The topic of language classes at nursery schools can be a contentious one.
On one hand, there’s the so-called tiger mums, dads, guardians and staff. They’re prepared to do whatever it takes to give their children competitive edge. And on the other are those who feel language classes at nursery schools are a bit too much too soon.
Each to their own opinions.
But there are many and varied reasons pre-school is the prime time for baby steps towards learning a language.
Children between ages three – five are soaking up the world around them like tiny, enthusiastic sponges, after all.
They’re building confidence, mastering motor skills, and finding their voices. So, why not add another language into the mix?
National Preschooler’s Day, every 11th March, spotlights this vital stage of development, alongside the case for language classes at nursery schools.
Why Start So Young?
Research consistently shows the earlier children start learning a language, the more naturally they pick it up.
This is especially the case at pre-school age, when they:
- Have a brilliant ear for sound and accent
- Mimic pronunciation without the self-consciousness that comes over time
- Absorb vocabulary through play, song and repetition
- Build confidence in communication from day one
And truthfully, there’s nothing cuter than a class of nursery children singing in French or Spanish.
How Leading Language Classes at Nursery Schools Make Learning a Joy
Engaging, age-appropriate fun is key to teaching languages to small children, without any pressure or worksheets. These will follow soon enough in the school system.
Here’s how it works when nurseries work in partnership with award-winning language school la Academia in Manchester:
- An early years qualified French or Spanish teacher visits weekly or fortnightly
- Sessions last 45 minutes
- All songs, games, stories and resources are provided
- Other languages are available on request
This method meets children where they are, with the daily activities they already love. And it introduces language learning to them in a playful and exciting way.
Give Them a Lasting Head Start
Primary schools now teach a second language as standard. For this reason, language classes at nursery schools set up pre-schoolies beautifully for future learning.
At la Academia, we believe starting early makes all the difference when it comes to learning languages.
Get in touch if you’d like to explore a FREE introductory language session for your nursery to try for fit. We’d love to help.