TPR in Practice: Nurturing English Skills in Early Childhood through Movement and Media

Abstract

The acquisition of English in early childhood is essential but often hindered by limited exposure and ineffective methods. Total Physical Response (TPR), which integrates physical movement with language learning, has proven effective in supporting language development. This case study investigates the role of TPR in Winduu’s English acquisition—a child from a non-English-speaking household who has made significant progress through media exposure, including bilingual books, toys, songs, videos, and films. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, data were gathered through video recordings, observations, and interviews with family members. The study aims to examine how TPR strategies influence Winduu’s language development and identify key elements that support his learning. Findings show that TPR improves comprehension and retention, especially when paired with multimedia input. This research adds to the literature on early bilingual development and the benefits of multimedia-assisted learning. However, it is limited by its focus on a single case and lacks longitudinal data to evaluate long-term outcomes. Future research should examine the extended impact of media-based exposure and active parental involvement across various age groups to provide broader insights into bilingual language acquisition in early childhood.