Austrian group boosts early language skills for children
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In Austria, the Startklar association supports children’s language development in the regions of Lower Austria, Vienna, and Burgenland. Since 2018, the initiative has reached over 8,500 children through more than 1,150 language courses, offering programs ranging from playgroups for preschoolers to classes for elementary and middle school students.
Startklar also involves parents and educators in its work, recognizing that language skills begin developing in early childhood through family and community.
The group uses playful methods to teach language, such as bringing props related to a lesson’s theme so children can learn vocabulary while focusing on grammar. Reading is a key component, with projects like “Reading with All Senses” encouraging children to act out scenes from stories and fostering a love of books at home. The association works in small groups of six to eight children, creating a safe environment where they feel more comfortable speaking.
Janine Fischer, the managing director of Startklar, noted that many children first begin speaking German within these groups. The program also aims to improve children’s social skills. Startklar emphasizes that growing up multilingual is an asset, not a disadvantage, and that children should develop strong skills in all of their languages.
Lisa-Maria Sommer-Fein, general secretary of the MEGA Education Foundation, stated that multilingualism is “an absolute gift and an enrichment.” The association also works to support educational institutions, addressing a need for more knowledge about how to best support multilingual children.
