Learning a new language in the early years.
Learning a new language in the early years.
Parenting a preschooler can be challenging, and we hope that this newsletter will add to your parenting toolbox by delivering inspiration and expert advice to your inbox each month. Do you have burning parenting questions or a topic that you would like us to cover in a future newsletter? We would love your input! Please contact Nicole Casey at ncasey@fayschool.org with any questions, comments, or feedback.
LITERACY AND NUMERACY - World Languages
 Research has shown that children’s brains are uniquely primed for language acquisition and that learning a second language leads to more flexible and creative thinking. Research also shows that kids who are exposed to languages grow up to become more flexible and open-minded adults. In order to take advantage of these benefits, Fay's World Languages program begins in kindergarten, when students are introduced to French and Spanish.
To begin teaching your child a new language at home, we recommend that you focus on natural acquisition through games, stories, songs, art, and cultural experiences. The newsletter this month suggests activites for practicing French, but they can easily be adapted for other languages of interest.
BOOK CLUB - Everybody Bonjours!
Take your child on a tour through Paris while reading Everybody Bonjours by Leslie Kimmelman. The book is perfect for introducing your child to the French language, as they will learn that everyone says "hello" differently in Paris. 
ARTS & CRAFTS - Pointillism
Introduce your child to the work of French post-impressionist artist Georges Seurat, who is credited with developing the pointillist style of painting,  while also reinforcing French color vocabulary. 
Materials Needed:
Instructions:
  1. Print out the copy of Georges Seurat's Bathers at Asnieres and gather paint and Q-tips. 
  2. Introduce your child to pointillism by showing them how to color the picture by only using dots of paint from the top of their Q-tips. 
  3. While your child is painting, you can name each color they are using in French. For example, when they start painting with red, call it "rouge." Towards the end of the project, see if your child can start naming any of the colors themselves in French.
If your child is interested in learning more about Georges Seurat and pointillism, check out Katie's Sunday Afternoon by James Mayhew.
DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONE - Vocabulary
At first, learning a new language is all about learning vocabulary, which is also extremely important for young children to do in their native language. The number of words that a child hears in infancy and toddlerhood is strongly predictive of future vocabulary growth. And it’s not just using a wide assortment of words that’s important — it’s using complex words, interactive words, and words to tell stories, explain, and imagine. To learn more about vocabulary development, click here for a resource shared by Lauren Cilley, the Assistant Director of the Early Learning Center at Fay School.
FIELD TRIP - Suzette Crêperie & Café  
Visit Suzette Crêperie & Café, an authentic crêperie in Worcester that serves savory and sweet crepes, to experience a bit of French culture. While there, encourage your child to use French words like bonjour, salut, and merci. Click here for more information about Suzette Crêperie & Café and to visit.
PARENTING ADVICE - Three Essential Benefits of Early Language Study
Parents tend to focus on the fundamental skills taught in Kindergarten, such as reading, writing, and numeracy. The opportunity to learn another language might seem dispensable in comparison. Still, research has shown that early foreign language study can influence a child’s brain development and lay the foundation for future academic success. 
Three Essential Benefits of Early Language Study
Sunset Playdates are back!
Join us this summer for a free, fun family night out on our playground! Enjoy live music by local children's musicians and an after-dinner popsicle! 

Tuesday, July 20 - Jeannie Mack
Tuesday, August 17 - Mr. Kim from Apple Tree Arts
Learn More and Register
FAY SCHOOL   48 Main Street   Southborough, MA   01772   508-490-8201   www.fayschool.org
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