The best time to teach children a second language is the same time they are learning the first one. Preschool children develop language skills rapidly, and they quickly absorb whatever they hear. They can learn to understand new words in two different languages at an incredibly fast rate. Preschoolers are not only increasing their vocabularies, they’re starting to recognize the speech patterns they’ve been hearing since birth! Experts say the earlier you introduce a second language, the easier it will be for children to pick up its unique sounds. Also, the best way for children to understand a new language is to hear it spoken fluently in a native tongue. Introducing children to a second language also helps them learn about other cultures.
Our Spanish program, taught by Mrs. Lucia Olivas, includes vocabulary, conversation, and different concepts such as colors and numbers using a variety of visual and hands-on materials such as puppets, interactive books, and songs. Mrs. Olivas also brings the country of Mexico to life for the children as they participate in cooking traditional Mexican foods, a year-end fiesta, and making arts and crafts from her native country.