How to Teach ESL Kids (Ages 5–8) Online

Luca Brussouw
Oct 14
3 min read

Updated: Oct 15

Teaching English to young children online can initially seem challenging tiny faces on the screen, short attention spans, and boundless energy! However, with the right rhythm, a warm smile, and some creative tools, your online lessons can be joyful and productive.

Here are some gentle, heart-centred tips to enliven your virtual ESL classroom for kids aged 5 to 8.

🌞 1. Start with a Hello Song or Short Video

Begin each class with something familiar and cheerful, like a “Hello” or “Good Morning” song. Young children love repetition, and this simple routine helps them feel secure and eager to participate.

You can also show a short, upbeat cartoon clip or an educational video to introduce the day's theme. Kids naturally mimic what they hear, so you're enhancing listening and pronunciation skills even before the “lesson” officially starts!

💡 Tip: Encourage them to sing along, wave, or dance. Movement keeps their focus on you, not another tab!

🎴 2. Use Flashcards On-Screen

Flashcards are invaluable in online classes. You can hold them up to the camera or display digital versions on-screen. Use them to introduce new words, review vocabulary, or engage in short interactive games.

Some fun ways to use flashcards online:

👀 “What’s this?” – Show cards and ask "What is this?" having them teach you
🎯 “Find It!” – Say a word and have them point to the correct card on their screen or in their own printed set.
💬 “Repeat After Me” – Demonstrate pronunciation with actions and smiles.

✨ I’ve included a set of free printable flashcards you can download and use right away! They’re perfect for your next online lesson.

🤸 3. Teach Through Movement (Even Online!)

Young learners need to move even behind a screen! Use simple action phrases throughout your class:

“Stand up!”
“Sit down!”
“Clap your hands!”
“Touch your nose!”
“Spin around!”

You’ll be amazed at how much English they learn when their whole body is involved in the lesson. Movement helps language retention and releases that adorable wiggly energy!

📚 4. Introduce Words Before Reading

At this age, most ESL kids are still learning to read, and that’s perfectly fine. Introduce new words through pictures, songs, and visuals first. Let them hear, see, and say the words repeatedly before showing the text.

This builds confidence and allows them to connect meaning naturally. Later, when reading begins, those words will already feel familiar, like little friends they’ve known for a while.

💕 5. Keep Lessons Short, Sweet, and Full of Warmth

Online attention spans are brief aim for lessons between 25–30 minutes, and sprinkle in smiles, encouragement, and laughter. Use their name often and celebrate small achievements:

“Wow, Emma! You said that so clearly!”

Your warmth and patience are what make kids fall in love with learning. Even through a screen, they can feel your care and excitement — and that’s where the real connection begins.