Bilingual Beginnings

English/Spanish

 

Foreign Language Instruction "Pine Village Preschool offers an inovative, bilingual Spanish/English educational program for children ages 24 months to 5 years of age. "

 

Our Spanish Language Immersion Program
Immersion is defined as a method of foreign language instruction in which the regular school curriculum is taught through the medium of the language. Spanish is the vehicle for content instruction at Pine Village, it is not the subject of instruction. Pine Village currently utilizes an 80:20 Immersion Model; meaning the teachers speak in Spanish 80% of the day, and in English 20% of the day.

We present our language program in the same way we present instruction in all curriculum areas. Children incorporate new information into their lives as they are able to process it and comprehend it. The children’s ability to accept, and understand Spanish comes as they progress through our program month after month.

Initially the children are exposed to spontaneous language, words and phrases that are repetitious throughout the day. Songs, books, manipulatives and words in print, all incorporate the bilingual immersion approach. As the children become progressively more familiar and comfortable hearing, understanding and responding in Spanish it becomes a natural part of their thought process.

The long-range goals of our immersion program include: 1) developing proficiency in Spanish as a first or second language; 2) developing positive attitudes toward those who speak a foreign language and toward their culture(s); 3) developing English language skills commensurate with expectations for student's age and abilities; 4) gaining skills and knowledge in the content areas of the curriculum in keeping with stated objectives in these areas.

Knowing two or more languages truly gives children so many advantages in life. Bilingual children have the advantage of knowing two cultures, of being able to communicate with a wider variety of people, and of possible economic advantages in their future.

This exciting program encourages the sense of exploration natural to two and three-year-olds, using a safe and colorful environment where they can easily maneuver and interact. Our Preschool Readiness classrooms are designed to encourage learning through self-directed activities with the constant support of their teachers. Every component of this program is designed to promote self-confidence and happiness, a perfect first step for a young preschooler.