A greeting is a small word or phrase we use when we meet someone. In a new language, we listen for its sound, look at the person, and say it back. “Hello” and “Good morning” can both begin a friendly moment.
Why do we greet?
People need a simple way to show, “I see you, and I am ready to talk.” Greetings solve that first, sometimes awkward moment when two people meet. The exact words differ between languages, but the friendly purpose is much the same.
Try a greeting
Imagine that Ana meets Leo at the door. First, Ana looks at Leo and says “Hello”. Next, Leo listens, smiles, and answers “Hello”. Finally, they can add “Good morning” if it is early; the important step is using one greeting when they meet.
The greeting can feel strange
A child may stay silent or use the greeting from their home language. That is reasonable: the new sound is unfamiliar, and the brain first reaches for the word it already knows. Listen once more, copy slowly, and use the new word without worrying about a perfect accent.
Greetings outside school
You can use a new-language greeting at the door, in a video call, or when meeting a visitor. A traveller may hear several greetings in one day. Use the greeting that belongs to the language being spoken, then watch the other person’s face and listen for their reply.
Keep exploring
Other languages
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