Frequently Asked Questions

What is Immersion?


A method of teaching a foreign language by the exclusive use of that language, usually at a special school.

https://www.lexico.com/en/definition/immersion

What is a Language Immersion Playgroup?

A language immersion playgroup is one in which the children spend all or a large portion of the time learning, in a natural way, a particular foreign language, in this case, Spanish. The immersion approach maximizes the time the children get to practice the language they are learning through songs, read aloud, movement breaks, games, arts and crafts, and a range of age-appropriate activities that will focus on learning letters, numbers, colors and shapes, along with life and social skills.

Does my child need to know Spanish to enroll?


No! Your child does not need to know Spanish or have any prior knowledge of Spanish in order to enroll. We assume children are being exposed to Spanish for the first time but we also welcome and encourage children who have some prior knowledge of Spanish in the playgroup.

How many children can attend the playgroup?


A maximum of five students are allowed to sign up for each playgroup time slot.

Why should my child learn a second language?

Benefits


Give Them a Head Start

Children who learn another language before age five use the same part of the brain to acquire that second language that they use to learn their mother tongue. Younger learners are also uninhibited by the fear of making mistakes, which is sometimes an obstacle for older beginners.


Start Early, Stay Long!

The length of time a student is able to devote to learning a language has a direct and positive correlation to cognitive development. Longer sequences also provide the opportunity for learners to grow alongside the additional language and culture, developing a deeper connection as they mature.


Feed Their Brains

Research shows that learning a second language boosts problem-solving, critical-thinking, and listening skills, in addition to improving memory, concentration, and the ability to multitask. Children proficient in other languages also show signs of enhanced creativity and mental flexibility.


Boost Their Academic Achievement

The cognitive benefits of learning a language have a direct impact on a child’s academic achievement. Compared to those without an additional language, bilingual children have improved reading, writing, and math skills, and they generally score higher on standardized tests.


Nurture Their Curiosity, Cultural Sensitivity, Empathy, and Tolerance

Children who are exposed early to other languages display more positive attitudes to the cultures associated with those languages. The experience of learning a language introduces them to the world in ways they might otherwise have not experienced.


Don’t Hesitate: Go for Two… or Three

Contrary to popular belief, young children are not confused by the introduction of multiple languages at the same time. Not only do they naturally navigate multilingual environments, but acquiring a second language early in life primes the brain to learn multiple other languages, opening a world of opportunities for later on.

https://www.leadwithlanguages.org/why-learn-languages/early-childhood-elementary/