What is comprehensible input?
Comprehensible input is language a learner can mostly understand, with a little new material mixed in. It is widely considered one of the key ingredients for picking up a language naturally.
The idea behind comprehensible input is simple: we learn languages by understanding messages. If a child hears language that is far too difficult, it is just noise. If it is mostly understandable, with a few new words supported by context, pictures or gestures, the child can work out the meaning and gradually absorb new vocabulary and grammar.
For example, when you read a picture book in Spanish and point to the dog while saying "el perro," your child can connect the word to the picture. A story they already know is even easier, because they can predict what happens and focus on how it is said.
Comprehensible input is about meaning first. Drills and memorised word lists can help a little, but children usually learn best when they are engaged, curious and following something they care about, like a story, song or game.
Practical tips: choose materials slightly above your child's current level, not far beyond it. Use simple language, repetition, facial expressions and actions. Revisit favourite books and songs often; repetition is helpful, not boring, for young children. Talk about what you are doing in the moment, such as cooking or getting dressed. Listening to the same story in two languages is a natural way to make new-language input more understandable.
The goal is enjoyable understanding. When children feel successful, they come back for more.
