At Tribeca Language, every teacher brings their own voice and perspective to the classroom. 
In this interview, we spoke with Cara, our Mandarin teacher, about what motivates her, what she enjoys most about working with children, and how she supports her students in their language learning journey.

1. What inspired you to become a language teacher for kids?
Language is such an important bridge that connects all the people in the world. Kids are natural language learner from beginning. 
To help kids learn something they genuinely want to know, and this being a new language, is very rewarding. 

Language classes taught with the communicative approach also tend to be more lively, varied, and engaging. Students should have fun in lessons, and that is rewarding to be a part of.

2. What do you enjoy most about teaching kids, and what makes them such a great audience for language learning?
One of the greatest rewards of teaching is seeing the progress of your students. From when students understand a difficult concept, to helping children learn a new skill, seeing a child's eyes light up after grasping a new piece of knowledge is priceless. Teaching is a career to be proud of.

3. How do you incorporate creativity or games into your lessons to keep kids excited about learning?
I give children choices. Children love feeling like they're in control. Make them laugh. I’m not afraid to incorporate some laughter in my lessons.

4. What are some of the most rewarding moments you've experienced while teaching children?
Being able to work with students each day, explore new ideas, and have fun learning with and from them is a very rewarding experience. Each day brings new opportunities to build relationships, engage in learning in different and meaningful ways, and make an impact on the lives of others.

5. What’s one thing you’ve learned from your students that has surprised or inspired you?
The thing I like most about teaching is my students. I love interacting with them, I love learning from them, I love helping them understand the content of any course and I love when they see the connection between what they are learning and their lives.

6. What are your favorite hobbies, or what do you like to do when you are not teaching?
I love cooking, I love outdoor activities and traveling.

7. How do you help children build confidence in speaking a new language?
Give them opportunities to use vocabulary and phrases that they already know well. Check they understand questions and instructions.

8. What advice would you give to parents who want to support their child’s language learning journey at home?
Sing songs and recite nursery rhymes. Songs and nursery rhymes are also fun to expose your child to new vocabulary and language concepts. They can also be enjoyable for both of you! Choose songs and nursery rhymes that are repetitive and have simple lyrics. This will make them more accessible for your child to follow along and learn from.

If you’re a parent raising your child in a bilingual or multilingual household, you may have noticed a puzzling pattern: even though your child understands your native language perfectly well, they often respond in English. It’s a common and sometimes frustrating experience for many families. But rest assured—it’s not a sign of rejection, laziness, or disinterest. It’s a natural part of growing up bilingual in an English-dominant environment.

Here are some key reasons why heritage-speaking children tend to answer in English:

1. English Feels Easier
Children are immersed in English at school, with peers, on screens, and in books. Even if they understand your language, English quickly becomes their dominant and most comfortable language for output. Speaking requires confidence in vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation—skills that are honed daily in English.

2. They Associate Languages with Contexts
To many children, languages serve different "functions." For example, English may feel like the “school and outside world” language, while the heritage language feels like the “home and family” language. Responding in English may feel more natural when discussing topics like school, TV shows, or social media, even if the conversation started in your native language.

3. They May Be Afraid Of Making Mistakes
Kids can be self-conscious, especially as they get older. If they feel unsure about how to correctly form a sentence in your language, they may prefer to stick to English where they feel more confident. This is especially true if they haven’t had formal instruction or consistent exposure in speaking and grammar.

4. Peer Pressure and the Desire to Fit In
Even the most culturally connected child wants to feel like they "belong." If their friends only speak English, it can reinforce the idea that English is the “cool” or “normal” language, while the heritage language feels “different.” They might internalize the idea that English is for “everyone” and the heritage language is only for family.

5. They Know You Understand English
Let’s be honest—kids are practical! If they know you understand English, they may not feel the need to make the extra effort to speak the heritage language. Why struggle to find a word in your native language when they know they’ll be understood in English?

What Can Parents Do?
The good news is that this isn’t a lost cause. Children who answer in English are still active bilinguals, and with encouragement and exposure, they can grow more confident using their heritage language.

Try these strategies
- Keep using your language with them, even if they answer in English.
- Encourage them gently to answer back in the heritage language—without shaming or correcting mid-sentence.
- Create authentic opportunities for speaking (playdates, classes, storytelling, travel, cultural events).

Celebrate their progress, even if it's small ("Great job using that word in Spanish!").

Enroll them in structured classes that focus on speaking and confidence-building.

Bottom line? If your child is answering in English, they’re not rejecting your language—they’re navigating two worlds. With time, support, and consistency, they can find pride and confidence in speaking both.

At Tribeca Language, we know that kids don’t just sit and learn—they move, laugh, sing, build, pretend, and play. That’s why our language programs are rooted in play-based learning. It’s not just more fun—it’s more effective.
Here are 10 reasons why play-based learning is the most powerful way for children to learn a new language:

1. Kids learn best when they’re having fun
 When children are enjoying themselves, their brains are more open to absorbing information. Play naturally lowers anxiety and increases motivation—two key ingredients for learning a language.

2. Play builds real communication skills
 From negotiating roles in a pretend grocery store to shouting out colors during a game of “Simon Says,” play encourages kids to use language in meaningful, real-life contexts—not just repeat vocabulary.

3. It boosts memory retention
 Songs, games, movement, and repetition lock in new vocabulary and structures in a memorable way. A child is much more likely to remember how to say “apple” after tossing a plush apple into a basket than by seeing it in a flashcard.

4. Play nurtures curiosity and confidence
 When kids explore freely, they ask questions and take risks. In a play-based class, mistakes aren’t scary—they’re part of the game. This builds the kind of fearless speaking that language learning thrives on.

5. It supports all types of learners
 Whether a child is visual, auditory, or kinesthetic, play-based activities naturally reach every learning style. Building with blocks, acting out stories, singing songs, or sorting objects—there’s something for everyone.

6. Repetition feels natural
 Repetition is key in language learning—but it can be boring. In play, repetition feels purposeful and fun. Kids will sing the same song or reenact the same story dozens of times—without even realizing they’re practicing.

7. It fosters social-emotional growth 
 Through pretend play and group games, kids practice taking turns, expressing feelings, solving problems, and cooperating—all in the target language. This emotional engagement deepens language learning.

8. Play creates real-world context
 Learning words in isolation doesn’t stick. But when a child learns the word “umbrella” while pretending it’s raining, or says “I’m hungry” in a pretend restaurant, the language is tied to context—and that makes it memorable.

9. It mirrors how children learn their first language 
 Just like how children learn their first language through everyday life and play, second (third or fourth...) language acquisition thrives when it mimics that natural, immersive process. It all in the intuitivity!

10. Play builds a positive association with the language
 Most importantly, play makes language learning joyful. When kids associate French, Spanish, or Mandarin with silliness, discovery, and laughter, they’re building a lifelong love for language.

Final Thought 
 At the end of the day, children aren’t just playing around—they’re building brain connections, cultural awareness, and communication skills that will last a lifetime. If you want your child to speak a new language—not just study it—play is the way.

1. Can you introduce A-List Education?
A-List is an education company focusing on test prep and college access. We work with students and families of all circumstances through online and in-person private tutoring as well as A-List instructor-led classrooms in schools, non-profits, and community-based organizations. I work with our Partners, Program Managers, and Educators making sure that our classes are efficient, entertaining, and successful.

2. What is your tutors’ selection and training process?
Our tutors are selected after a rigorous application process including phone interviews, a full-length SAT practice test, and a live demonstration where the Institutional staff members role-play by invoking the spirits of the students we serve. It’s a lot of fun, and it keeps the teachers on their toes from the start! Once an educator is hired, they undergo extensive training in content, strategies, and classroom management with some teaching philosophies peppered in along the way. They are asked to complete demos each week, and just like our students, they are assigned homework to complete after most lessons.

3. How are the classes structured? Do you use specific materials?
Our classes are structured for maximum student engagement and teacher freedom to tailor the lessons specifically for each class. We have lesson plans and a general guideline to follow for the entire course, but teachers are encouraged to linger or skip material depending on each class’s strengths and weaknesses. We have our own Book of Knowledge that each student receives, either in physical form or an ebook for our online classes. The Book of Knowledge comes complete with entertaining explanations, examples, and drills. Our teachers also have slides available to them so students have multiple visuals for each topic. We also provide three full length practice tests, with teacher review, to measure student improvement throughout the course.

4. How did you adapt to the pandemic-related challenges?
The pandemic caught our attention early on, and we rallied together as a team to create effective classes in the new normal. We provided our teachers with ongoing training on efficient management and engagement techniques for online sessions, implemented full courses through our Canvas LMS, and merged with Testive to provide our students with an online testing platform.

​5. How did A-List evolve with the pandemic constraints? Are there any lessons learned?
I think we learned a lot - mostly how we can move mountains when we work as a team. A-List has a shared goal amongst its employees: serving our students with maximum effort to set them up for success. We listened to the NYC DOE about student safety, moved our materials online for easier access, and increased our communication with students, parents, and admins providing extra support and availability to answer questions by staying informed.

6. How do you engage your students and keep them motivated?
Part of what makes A-List classes special are the Program Managers - they are an
additional level of support for not only our teachers, but also the students and for our partners in schools, nonprofits, and community-based organizations. The Program Managers are part of a highly caring, hard working team who are protective over their students and strive to ensure all-around success. The Program Managers and the teachers work together to hold students accountable and provide a lively, encouraging environment.

7. How do you ensure that students are getting the same level of support and practice from the online classes compared to in-person classes?
We fused the efforts of our US and UK team to set up our Canvas courses and eBook online so that students have access to the same materials they would in an in-person classroom. We provided ongoing, collaborative training for our teachers to help them provide a light, easy to attend classroom. Our Program Managers also visit each class more frequently to provide support, levity, and accountability.

8. How do you help your students with pre-exam anxiety?
Communication! We let students know that standardized tests are a fact of college
admissions and they play an important role; however, they are not the only factor in the admissions process. We also remind students that they can always take the test multiple times to try and relieve some pressure from them. I like to remind students of the effort they’ve put in throughout the course and their high school careers.

9. Do you include parents in the learning process of the students? If so, in which way?
That is actually one of our new initiatives this year! Historically, parents were brought in only if our Partners requested it. But while we are in a season of change, we feel there are only benefits to providing information and support for the parents of our students as well through frequent communication and potential workshops and online seminars.

10. What are the 5 words that best describe A-List Education?
Student-centered, Dedicated, Compassionate, Thorough, High-achieving

​11. What lies ahead for A-List Education?
We’re looking forward to warmer weather and reconnecting with our students in-person again soon!

Through the depths of high school classes, comes the decision to take an elective. Besides more job opportunities or a chance to travel outside the country, you will be embarking on the long journey that involves learning a language. My days at my high school French class required both stamina and the discipline of my other classes. However, I loved every moment from listening to the music of Edith Piaf to stumbling on my less than perfect French pronunciation. My experience has also equipped me with techniques on how to not only make learning a language easier, but also enjoyable. If you’re looking for some guidance, here are my tips on learning a second language.

Choose A Language Of Your Interest
Is there a language you are drawn to? Maybe you always had a love of Spanish music. Or perhaps you always liked reading manga. If you’re studying a language, you want to have an inkling on interest. You are investing a lot of your time as it is, so why not immerse yourself into the language of your choosing. It is beyond learning how to communicate; you are also diving into the culture.

Study Outside the Classroom
Although your teachers will instruct you to practice through homework, there is much more to it. If you would like to truly master the language, make it a priority to set aside practice. This can involve making flashcards to review on your commute, listening to audio recording of said language, etc. You want to make sure that you are incorporating exposure to either listening, speaking, or writing the language throughout the day.

Set Goals You Want Achieve
What do would you like to take away from the class/lesson? If you are a beginner, this may become clearer once you become familiar with language. Furthermore, as you advance there will specific goals you would like to achieve. Some of these could include better communication with family and/or friends, traveling to another country, or better opportunities in your desired job field. Once you become more fluent, the more motivation you’ll gain to achieve these goals.

Buy A Pocket Dictionary
I strongly recommend this step. Why? Lessons and/or classes will expose as much vocabulary as they can to you. But they can’t cover every word. There will be a time where you wish you knew a specific term for a topic or conversation in mind. Yes, we live in a time where Google exists. Nevertheless, the pocket dictionary will be 100% accurate without the worry of misinformation. (Plus, you can use it class).

Pick Up Conversation With Others
At first, this can intimidating. In my experience, I was shy about practicing my Italian in front of family members. Regardless, it is important to practice your conversational skills. It was not until I decided to assist Italian customers at my retail jobs and enforce me to use the language outside the classroom. This truly tested whether I can communicate in a foreign language. You might not be perfect, but the more you use it the better you will become!

Take Advantage of Language Learning Apps
Although our lessons can be a great source of learning, there are great online tools designed for language assessment. Using apps such as Duolingo and Memrise are not only convenient, but makes learning a lot more engaging. This can be an added supplement to your studies and aid in enhancing your vocabulary skills. In my personal use, it made speaking exercises enjoyable and less intimidating.

Watch Foreign Films & TV
We generally absorb information quicker through visual and auditory practice. Watching foreign films, TV shows, or listening to music in another language can assist you in learning language exceptionally well. Not only are you paying closer attention to dialogue, but you are simultaneously translating by reading English subtitles. The same applies to reading translated lyrics to a song. Time to use your scheduled K-dramas or Spanish soap operas to good use!

Stay Motivated!
The most important tip of all; stay motivated! Most students will say that taking a second language is both difficult and rewarding. Of course this is true. The transition to our regular English language to learning a whole new system of grammar and pronunciation can be alarming. Remember that is meant to challenge you, and the ability to speak whatever language you choose will outweigh all your fears. Use your online tools, practice outside class, and encourage yourself to speak. You may fumble on your words at first, but you can only get better!

If you are looking to pick up a foreign language, you will not regret it. Taking French in high school has allowed me to experience a culture other than my own. It helped me break out of my shell and try something new. Whether you decide to take a Spanish class or a lesson in Chinese, you will feel accomplished knowing you expanded your communication skills. Hopefully, these tips will aid in your journey ahead. Best of Luck!

In a world of modern languages, why choose Latin? Maybe you’re looking for a couple of reasons why it’s actually worth learning. Or perhaps you are wanting to reassure yourself of the advantages it could have for your son/daughter. Truth be told, studying Latin is beyond an intellectual boost. It can introduce different job opportunities, expand your English skills, and even your perspective on life. How can a language offer all of this? Well that’s the beauty of learning Latin. If you need further convincing, here are other reasons why your teen should pick up Latin ASAP.

It Aids In Learning Other Languages
One major component to learning Latin is familiarity to a “root language.” In other words, it is the foundation for many of the modern languages we speak today. More specifically, the romance languages: Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, and Romanian. All of these languages include more than 80% of words taken from Latin! Aside from vocabulary, it will be much easier for your child to understand grammar structure and noun agreements.

A Better Understanding of the English Language
Aside from Romance languages, Latin can strengthen skills in English. It will help your son/daughter develop a sense of vocabulary, and what these words are composed of. How can this help your him/her understand English exactly? By understanding word structure, he/she will have better grammar skills compared to those who may have not picked up Latin. According to research, learning one Latin root is contained in over 100 English words. Your child will master vocabulary not only efficiently but effectively.

An Upper Hand in the Medical Field
If your son/daughter has aspirations to become a doctor, learning Latin will be a huge bonus. How so? Much of the terminology that is used amongst medical professionals is derived almost entirely from Latin. It was actually required at one time for medical students in the UK to learn Latin because how beneficial it could be. Not only will they become familiar with the terms, but also with the origins of medicine and physiology. A 2007 study found that medical students who learned Latin were able have a better experience in the field. Why dismiss a language that can help your teenager immerse him/herself in into field?

Learn About Modern Sciences
Is your teenager not interested in medicine? Learning Latin can aid in studying modern sciences such as sociology, chemistry, psychology, biology, and economics. In fact, all modern science use vocabulary composed of Latin roots. It isn’t exclusive to the medical field! For example, biology terms such as “fungus” and “bacterium” are singular words that often mistaken for being plural. A student who studies Latin can easily understand that the plural form is actually “fungi” and bacteria” by learning about root endings. By understanding the material, it will help make the studying process for your teenager a lot more easier!

An Insight To A Career In Computer Science
Did you know that the word “computer” comes from Latin? It is taken from “computo” which means to add or sum up. Learning Latin is similar to the assessment process in computer science. Latin is a language that has a similar process to learning codes on a computer. Both require to identify patterns and create a system of “codes.” Teens will have no problem breaking down a number system, if they already applied that same knowledge into Latin.

Get To Learn About Law and Government
What if your teen isn’t interested in the sciences? Latin is still present in many other careers such as government, law, and theology. The foundation of modern day politics and law come from both Greek and Latin history. So if your teenager exhibits any ambition into enrolling in a political science major, this can be a vital skill. Latin is actually known as the “language of law.” In fact, have you ever noticed legal terms that are used today came from this language? Some of these terms include habeas corpus, veto, subpoena, capitol, etc.

Gaining Insight in Ancient History
As your teenager goes to college, they are bound to take classes of ancient history. Learning Latin can actually help initiate the subject at a more easier and enjoyable level. Students can understand where Latin stems from, while also studying terminology that has to do with science, medicine, philosophy, and theology. Not only will it help with their classes in school, but also expose them to a variety of different subjects. It could spark an interest for their future career!

Preforming Better Academically
Are you looking to improve your teen’s SAT scores? Learning Latin can actually help improve both their literacy and math scores. It begins with his/her understanding of vocabulary, as we discussed previously. This helps a student grasp reading passages successfully, while expanding their skills to figure out words they might have known. Thus, helping them develop their logic skills. Math subjects such as Algebra, requires the same logical thinking one uses with Latin assessment.

Expanding the Mind Beyond Academics
Although Latin can bring education and job benefits, it extends beyond that. It can help develop one’s mind logically. Latin is said to be a mental workout, or training to think differently. The language itself is a system that follows strict rules of grammar, word structure, attention to this detail. A word in Latin can have multiple meanings. It is more than learning vocabulary, but applying a whole new way of using, speaking, and assessing the language. This can establish your teen to a sense of discipline.

If you’re considering to introduce language to your child, why not recommend Latin? At first, it may seem like an intimidating decision, but it reigns plenty of benefits. Your teenager will appreciate taking a language that can guide them through their vocational field. There are countless reasons why this can be favorable. Or, you can enroll your younger children in a class that can grow their love for this language. Why not consider a language that is an open doorway to both success and opportunity?

During these unprecedented times, we are all looking for different ways to educate ourselves. If you are a parent, you know the struggle of keeping your children entertained. Or let alone try to convince them that online school can be fun. However, you will be surprised to know the benefits that online learning classes can offer to your little one. It could be fun, especially if it involves learning a language. If you’re looking to expand your child’s language learning via online, here are ten advantages of taking online learning classes.

1) A More Focused Environment
Kids tend to be unfocused in an outside environment, such as their typical classroom. At home, there is less room for distraction and instead are required to focus on their screen. If a child is more introverted, they will be comforted by the idea of their parent or guardian right beside in another room. This allows them to be in a homely environment, which in turn will help your son/daughter be at ease while they learn.

2) There Are Shorter Lessons
Does your child require more effort to be able to concentrate? An advantage to online lessons is that they are much shorter than the traditional setting. It can be as little as 15 minutes a session. Online learning is lenient on time; as long as the teacher feels that the bases are covered for the day in which it can end shortly.

3) Interaction Beyond Viewing A Screen
Worried that the screen won’t be appealing to your little one? This is a common misconception. Teachers are actually finding unique ways to teach kids online! When it comes to language assessment, your child will be exposed to interactive worksheets, games, and even puppetry. There is effort to make online learning participle between the teacher and student. Instead of watching a teacher write on a board, your son/daughter will be able to use the screen and be hands on with each lesson.

4) Learning in the Comfort of Their Home
Another key benefit to online learning, is the ability to do it right at home! There isn’t the worry to rush in the morning to get your kid to a lesson. Instead he/she can wake up, have their breakfast, and go straight to their Zoom class without hassle. Is your little one having a hard time getting ready one particular day? No problem, the class can per-take in the comfort of their own bed.

5) Your Child Will Gain More Confidence
Shyer children tend to stray away from participating in class and/or groups. Online learning can actually encourage children to be more active in class. If your kid is already placed in an environment where they feel comfortable, it helps ease a lot of their own pressure. There isn’t focus on the themselves from their peers or teacher, which can usually happen in a class setting. Instead, your child can participate whenever they feel without the anxiety of being concentrated on.

6) Being Able To Learn Whenever, Wherever
We have already discussed the convenience of a flexible environment. The added bonus to this, is that your child can learn anywhere! They can learn from their room, bed, or their grandparent’s house. You decided to take them on vacation? They can even learn a language with the hotel’s internet access. There is room to accommodate to the parent’s and child’s schedule, thus also allowing to choose the right time frame. It is a great feature for children who are constantly on the go.

7) There is More Student Engagement
With the use of interactive learning features, there is more student engagement. The use of hands on technology can make learning look more appealing. For example, there is the use of video, presentations with fun graphics, and gameplay. Naturally, we want our children to be more engaged and realize that learning can be enjoyable. This will definitely keep your little ones entertained!

8) Interactive Learning With Props at Home
Have you ever realized that your own home can be a source of learning? With kids particularly, they are more open to the use of their imagination. Teachers are free to use ordinary props in their homes to make language more interactive. It is a creative way to learn vocabulary in a visual way, without the dullness of writing words on a whiteboard. Props can be used to describe colors, or to aid with puppets. Your child can even present props in their home, and inspire them to want to do the same as their teacher.

9) There is Flexibility To Learn More Topics
Usually in group/classroom settings, teachers tend to discourage side topics. However, this is welcomed in online learning. There is more room for storytelling, and incorporating conversations into lessons because of the flexible time schedule. If your child has a story to share, the teacher can use it as an opportunity to expand the lesson. If there are questions about other topics, it is not seen as a distraction. In fact, it can allow spontaneity for the teacher to add a twist to their lesson plan.

10) Using Your Kid’s Screen To Learn
If you’re looking for a way to prioritize your child’s screen time, online classes can help. We know that kids are using their screens more than ever before. So why not find a way to use their time on the iPad for education? Your little one will see that taking a language class will be similar to playing an app. There are games, interactions with other peers, and plenty of screen time used in learning session. You can satisfy your child’s need for using the tablet or computer while sneaking in time to learn a language. A double win!

It is valuable to consider how favorable technology can be in our children’s education. In more ways than one, online learning can be beneficial to learning a language. Your son/daughter will appreciate the comfort of their environment, gain confidence, and experience language in a whole new way. There are numerous classes your little one can sign up for right at home! With over seventeen languages to choose from, we can guarantee your child will be eager to start their new journey online.

Out of all the languages to learn, why choose Greek? Besides its rich culture and popularized cuisine, there is more to the language than meets the eye. Have you ever wanted to introduce your child to a language beyond the reason of practicality? In other words, do you want a language that can transcend your child’s view on history, literature, philosophy, and much more? Studying Greek has all these advantages! If you would like more detail, here are the benefits your child will gain from learning Greek.

A Greater Understanding of Ancient History
One of the most interesting pieces of history begins in Ancient Greece. While learning Greek, your teen could be introduced to time periods beyond American history. Much of this isn’t actually taught in detail because of a lot of these texts are written in Greek. An example of a text could be Thucydides’ “History of the Peloponnesian War.” It is a significant time in history that is usually brushed upon in today’s history classes. This
could be a great opportunity to show how history and language come hand in hand. Your child could also develop a love for the subject and thus turn to a career in the field of archeology or history.

Learn About Key Philosophers and Literature
Much of the world’s most renown literature comes from Ancient Greece. If you’re hoping to initiate an interest in reading, learning Greek could help. Most teens enjoy the world of mythology and one of the most popular book franchises stem from that topic; Percy Jackson & The Olympians. Aside from modern fiction, your teenager could learn the classics such as the Odyssey and Illiad. But how can learning about the great philosophers such as Socrates and Plato have any benefits? As your son/daughter goes to college, the goal is expand their thinking. Learning Greek could be a great way to start that expansion early.

Appreciating More Cultural Aspects
Besides literature and history, Greek culture extends to much more. One of this includes ancient Greek art. Their art or “arete” extends from learning about mythology to the fundamentals of sculpture. Your kid’s interest in Greek can expand to going to museums that showcase Greek art and architecture. A few of them include the MoMA, the Brooklyn Museum, and the Onassis Cultural Center here in NYC. Another big cultural aspect is Greek food. There is a ton of cuisine that can explored. The best part? Your teen could learn the best authentic restaurant’s in town, while having extensive knowledge about the menu.

Improves English Grammar and Literacy
Did you know that Greek is also a foundation for modern languages? Yes, that also includes English! According to research, more than 50% of English words come from Greek. Students who study Greek, also have a better understanding of English though identifying “root words.” This means they understand the origin of the word by breaking it down in smaller meanings. For example, the word “anthropomorphism” is broken
down into “anthropos” and “morphe” which means “man” and “form.” It can help understand vocabulary that your child may initially not know the meaning of.

Absorbing A Second Language Much Easier
You might be aware that Latin is known as the “mother” of Romance Languages; but Greek is as well! In fact, Greek was involved in many of the modern languages such as Italian, French, and Spanish. These languages also have similar “root words” and follow the principles of grammar. If your child enters college with a foundation of Greek, their language requirement will be a breeze!

Training the Brain to Think More Logically
Studies have shown that learning Greek is a way to sharpen your mind. The language is similar to figuring out a new system. It is built on associating words with memorizing patterns and forming words with a “formula.” This helps develop critical thinking skills, through training the brain to think more systematically. Thus, Greek encourages you to think more logically. It is truly a language that develops both the creative and cognitive part of your brain.

Initiating Careers in STEM, Law, and Government
The origin of careers in science, law, and government actually begin in Ancient Greece. If your son/daughter has an interest in any of these fields, having Greek on their resume will benefit greatly. Much of the terminology used today is from the Greek language. Your teenager could learn how these careers even began thanks to the contribution of Ancient Greece. They were the first civilization to actually study medicine, establish a sense of government, and write laws. Why not study a language that is the principle to what all of us study presently?

Traveling to Greece With Ease
An added bonus to all this, comes down to the benefit of traveling to Greece. In a country where the language is known to locals only, imagine being able to get around easily? Your child’s dream to travel to Greece will be much more enjoyable! He/she can get the insight of the country’s hidden delicacies and lifestyle. It will transform their trip from a tourist to a Greek civilian.

So you decided that your little one should learn a language. A great choice nonetheless, but now you’re debating how exactly you will start your assessment. This leads to the bigger question at hand; should I sign up for classes or private lessons? There are countless reasons why you should opt for one or the other, which make the decision process a little tricky. Although, you will recognize that ultimately one option is the perfect fit. How about we look at the benefits of both classroom and private lessons.

Private Lessons:

Personalized Lessons
One major component to private lessons is having a personalized curriculum. Some students will already have little knowledge of the language they are interested in. Therefore, they do not need to follow a traditional framework that will be used in a classroom setting. A private lesson can provide the individual learner to choose which skills they would like to focus on. For example, you may express to your child’s teacher that he/she is proficient in speaking Italian but not writing in Italian. Private lessons can be customized to focus solely on grammar and practicing reading Italian texts. There is room for accommodation, without the pressure of following a curriculum.

Accommodations For Those With Special Needs
The upside to private lessons is the accommodations for special need children. Private tutors can offer a range of tools and strategies to make the learning process a whole lot easier. One of them includes one on one assessment, without the distraction of other students. It can also include playing games or engaging in hands on activated that are not always welcome in a classroom setting. As well as encouraging breaks or allowing
distractions without the fear of falling behind.

A Flexible Schedule
Another advantage to private lessons is the ability to create your own schedule. Unlike the classroom setting, there isn’t a specific date or time you need to attend. Lessons are catered closely to whatever obligations you may have. If you are a parent, you can adhere to a time frame where your kids are at school or around their bedtime. Your responsibilities will no longer get in the way of mastering a new language.

There is a craft behind learning Mandarin. Filled with a rich history, built on art and symbolism, has carried on to a multitude of generations. In fact, it has become the most spoken in the world! Imagine China’s mother tongue ultimately reaching a grand total 1.4 billion speakers? Beyond communication skills, it can enrich your child’s life in both a mental and social capacity. If you would like to introduce son/daughter to a transformative language, here are other benefits of learning Mandarin.

A Language Meant for Kids
Did you know that Mandarin is considered an easy language for kids? The vocabulary itself is made up of patterns and symbols. Younger children are able to grasp this particular system because they tend to be visual learners. Therefore, they are susceptible to interpret these complex characters relatively quicker compared to teens and adults. This phonetic alphabet is also meant to be logical, and less compose of grammar rules that Romance languages have such as Spanish or French. For example, there are no plurals in Chinese! A literal translation for “two pencils” is “lots of paper.”

Learning A Coveted Art Form
The most interesting aspect of learning Mandarin may be its unique chirography. It breaks the conventional way of how most of us were taught; which involves a standard alphabet. Instead, the foundation lies behind mastering an art form of different symbols and symmetry. It goes beyond your child learning just how to speak a second language, but also getting to grasp a form of ancient art. There is storytelling and meaning behind how these patterns were created. An example would be the symbol for human (人) and big (大) combined makes the word adult (大人)

Greater Appreciation for Chinese Culture
As a parent, you would like your child to become well rounded and a cultured individual. Why not introduce a language that is shared by millions of people around the world? Mandarin, as we previously discussed, has one of the most unique and richest background of history. It can as far as the B.C. era, where Chinese dynasties were formed and still hold a relevance today. Aside from an extensive and delicious cuisine, your child could experience their distinctive views of modern life. Your son/daughter can be exposed to the benefits of mindfulness, or the sacred forms of martial arts.

Improved Math Skills
Are you hoping to improve your little one’s skills in math? Practicing Mandarin can simultaneously help with basic fundamentals and counting. According to Tessa International School, it incorporates mathematical concepts when learning how to speak and/or write. A lot of the vocabulary involves putting two characters together in order to create one a whole new word; similarly to how a formula is structured as. Therefore, your child will already be accustomed to being predisposed to algebra concepts!

Increasing Motor Skills
Did you know that your little one can also increase their motor and cognitive skills? Mandarin involves a diligent practice such learning a new method of writing. According to AsiaSociety.org , the handwriting technique used cam actually assist your child’s motor development. The act of drawing different shapes and recognizing hieroglyphics, will train your child to activate use both their left and right side of the brain.

Becoming Musically Inclined
One of the most surprising facts about assessing this language, is the multiple pronunciations involved. An article from The Atlantic, explains how the different tones used throughout speaking Mandarin can actually aid in vocal ability. Different pronunciations of the same word can have a completely different meaning! It is almost impossible to be “monotone.” Studies have shown that Mandarin speakers were able to identify musical pitches better than English speakers.

Future Career Opportunities
A second language can guarantee success in the job market. However, once your child masters Mandarin that will have an even bigger advantage. Career fields such as business, politics, and communications all see this as a high commodity. China also is considered to have the biggest economy in the world. The ability to have a chance to be in this economic market can have plenty of opportunities.