You would like your children to speak French one day so why not start when they are toddlers? Although many parents' first reaction is to hire the help of a tutor, a one hour a week exposure to a tutor is not going to do much for a toddler or a young kid. Kids learn by repetition -- constant repetition -- and learning a language is no different.

The best solution would be to hire a French nanny to speak with them all day, or move to France -- but this is not an option for most of us. And what about the ever so sought after French playgroup? I never found one myself, so good luck with that...

What is important is that you get involved. This is what will really get your kid's attention. Listen to a French CD and sing up a couple of words, enticing your toddler to do it as well. Sit down with your child while you watch a Disney movie in French and use simple sentences like "regarde! Mowgli mange une banane!" Get up and dance, and repeat “une banane! Une banane!” sing along with the songs, your children will love this special time and will definitely develop an ear for the language -- and associate it with a special bonding time with you.

If you want to successfully teach French to your children, you have to make up a plan of action, and stick to it in the long run.

Be firm and consistent

Don’t forget though, repetition is the key. And it’s likely that at one point your kid is going to show some resistance. Like wanting to watch TV in English. If you give in ONCE, then it’s going to be a struggle each and every time. Of course your child will prefer doing what is easier, and hear English. But we all know the attraction TV has on kids. So use it, present TV as a special treat. And that treat comes only in French, so it’s French TV, or no TV. Same goes for music, stories etc... See the tools I personally recommend here.

I teach French one-on-one to adults of every level, and focus on developing your confidence in interacting in today’s modern French. 

My motto is "communicate first". I am an experienced bilingual teacher who likes to chat and laugh and will boost your confidence in speaking French. I will help you talk, I'm good at it, but I also know all the rules of French and will correct your mistakes, and explain them to you clearly.

My lessons focus on preparing you for real interactions in modern French, by improving your language skills as well as your cultural knowledge of France.  I offer a very flexible French learning program, and will adjust my teaching to your learning style, always keeping your personal goals and needs in mind. I will offer my honest feedback on progress made, and you’ll see that with my professional guidance and encouragement, you’ll soon be speaking French with confidence.

A unique school with lots of flexibility in an amazing region

With an average student age of 27 in the summer and 38 the rest of the year, a solid program and many accommodation options, CLE school could be exactly what you need. Located in the heart of the Loire Valley, only 1 hour by train from Paris, you will discover the endless activities this gorgeous region has to offer: hikes, tours of the many castles and churches, walks in medieval towns, amazing food and wine...

Improve your French and experience real French lifestyle in the warmth of Myriam's home

In the beautiful region of Bayonne, near the Pyrénées mountains and the Atlantic ocean (Biarritz), Myriam Rolando (a certified native French teacher who also speaks Spanish, English & Japanese)  will teach you French and let you share her everyday life in the cozyness and safety of her house.
Passionnate about her region and its culture, her program offers many tours and excusions, as well as cooking classes - she is quite a chef!