Immersion is defined as a method of foreign language instruction in which the regular preschool curriculum is taught in different environment. Middle of the World is a full immersion language school for kids, meaning educators speak in Spanish 100% of the day, every day – with the understanding that we nurture and support children, if needed, in their native language (English).
The children’s ability to accept and understand Spanish comes as they progress through our program day after day.
Techniques and Methodology
This program is introduced to the kid with three months prior to the immersion program. In their early years children naturally process language without the inhibitions and fears that most adults have learning a second language. Initially, we exposure to spontaneous language, words and phrases that are repeated throughout the day allows for a gradual, natural comprehension. Songs, books, words in print around the room, and daily routines all incorporate the immersive approach as we naturally blend Spanish into everyday routines. As the children become progressively more familiar and comfortable hearing and understanding the second language, their response in Spanish becomes a natural part of their thought process and the second language emerges.
Teachers gently encourage the children to speak in Spanish during the day. While we do not want to create stress for children by forcing them to respond in Spanish, we do want to encourage them. Our teachers look for creative ways to elicit a response or conversation in Spanish and incorporate various techniques to encourage the children’s response in Spanish during the day.
The Benefits of Bilingualism
Learning a new language at any age is an enormously rewarding experience in many ways. While language learning is an enriching experience for all ages, children have the most to gain from this wonderful adventure. Quite simply, starting early offers the widest possible set of benefits and opportunities. Children understand intuitively that language is something to explore, to play around with, and to enjoy. Their enthusiasm is both infectious and effective. The quickness with which they pick up their first language is nearly miraculous—and such a joy to watch as a parent.
As children grow, all parents can attest to how much fun their children continue to have as they sing new words they hear and even invent new ones with a huge, bright smile. The joy with which children explore their first language makes childhood the ideal time for a second language—even if all the other reasons for an early start didn’t exist! But there are many other reasons, and while this list does not exhaust the number and variety of advantages starting a language early can provide, these are some of the most notable benefits:
Higher test scores
Better and more advanced reading skills
Greater confidence
Gives brains a boost
Natural-sounding, native-like accent
Greater opportunities for college and careers
Bigger view of the world
Greater grasp of one’s first language—including a bigger, richer vocabulary
Building and keeping cultural connections
An all-family activity
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