If you are a regular reader of this blog, you know that I am a HUGE believer in introducing kids to foreign languages. Any language is fine by me (although I have a bit of a personal bias for my true love–French!) I would be tickled pink if my kids’ school district offered early language learning of any kind: French, Spanish, Chinese, Swedish . . . whatever. Personally, I support the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages’ position on language choice. The following statement is copied from ACTFL’s web site:
Which Languages Schools Should Offer (May 2006)
The opportunity to learn any second language is more important than the specific language that is learned since research shows that generally learning a third or fourth language is facilitated after learning a second. The language offerings of a school or institution of higher education should reflect the needs and interests of the communities and students they serve, as well as national and international needs. Offering a variety of languages prepares students for future economic, diplomatic, educational, and personal endeavors.
Still, I’m curious. Are you teaching your child a language? Which one? If you could snap your fingers and put an elementary foreign language program in your child’s school, what language would you choose? Does it matter? Click the link to take my poll and I’ll share the results in a couple of weeks.
Merci 
Photo Credit: by B S K at http://sxc.hu/photo/937195
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I have always loved languages all my life! =] I was lucky enough to have a family that speaks Spanish. I learned Spanish through them, and I learned English at school and home. I am not yet a parent (I am 15), but if I were, I think any language such as Spanish, French, Mandarin, Arabic, or more that are very useful are really great.
I am taking French at school, and I have been self teaching myself Esperanto and Italian (more soon to come). Haha even my little 11 year old sister is learning them from me as well!
I began to learn real French and the rules in high school, but when I was almost 8 (3rd grade), I started practicing my French accent and imitating it, that, now I can pronounce the accents very well! I now realize that at the time, I was preparing myself. I hope you understand me, I didn’t explain very clearly. I.. think that since I.. learned it at the early age.. I acquired the right accent..? I hope I explained it well. Anyway, it is much more natural for me to pronounce French words than if I hadn’t practiced when I was young, since I got exposed to it.
I am totally for foreign language education at school, because it is proved that knowing foreign languages help the test scores, etc. and create a more open mindedness of more cultures, etc.
Oooohh I love this website I am learning so much !
Thanks for the article(s)..
Valentina, you just made my day! Your love of languages just jumps off the page! And I love how you are teaching your younger sister. Sounds like you are a natural teacher. Never lose your passion for languages and cultures. The knowledge and openness will serve you well your entire life. Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment