Frequently Asked Questions
Who can use the curriculum kit?
Preschools, early elementary programs, after school & enrichment programs, church groups, community centers, homeschool parents and childcare providers can all utilize the Foreign Language Fun Kit. It's easy to learn and use, fun for kids and adaptable for many different purposes.
How did you develop and test the curriculum kit?
We have been providing enrichment classes and camps for preschool and kindergarten-age children in schools, summer camps, recreation centers and home environments since 2009. Through our direct experience with children and through positive feedback from students, parents and schools; time intensive research; and expensive materials testing, we have learned what children of different age groups respond to and have pulled together the most effective activities and materials in our time-saving, affordable turnkey kit.
Is your program an "immersion" program?
Because our program is supplemental education, it cannot be classified as "immersion". We encourage teachers to speak primarily in the "target language" (ACTFL's guideline is 90%), but the adaptability of the program allows the teacher to decide how much of the "target language" is used, depending on skill level and social development of the class. Often teachers will apply a 90/10 rule through the first session, whereby the teacher will begin with a 90% English language usage and will move rapidly toward 10% English usage as the session progresses.
What about Standards?
While it's difficult to fully address foreign language learning standards for this age group, we have developed the program to be in alignment at an age-appropriate level for American Council for Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Standards for Foreign Language Learning and California Department of Education Foreign Language Framework.
What about reading and writing?
The Foreign Language Fun Kit is created for preschool and early elementary age children and focuses on developing conversational aptitude, not on reading and writing development. However, our Foreign Language Fun Kit Mandarin introduces simplified characters through art projects. As we expand the offering to upper elementary age children, we will include reading and writing activities.
How do you approach different dialects or cultural differences within a language?
Language is ever changing and developing and there will always be localized differences. We encourage teachers to talk to their students about their own heritage and integrate that experience and culture into the program. (For example, differences in Spanish and Latin American celebrations or Taiwanese and Mainland China's cuisine.)
Where can I find foreign language teachers who are trained in using the curriculum?
We are committed to building a community of teachers, parents and schools who can share knowledge and experience in foreign language education for children. As our community grows, we hope to be able to connect teachers with parents or schools. Visit our Facebook page at XXXX to join the community and start building relationships.
For what ages does the kit work best?
We have found through our experience that children between the ages of 4-7 are prime targets for this curriculum, although advanced 3 year olds can benefit from classes as well. We know that many parents would like to start their toddlers in language classes as well, and will be releasing a Foreign Language Fun Kit for Toddlers.
Can the curriculum kit be used with multiple languages?
We currently offer the Vocabulary, Phrases & Song Guide in Spanish and Mandarin. The Foreign Language Fun Kit, however, may be used to for any language as long as the teacher can read English.
What if I need more materials but don't want to buy another kit?
Replacement or additional materials may be purchased separately in our Products section.