For the first time, the Victorian Government has created a program that actively encourages preschool children to learn another language.
Education experts have found that there are many benefits in learning additional languages at a young age, including:
- Increased reading and writing skills
- Cognitive flexibility
- Strengthened brain development
- Improved problem-solving skills
Here, at Leslie Moorhead we have chosen to ‘learn in’ French, meaning that the new language is integrated into the children experiences and routines. All educators are encouraged to use French during transitions and routines.
Stéphanie, our French speaker, has been working with us for over 12 years. She is experienced in teaching French in Early Childhood settings as well as Primary and Secondary schools.
Just like the regular Kinder Program, the Early Childhood Language Program is delivered in the line with the VEYDLF. For the Early Childhood Program, elements such as play, child agency and responsive teaching are at the base of the program.
The program involves group times for activities such as songs and stories, small groups for games, cooking or project work but the primary focus remains on free play where the language teacher join in the child directed play.
Some examples of our program include:
- French cultural experiences such as ‘Mardi Gras’ (Pancake Day), Pâques (Easter), Noêl, Bastille Day.
- Some cooking experiences, crêpes, Madeleines, croissants.
- Games involving colours, animals, numbers, fruit ….