Learning a second language will...

...enhance your child’s opportunities for future success in both their professional and personal lives.  It prepares them for a global society that requires a better understanding of other cultures in their own backyard and around the world.  It will also give them the ability to be more creative, critical thinkers, and to improve their overall learning and achievement. Give your child the gift of a second language!

What are the benefits of learning a second language?

Numerous studies have shown that children who learn a second language demonstrate greater cognitive development, creativity, and divergent thinking than monolingual children. Also, when children have adequate exposure to two languages at a young age, they are more flexible and creative (Bamford and Mizokawa, 1991). Other studies show that people who are competent in more than one language outscore monolinguals on tests of verbal and nonverbal intelligence (Bruck, Lambert, and Tucker, 1974; Hakuta, 1986; Weatherford, 1986).

Why learn a second language in the preschool years?

Emotionally, children are usually less inhibited than adolescents or adults. This lowers what language acquisition experts call the “affective filter” (Krashen, 1985), making them more likely to try out and use a second language.  There have also been studies supporting what is called the “critical period” a biologically determined period of time early in life when language is acquired more easily (Brown, 1987).  Most experts agree that this important period ends between the ages of ten and twelve, reinforcing the importance of learning a second language at a young age.

When can I expect my child to start using Russian?

Most children will go through a “silent period” when “the child is building up competence in the second language via listening, by understanding the world around him” (Krashen, 1982). All children are different and the length of the “silent period” varies from child to child.  Your child’s personality certainly plays a role. Finally, by sparking interest, providing low anxiety environments and supporting your child’s self esteem, children at preschool will feel more comfortable using a second language more quickly.

Will my child be confused?

Children are very sensitive to the different ways people speak. They notice moods, politeness, gender differences and more. This can also be applied to learning a second language.  In addition, our skilled teachers use techniques and strategies to make learning more understandable.