DEVELOPING FOREIGN LANGUAGE SKILLS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD THROUGH METHODS, CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

This article examines the importance of effective methods and approaches in teaching English to young learners in the context of globalization and the growing demand for foreign language proficiency in Uzbekistan. It emphasizes that children aged 5–7 possess strong memory and natural language acquisition abilities, which require age-appropriate, engaging, and interactive teaching strategies rather than traditional grammar-based instruction. The study highlights the crucial role of the teacher not only as a language instructor but also as a facilitator of creativity, critical thinking.  Drawing on the views of foreign scholars such as Janice Bland and Dwi  Warry  Octaviana, the article underscores the value of children’s literature, storytelling, games, songs, and real-life contexts in language learning. It also references national educational reforms aimed at promoting foreign language learning in Uzbekistan. The article concludes that playful, student-centered, and innovative teaching methods significantly enhance children’s motivation, interest, and success in acquiring a second language.

Key words: young learners, teaching English, foreign language learning, children’s literature, games and activities, teacher’s role, interactive methods, early language acquisition, Uzbekistan education reforms