To help children develop a concept of "words," this document introduces parallels from languages other than English so that children, especially those learning English as a second language, can become aware of similarities across languages and recognize links between their first language and English. Answers to questions often asked by teachers--such as What words do children most need to learn? Why are some words easier to learn than others? and How can we make words important for children?--are discussed. The document also provides activities to promote word knowledge, including playing with words and word sorts (such as closed sorts, open sorts, minimal meaning units, meaning links, and meaning links in Chinese). Examples of and activities for learning borrowed words (from aboriginal languages and current borrowings and coinings), word clines, semantic webbing, and idiomatic words and phrases are also provided. (SRT)