10 Fun and Engaging Ways to Introduce French to Toddlers at Home

As parents, we all want to give our children the best tools for success, and introducing a second language, like French, at a young age is a wonderful gift. Studies show that young children are particularly adept at learning new languages, making the toddler years an ideal time to start. However, it can be a bit daunting to figure out how to incorporate a new language into your daily routine—especially if you're not fluent yourself. The key is to make it fun, playful, and part of everyday life.

Here are 10 easy and engaging ways to introduce French to your toddler at home. These methods will keep your child’s curiosity piqued and ensure that language learning feels natural, not like a chore.

1. Sing French Nursery Rhymes

Toddlers naturally gravitate toward music, and one of the best ways to introduce new words is through song. Singing nursery rhymes is a fantastic way to introduce the rhythm and sounds of French. Start with classics like "Alouette", "Frère Jacques", and "Sur le pont d'Avignon." Don’t worry if your pronunciation isn’t perfect—your child will love the melody, and as you sing together, you’ll both improve!

To extend this activity, try finding videos or animations of these songs online, so your child can watch and listen while singing along. Encourage your toddler to perform simple actions that correspond with the lyrics to make the learning experience multi-sensory.

2. Label Household Items in French

A simple yet effective way to introduce your toddler to French vocabulary is by labeling household items. You can start with items in common areas such as the kitchen (“la table”, “le réfrigérateur”) or their bedroom (“le lit”, “les jouets”). By seeing these words frequently, your toddler will begin to associate the French terms with the objects around them.

Take it a step further by encouraging your child to point out and say the French word for the item when they see it. For example, when they want to sit down, ask them, “Où est la chaise?” This repetition will help reinforce vocabulary over time.

3. Read Bilingual Books Together

Books are a wonderful gateway to language learning. Reading bilingual French-English books is an excellent way for your child to see and hear French while also enjoying the comfort of familiar stories. Start with simple picture books that have short, repetitive text. Favorites like "Petit Ours Brun", "T'choupi", or "Loulou et compagnie" are perfect for toddlers, as the colorful illustrations and easy sentences make it fun for them to follow along.

To make reading even more interactive, pause on each page to ask your toddler questions in French: “Où est le chien?” (Where is the dog?) or “Que fait le chat?” (What is the cat doing?). This back-and-forth interaction enhances comprehension and builds confidence in using French words.

4. Use French in Daily Routines

Toddlers thrive on routine, which provides plenty of opportunities to sprinkle French into everyday activities. Whether it’s asking what they want to eat for lunch (“Veux-tu une banane ou une pomme?”), or counting steps as you go up the stairs (“un, deux, trois…”), these small language moments make learning French feel natural and integrated into their day.

Don’t be afraid to repeat these phrases often—repetition is key for young learners. Over time, you’ll notice that your child starts responding or even using the French words themselves. You can also try creating a mini-routine where you speak only French for a few minutes during specific activities, like snack time or bedtime.

5. Watch French Cartoons

Cartoons are a hit with toddlers, and there are many French-language shows that are perfect for young learners. Start with popular programs like "Peppa Pig" or "Paw Patrol", both of which have French-language versions. These shows use simple language and clear pronunciation, making them ideal for toddlers to follow along.

You can also find short, age-appropriate YouTube videos or streaming services like Netflix that offer French programming for kids. Watching just 10-15 minutes of a French cartoon daily can significantly boost your toddler’s comprehension and listening skills without feeling like “work.”

6. Play Games with French Words

Toddlers learn best through play, so why not incorporate French into their favorite games? You can try classic games like "Simon dit" (Simon says), where you give simple instructions in French like "Simon dit saute" (Simon says jump) or "Simon dit touche tes pieds" (Simon says touch your feet). This helps them connect physical actions with French words.

You can also create a matching game with French vocabulary cards, where your child matches pictures to French words. This game is an excellent way to reinforce visual memory and word recognition in a playful context.

7. Create French Art Projects

Art is a powerful tool for language learning. Get creative with your toddler by introducing French vocabulary while making simple crafts. For example, you could draw animals together and label each one in French (“chat”, “chien”, “oiseau”). Another idea is to create a colorful rainbow and label the colors in French (“rouge”, “bleu”, “jaune”).

As your toddler learns the words for each color or animal, you can have them repeat the words as they draw, color, or cut out shapes. Art activities engage both the mind and body, creating a memorable way to learn French.

8. Use French Songs During Transitions

Toddlers thrive on consistency, and transitions between activities can sometimes be challenging. A simple way to ease these transitions is by using French songs or rhymes. For example, when it’s time to clean up, you can sing “C’est l’heure de ranger, c’est l’heure de ranger” (It’s time to clean up). Singing during these moments not only makes transitions smoother but also reinforces French vocabulary in a fun, memorable way.

You can make up your own little French songs for other activities, like washing hands or getting dressed, and encourage your toddler to join in.

9. Host a French Playdate

If you know other families who are introducing French to their children, consider organizing a French-themed playdate! During this time, the kids can engage in simple French games, sing songs, and interact with each other in French. A group setting provides a more natural, relaxed environment for language exposure, and children tend to learn well from their peers.

For playdates with older siblings or friends, consider setting up a small “French café” where they practice ordering snacks or drinks in French. Not only will this be a hit with the little ones, but it also reinforces practical French vocabulary in a playful way.

10. Be Patient and Keep it Fun!

Most importantly, remember that learning a new language is a gradual process, and it’s essential to keep things light and fun. Don’t worry if your toddler doesn’t pick up every word right away—what matters most is that they’re being exposed to French consistently. Celebrate small victories and try to make French a regular part of your routine without putting too much pressure on results.

Toddlers are naturally curious and will learn at their own pace. Over time, you’ll be surprised at how much they’ve absorbed. And don’t forget—you’re building a foundation for a lifetime of language learning!

Introducing French to your toddler doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. By using these fun and engaging activities, you can create a positive, immersive environment for your child to start their French journey. Remember to keep the focus on play and exploration. For more tips, resources, and language-learning activities, check out our Franco Fun Learning Hub.

Happy learning, et amusez-vous bien (and have fun)!