Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is the program only for families with French-speaking parents?
A. No, APM welcomes families from all languages and backgrounds.
Q. What is the best age to introduce a child to a second language?
A. The earlier a child learns a language the better. Studies have shown that children who learn another language before the age of five will learn with the same part of the brain that they use to speak their mother tongue. Younger children are without inhibitions and so will speak naturally and with native-like pronunciation.
Q. Will a second language interfere with my child's English ability?
A. In most cases, learning another language enhances a child's English ability. Comparing two language systems aids with the understanding and use of each.
Q. Is it harder for a child to acquire two languages at once?
A. There is no evidence to suggest that it's any harder for a child to acquire two languages than it is for the child to acquire one language. As long as people are regularly speaking with the child in both languages, the child will acquire them both easily. A child doesn't have to be exceptional or have any special language ability to become bilingual. As long as the child is exposed to two languages throughout early childhood, he or she will acquire them both.
Q. What is the advantage of having a mixed-age class?
A. The research supporting mixed-age classrooms indicates that academic achievement is the same as, or better than, the academic achievement of children in same-grade classrooms. Mixed-age classrooms do not negatively affect student achievement, and students in these classrooms have significantly more positive attitudes toward school, themselves, and others. Take, for example, tying shoes. Older children who have mastered this skill will often help younger siblings tie their shoes. The older child has the opportunity to develop her patience, as well as the verbal skills necessary to communicate the steps to the younger child, while the younger learns how to tie her shoes.
Q. How do you deal with separation anxiety?
A. There is no formula that takes care of separation anxiety. A child’s response to being left at school and to the life of the classroom itself is not predictable. One child may need a push from a parent while another may dismiss you without a backward glance. One of our goals is to make you feel confident that we are doing what is best for your child and to help you communicate that confidence to your child.
Q. How do you handle Discipline?
A. Discipline will be based on the individual needs and development of each child. The goal is to teach each child responsibility and appropriate behavior.