Story time in Foreign Languages

For children 3-5 years*

Objective

Story time in Foreign Languages introduces pre-school children to wonderful new sounds through foreign language and music. Play-based activities stimulate the imagination and help encourage communication. Each session lasts 15 or 30 minutes and can be designed as story-time or a class.

Stories: Stories - both new and familiar -- are told in Spanish, French, and/or Portuguese. Stories not only expose children to a new sound system, but also introduce children to elements of another culture.

Songs: The teacher sings in Spanish, French and/or Portuguese, and introduces children to the following instruments: piano, recorder, guitar and mandolin. Children are encouraged to participate in making music with age-appropriate percussion instruments made available during these sessions. Children learn to use their best instrument of all -- their voice!

Play: The teacher uses a variety of vibrant, child-friendly props, allowing for the ultimate sensory experience. Finger plays and games are used to reinforce learning.

Duration: 15-30 minutes long *(AGES 0-2); 30 minutes long *(AGES 3-5)

Sample programs (30 minutes)

Song: De Colores
Activity: kids play a game, learn colors in Spanish
Story: Te Amo, Little one Wheeler, Lisa

Video: Make Way for Ducklings (Spanish version)
Activity: kids play a game, learn numbers in Spanish
Story: Has visto mi patito Tafuri, Nancy

Song: Il 'y a un rat
Activity: kids make a craft, learn French words
Story: Fables Choisies, Jean de La Fontaine

Rates

Civic/Library rate: Free Spring 2005
One-time visit: $65.00
Includes props and supplies, Teacher and Teacher's Aide/musician

Private/small group rate: Six-week class: $440.00
Includes props and supplies, Teacher and Teacher's Aide/musician

About the teacher: Ana LaRouche is a member of St. Patrick's church Folk musical group, and Moms and Tots and Mops. Her musical training includes baroque flute, piano, bassoon. She has taught music to children of all ages. She is a native Portuguese speaker and an instructor of Spanish, French and Portuguese at the University of Detroit Mercy through its Language & Cultural Training Program.

Scheduling Story time in Foreign Languages

Contact University of Detroit Mercy's Language & Cultural Training Department: 313-993-1191