Welcome to the C’mon Language Learning Blog! This is the place to come for resources, tips, and news on learning foreign languages. The exhibits, programs, and activities of Children’s Museum of Naples blend all curricular areas, learning styles, and cultures to create a unique multi-sensory experience for all who participate! Once inside the museum, visitors will experience The Street which contains the World Café, a place to explore the cultures of our planet. Of course, an important part of any culture is the language, or languages, associated with it. Amongst other aspects of any given culture (such as music, cuisine, art, etc.), the language(s) spoken within it play an important role the development of cultural identity. Within the United States itself, and all over the world, we see and experience a wide range of languages being maintained within individual cultural communities. In our every day lives, we are surrounded by languages of the world. Part of the excitement of going to a French restaurant, for example, is hearing (and even speaking) the language – a momentary immersion into that particular culture. There are so many opportunities within our local community to experience the languages of the world via the many restaurants, festivals, art exhibits, and other activities. Wherever your language interest lies, the Children’s Museum of Naples seeks to provide you with the experiences and resources to begin and continue your exploration!
Did you know that the children of Collier County speak over 80 languages? It’s true! If your child doesn’t currently speak another language, chances are he or she has a classmate or friend who does. While research shows that the best time to learn a foreign language is during early childhood, comprehensive Pre-K and elementary school language programs still remain rare in our local community and across the country. The increasingly global community in which we live now demands an increasingly global and multilingual workforce. A recent national entrepreneur survey indicated that foreign language abilities are among the top five skills employers look for in today's workforce.
Would you like to get your child started on learning languages other than the one spoken in the home? Here are a few Web resources to get you started!
- Research on the Benefits of Foreign Language Learning (ACTFL)
http://www.actfl.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=4524
- BBC Languages: Interactive, Multimedia-Based Language Learning (Free!)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/languages/
Have questions? Want more information? Just ask! Be sure to check back soon for more information, tips, and advice!