Knit on purls question

[SPCnut]

I was taught how to knit the English Method. I strayed away and taught myself how to crochet. I want to get back into knitting, but I quickly remember was lost my interest in the first place...knitting on purls in the previous row. I cannot do it! I always have to take the purl loop and with the forefinger and thumb of my right hand and physically loop it over the needle. Is there an easier way?

TIA
Jill