Benefits of French in Your Homeschool Curriculum

Homeschooling allows freedom, flexibility, and a personalized education that can be difficult to find in traditional classrooms. The benefits are many, though it can come with difficulties as well; from finding opportunities for peer socialization for students, to organizing the curriculum, and even finding the right teachers for specialized courses, such as second language instruction.

Speaking multiple languages opens doors which may be closed to those who only speak one, across educational and professional sectors, and personal development. The younger a learner is, the easier it is for them to reach fluency and become comfortable using a language. Studies show that having a second language offers benefits to a child's development that last throughout their life. 

We are here to help you provide the best learning experience for your student, so discover the benefits of adding a second language to your curriculum, and how AFMSP can make it easy and fun!

Cognitive Benefits
Studies have shown that learning a second language offers long lasting benefits for cognitive health. From an increase in grey matter, which aids in executive function, to a lowered risk of Alzheimer's; the brain gets a boost when we add in a second language. For children who learn in their developmental years, studies have shown higher levels of empathy, creativity, and a greater skill in understanding other perspectives.  In academic settings, studies have shown an increase in memory, attention span, as well as a boost in literacy and academic performance across subjects. 

International Opportunities
The world is growing evermore connected, and while we may be able to Google Translate our way through vacation, the real opportunities and connections come when we can truly engage with a culture in their own language. French is spoken in 28 countries across Europe, Africa, and North America. The opportunities for those who speak French to study, work, and live in these countries are many. Not to mention international organizations such as the United Nations, UNESCO and WHO, that are always looking for multilingual candidates. Speaking French offers an advantage for job applications, volunteering, or even simply on vacation. 

Cultural Exchange
Cultural awareness is a sharp tool and in the modern world more useful than ever. Knowing your way around the world is helpful for vacations, study abroad trips, work exchanges, or even just meeting people from different places. A multilingual education allows you to step outside of the world you were raised in and see different perspectives and experiences more clearly. Those who speak multiple languages have been shown to have higher levels of abstract thought and creativity. These skills are crucial for any person interested in working internationally.

AFMSP Makes It Easy

Studying French offers the opportunity to discover different cultures and lifestyles, not just in France but around the world. The classes offered at AFMSP are designed to be small so we can personalize instruction to each student. While this environment is smaller than traditional public school, we are able to offer an opportunity for peer socialization by offering homeschool-style learning in a classroom setting with fellow students. 

You can find the right class for your student and let us take care of the rest. Each week your student will improve their skills and be on the path to fluency, which will offer them new opportunities as they move forward in their lives. We look forward to welcoming your student to class and starting (or continuing) their French education this Fall!

Still have questions? Reach out to us at 612 332 0436 or email youth@afmsp.org