Foreign Language Fun

I am a HUGE Madeline fan!  In fact, my aging Siamese cat is named after the famous Bemelman’s character from that “old house in Paris that was covered in vines.”  This summer, I’m considering a Madeline-themed day camp as a fun way to introduce French to 5-7 year olds.  I’m still in the brainstorming phase, but I know that I want to make yellow hats, act out stories, and throw a French birthday party for Madeline on the last day.  Imagine all the French-learning possibilities:  foods, invitations, party games . . .

I’m busy gathering books, ideas, and other materials as this little program takes shape.  (Please comment if you’ve got some great ideas!)  Here are a few of the resources I’ve come across so far:

• The original book, of course!  In both English and French.
• Madeline Bean Bag Toy Though I’d prefer an actual puppet, I must, must, must have a little mascot/character to speak French with for the week. (pictured above)
• Madeline Paper Dolls I know I’ll come up with a lot of fun, interactive activities in French using these as puppets.
• Madeline Doll Birthday Playboard I have a few other Madeline felt boards that I have used with great success in the classroom.  This one is actually about a birthday party.  How perfect!
• Madeline Birthday Activity Book This book even includes recipes and games for the big final party day.
• Madeline Tea Set in Cardboard Case OK, I probably won’t actually splurge on this, but how cute!
• Madeline: Meet Me in Paris I already have this DVD as a back-up on a rainy day.
• Madeline’s Favorite Songs I own this CD, too.  The songs are in English but are SO cute to set the mood & theme.
• Madeline Children’s Card Game
• Madeline Game
• Madeline DVD