Hello, Friends.
I hope you are enjoying your summer break. We wrapped up May and the kids here in Indiana are finished with school, for the most part. Summer camps and classes are beginning to kick in as well as vacations. You are not off the hook---Review and brush up on basics.
Events
Kids English Meeting: Friday, June 13, 6-6:30 PM on Zoom
Clay Middle School MLL (Multilingual Learners) Family Night: Wednesday, August 27, 6:20-7:45. Mark your calendar and join us at our table to invite local neighbors to our classes and meetings. Meet new friends. Eat delicious food.
American English and Culture
Get back to basics this summer. Craft clear, confidant conversation. Relax and take control of your language(s).
It Begins with You. You Got This!
Do not be afraid. As a speaker of any language, you are an experienced professional. Every day you add new words and learn new phrases and ways of talking (communicating). The label of American English (or any other language, for that matter) does not need to be intimidating. This is the key; it is not the language it is your state of mind or state of emotion.
- New words in new places: You encounter new words in new situations every day. Think about a visit to Starbucks!
- Difficult topics: It is hard to talk about things that are important in any language (even your home language). Think about any conversation involving money.
- Stressful and emotional situations: It is difficult to find the right words (in any language) when the situation is stressful or emotional. Think about getting in a minor car accident.
- Uncomfortable or awkward moments: It is uncomfortable to say or do the "wrong" thing. Think about when someone goes in for a hug and you go in to shake hands.
- Frustrating: It is frustrating when "autopilot" has the wrong reflex. Think about driving a different car or getting a new phone.
- "I just can't!": It is hard to get past all the fears and reasons that we make up.
In all of these cases, things worked out and you survived. Here are some techniques to use in any situation:
- Identify your feelings: knowing that feelings are driving actions helps clear your mind to work
- Breathe: a couple of deep breaths automatically relaxes your mind and body and slows you down
- Put your hands on your hips like Superman: this bold pose makes you confident
- Do a couple of jumping jacks or air punches: clear your fight or flight reaction with action
- Smile: a smile is the most simple and a proven way to put you (and people around you) in a positive mood
