Speak Like a Native—Everyday English Phrases Kids Love

English is full of fun, casual phrases that native speakers use all the time. These everyday expressions can help kids sound more natural and confident when speaking English. Here are some of the most common phrases kids can start using right away:

Saying Hello

• How’s it going?
• What’s up?
• What’s happening?
• What’s new?
• How’ve you been?
• What are you up to?
• What’s going on?
• How’s everything?
• What’s cooking?
• How are things with you?

Saying How You Are

• Nothing much
• Same old, same old
• Things are OK
• Hanging in there
• I’m doing OK
• No complaints
• Keeping busy
• Been getting by

Meeting Someone New

• Nice to meet you
• Glad to meet you
• Happy to meet you
• It was a pleasure meeting you

Seeing a Friend Again

• Good to see you again
• Nice running into you
• Thanks for coming
• Thanks for dropping by
• See you later alligator
• I’ll catch you later
• See you around
• Take care

Talking to Strangers

• Do you come here often?
• Is this seat taken?
• Have you got a minute?
• I’m gonna get a coffee—want one?
• Did you see the show last night?
• Do you know what time it is?
• Is this your first time in…?

Chatting with Friends

• Did you hear the news?
• Guess what!
• You won’t believe this
• We gotta talk
• Do you have a minute?
• The other day I was…

Waiting

• Hold on a sec
• Just a moment
• Wait your turn

Feeling Sad or Anxious

• I’m going nuts
• I’m going crazy
• I’m losing my mind
• I’m freaking out
• I need a break
• I can’t take it anymore

Not Understanding

• Sorry?
• Pardon?
• Come again?
• Can you say that again?
• I didn’t quite get that
• I don’t follow you
• What did you say?
• Could you repeat that?
• Could you please speak slower/louder?

When Leaving

• I gotta run
• I have to leave now
• It’s getting late
• I better get moving
• I’m out of here
• Time to go
• Gotta take off

Dinolingo helps children not only learn English words but also use them in real-life situations. Through engaging stories, interactive games, and videos, kids naturally pick up how to speak like a native.