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.

That time of year has finally come: the season of AP exams. If you decided to take a foreign language this year, chances are you’re hoping to gain college credit. Time to make that effort spent participating in your Spanish class worth it! Before you begin to study, you may be looking for some guidance on how to prepare for this particular exam. Luckily, my own experience in taking two foreign languages can help you. To help you lessen the stress, here are a few ways to prepare for the AP Language & Culture Exam.

1) ​Use Your Index Cards
Believe or not, this is actually a game changer. It could seem like an outdated concept, but a few tips can aid in your study prep more than you think. Index cards can help organize your vocabulary while simultaneously help with memorization. The act of handwriting notes and other class related material improves your memory. According to the Journal of Educational Study, those who took handwritten notes scored significantly
better on tests than those who took notes on their laptop. Incorporate your index cards to include key grammar rules, verb conjugations, and/or commonly used vocabulary.

2) Schedule A Reasonable Time To Study
Organization is an important factor when it comes to high test scores. Besides keeping your notes and study material in order, managing your time is crucial. As someone who was taking multiple exams, I always made sure to dedicate specific time frames for my subjects. This means, when I wanted to study for AP Italian, I designated an hour each day leading to the exam. No more, no less, but kept it consistent. Set a time that you feel suites your needs. Assign more time if you need it, and less if you don’t.

3) Brush Up On Cultural References
Remember; this is called the AP Language and Culture Exam. During class, you learned cultural components such as food, lifestyle, music, art, etc. The exam will test you on these topics in a multiple choice section, auditory exercise, or through essay format. You can easily brush up on cultural references through watching videos in said language, listen to music, etc. Review your notes that also indicate historical figures; the exam loves to reference famous musicians and artists!

4) Use Netflix To Practice Auditory Comprehension
Need a break from writing and referencing your study guide? Watching Netflix can be a form of studying (in moderation). There are tons of shows and movies that are spoken entirely in Spanish, French, Mandarin, and other languages you are currently studying. As you are watching Netflix, the act of listening to the language and reading English subtitles is a form of studying! You are practicing auditory comprehension. If you wanted to watch your favorite American tv series, you can set the subtitles in another language to aid in reading comprehension. Other mediums such as music or tuning into foreign radio stations, can also assist in your studying too.

5) Familiarize Yourself More With Grammar
When you take the test, expect to see many questions related to grammar. Whether that is in the form of multiple choice or applying it in essay form. Your test prep should include the following key categories of grammar ; memorizing the gender of nouns, verb tenses (present, past, and future), pluralization, verb conjugation, contractions, and questions. If you master all of these concepts, you will be answer to almost every question correctly. You don’t have to be an expert; but be familiar with these significant grammar points.

6) Memorize Categories of Vocabulary
You probably studied vocabulary in sections or been tested by categories. The AP exam will pick vocabulary in any topic range. This could be food, family, education, politics, and other areas you have covered. However, do not stress over memorizing every single word. Do your best in acquiring a healthy amount of words in each topic. Utilize those flashcards and split them into categories you learned in school. Or look at images that have the word included; this will help you associate the two together.

7) Take Advantage of Online Tools
Apps that promote language learning are your best friends. The most popular that will ring a bell to you is Duolingo. This can be a fun studying aid, and can provide a more fun relief to your usual routine. The app has exercises that include listening, speaking, and reading comprehension. Quizlet, is another app that acts, in the best way I can describe, virtual “index cards.” It features hundreds of vocabulary terms, also split into specific categories commonly taught in your language curriculum. Pretty neat!

8) Review Your Past Exams
Put those tests you took during the year into use. Your teacher most definitely included questions and exercises that will be in your exam. He/she might have even took a few questions from past AP tests… and I am speaking from personal experience. This will also be a good way to see where you tested well and poorly in. Perhaps there was a section in grammar you need to go over more. It is a good assessment to see how well you did in various topics throughout the year.

9) Make A List of Your Strengths & Weaknesses
The upside to all of your college test prep is figuring our where your strengths and weaknesses lye. Especially in language, there are areas where we feel more comfortable than the other. Create a list or schedule that caters to what you should focus on. If you need help with vocabulary, set aside time to make index cards and review your reading comprehension. If it’s grammar, review exercises you have done in class or find worksheets online. Still not sure how to go about it? Tribeca Language offers both class and private lessons that will help aide in your study process!

The preparation for the AP Language & Culture Exam can seem overwhelming. Nevertheless, there are always tips and tricks to make the process a lot easier. We hope that this advice can help you navigate in your study prep journey. Although, if you seek additional guidance, we offer both private lessons and class instruction in 14 different languages! Best of luck!

​1) Innate Acquisition of the Language  
Till 8 years old, a child is at his/her prime time to learn a whole range of skills. One of those skills includes learning a language. According to the University of Washington Institute, a child’s brain development from as early as a few months to three-years-old is optimal for learning language. Your child’s brain at that age frame is described as a “sponge”, meaning he/she can easily absorb information at a higher rate compared to an older age. Also, you can fill in your child’s time by incorporating games and activities that have to do with studying a new language. The reason being, there won’t be any distractions of playing with toys or video games. It’s much easier to introduce workbooks, tapes, and index cards because your child will find it fun!
 
2) Improving Their Development
There are multiple studies and research done that show how becoming bilingual can improve your child’s development, more specifically, their cognitive learning skills. Bilingual children have shown higher levels of problem-solving skills and creativity. You may believe that the skillset stops there. However, research has also shown that it can improve a child’s verbal skills as well. If you are already incorporating a second language at home, your child is well on his/her way to guaranteed success.
 
3) Gaining More Self-Confidence
Can your child really become more confident through language? Definitely so. Children love the feeling they get when they learn something new. More importantly, they enjoy the recognition or proud look you give them when they have made an achievement. Learning a new language can lead them to be enthusiastic about learning other areas as well! To help build up that confidence, you could encourage your child and let him/her feel that the process of being immersed in a language can be fun. Reward them for learning new vocabulary words or when they successfully understood a sentence in Spanish. It will allow them to want to discover the language even more.
 
4) Becoming More Worldly
Introducing your child to a language can lead them to learning about more culture. It is important to have children learn from a young age that there are other people of different cultures, backgrounds and languages (and their culture) who should be celebrated. It will help them see that the world is not so small; there are plenty of people you can meet that do not necessarily look or act like the grown-ups they are familiar with. You can have them experience new food, music, and neighborhoods just by having them immerse themselves in learning a new language. Perhaps it will inspire them to take a trip to France or Japan one day.
 
5) Making More Friends
Once your little one learns how to carry a conversation in another language, he/she can talk to people beyond their social circle. Maybe they will talk to a classmate who they could not talk to before. Or perhaps, as they get older, it will allow them to converse with many more people through work, college, and/or any social setting. It will help your growing child expand his/her way of making new friends. Who knows, it could also lead them to making friends in other countries as well. There will not be a language barrier that will stop them from experiencing other people from other cultures.
 
6) Closer Family Bonds
Perhaps you may believe that most of the time spent with your child will be focused on language practice. However, did you consider that this could be a bonding experience? Whether you are teaching them their heritage language or a career-making language, this is a perfect opportunity to spend one-on-one time with your child. With classes, such as baby and me classes or family language classes, you will be incorporating both play and learning at the same time. You may even be learning along with them. Moreover, this can (also) be a chance for the whole family to learn together. Did you want to include their other siblings? Perhaps they can help along the teaching process and guide their younger sibling.
 
7) Improving Their Native Language
Mastering a second language can help improve their English skills as well. According to the University of Washington Institute, bilingual children showed higher levels of English comprehension compared to children who were monolingual. When learning a romance language such as Italian or Spanish, you will discover that your child will be exposed to more grammar practice. When compared to English, grammar rules are not heavily focused and therefore much easier to forget as we get older. By grasping a second language, a better understanding for English grammar will improve significantly.
 
8) Performing Better In School
Generally, studies have shown that children who knew a second language performed better in school than students who did not. Those who were bilingual have strong skills in English, particularly in reading and writing skills. How so? By speaking and reading a second language, it helps children pay closer attention to word structure. They also need to have a strong sense of memorizing vocabulary, which in turn develops stronger spelling skills. Research has also shown that the discipline of learning a second language helps with a child’s behavioral skills. In other words, they are less likely to have behavioral problems in a classroom setting.
 
9) Higher Test Scores
While your child continues to excel in his/her school studies, the benefits of learning a second language also helps in standardized testing. The College Entrance Examination Board released studies that show those who were bilingual significantly higher on the verbal section than those who were monolingual. Besides specific sections, those who studied a foreign language scored an overall high SAT score than students who did not.  Not thinking that far ahead? 3rd to 5th graders who are bilingual and took standardized state testing had high scores in all language arts sections.
 
10) More Job Opportunities
Just like many parents, you are hoping to help your child develop skills that will help his/her future. If your child lists a second language as a skill on their resume, he/she will be well prepared for the workforce. Many jobs are interested in hiring candidates who are bilingual. Or that they have an intermediate skillset in a language. This will especially help your children who want to enter the business, medical, law, education, or administration field in future. It is a skill that will bring your child to places you would not normally think of.
 
There are numerous reasons how a second language can enrich your child’s life. Not only academically, but even socially as he/she continues to grow older. Perhaps you will help them discover a whole new world of opportunity. Or lead them to going to new places, meet new people, and a greater chance of success. You will never know what this could lead to in the future. Tribeca Language offers a variety of classes, of over 13 languages to choose from! Whether you decide to pick up a private lesson or class environment, this is a fun and strategic choice to make for your child’s development and success.  
 
Check out our online children’s group classes here and private classes here.

Students still have time to register for AP Language Tests and put their knowledge of a foreign language to good use. AP Language Tests are available in 7 different language and will start taking place in May. As of now, all exams will take place in schools. ​

See AP exam schedule below:  

AP Chinese Language and Culture - 
May 14th, 2021 -  12 pm Local Time (In school) - Computer- based
May 21st, 2021 -  12 pm Local Time (In school) - Computer- based
June 4th, 2021 - 8 am Local Time (In school) - Computer- based

AP French Language and Culture 
May 10th, 2021 - 8 am Local Time (Paper, In school)
May 21st, 2021 - 12 pm Local Time (Paper, In school)
June 4th, 2021 - 12 pm Local Time (Paper, In school)

AP German Language and Culture 
May 4th, 2021 - 12pm Local Time (Paper, In school)
May 21st, 2021 - 12 pm Local Time (Paper, In school)
June 4th, 2021 - 12 pm Local Time (Paper, In school)

AP Italian Language and Culture
May 14th, 2021 - 8am Local Time (Paper, In school)
May 21st, 2021 - 8am Local Time (Paper, In school)
June 4th, 2021 - 8 am Local Time (Paper, In school)

AP Japanese Language and Culture 
May 5th, 2021 - 8 am Local Time (In school) - Computer- based
May 21st, 2021 - 8 am Local Time (In school) - Computer- based
June 4th, 2021 - 8 am Local Time (In school) - Computer- based

AP Latin 
May 21st, 2021 - 8am Local Time (Paper, In school)
June 4th, 2021 - 8 am Local Time (Paper, In school)

AP Spanish Language  and Culture 
May 11th, 2021 - 8 am Local Time (Paper, In school)
May 21st, 2021 - 8 am Local Time (Paper, In school)
June 4th, 2021 - 8 am Local Time (Paper, In school)

AP Spanish Literature and Culture 
May 7th, 2021 - 8 am Local Time (Paper, In school)
May 21th, 2021 - 12 pm Local Time (Paper, In school)
June 4th, 2021 - 12 pm Local Time (Paper, In school)

For more info and details, visit The College Board website.

​

Denmark’s Way With Words
 You may think Valentine’s Day has been around for centuries - but Denmark is an exception. It was until the 1990’s, that the holiday was even recognized! The history tells a tale of flower vendors who had hopes of making this day conventional. With no such luck, a popular supermarket chain called Netto decided to promote items with a “romantic” theme. The products were marketed during Valentine’s Day season and many people soon contributed to what made it mainstream. Today, some of the traditions include exchanging white flowers called “snow drops.” As well as exchanging cards with their loved one’s picture, and it so vital that this tradition is named the “lover’s card.”
 
France Is For the Lovers
It would be silly to not mention how this country celebrates Valentine’s Day. After all, their most popular city is known as “the city of love.” France typically acknowledges this holiday to romantic couples only. It is actually seen as a bit odd, or even frowned upon, to send Valentine’s gift to friends or family. Those in relationships will typically send each other flowers or go out for dinner. However, card giving is actually rare! This does not only happen for this particular day, but other holidays as well. France also creates special themed chocolates and pastries, but only at chocolateries and pâtisseries.
 
China’s Most Popular Day of Marriage
In China, most of traditions stem from Western Culture. Like the U.S., they too exchange flowers, chocolates, any small gifts. Specifically, men are encouraged to send only red roses, jewelry, or even a dress. Women will typically purchase manly items such as a watch or a tie. This day also follows a romantic dinner date, with a special menu. Movie theaters are an even bigger date spots for Valentine’s Day. In addition, there is one special tradition that is specific to Chinese culture. Those who are looking to wed or recently engaged often plan their wedding registry on Valentine’s Day. How romantic!
 
Italy’s Ode To Romeo & Juliet
Similarly to France, Italy has declared Valentine’s Day exclusively for the lovers and sweethearts. In fact, the day is also called “La Festa Degli Innamorati”, which translates to “The Day of Those Who Are In Love”. Much like American culture, they follow the tradition of exchanging chocolates and flowers. Some of the more Italian traditions includes incorporating certain themes that could relate to Valentine’s Day. The infamous region of Perugina, for instance, makes a special edition of their “Baci” chocolate candy. The chocolate is usually hazelnut centered but is replaced with a cherry filling for the occasion. It is also wrapped in a festive red wrapper, with a romantic phrase inside. Verona, located in Rome, designates a four-day Valentine’s Day festival to honor the birthplace and romance of Romeo and Juliet. The festival includes free concerts and a contest for the “best letter written to Juliet.”
 
South Korea Breaks A Romance Norm
Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity for the single women of South Korea. Unlike most traditional festivities, it is a day for a woman to make the first move. Women in Korea are expected to give chocolates to the man they are interested in or have feelings for. Men are actually not supposed to exchange a gift in return until March 14th, a holiday called White Day. This day is dedicated for the men who received chocolates on Valentine’s Day are supposed to give the women either white chocolate or lingerie. Some men even follow the “Rule of 3”, where he is supposed spend 3x more than what the woman spent. On the other hand, Valentine’s Day is still considered a big day for chocolate companies regardless. The most popular are Ferrero Rocher, Twix, and Chupa Chups.
 
What are other interesting traditions to know about?
There are other counties that have their own unique Valentine’s Day customs:
 
In Germany, Valentinstag (Valentine’s Day in German) is considered an adult holiday. The most notable tradition is the lebkuchen – a ginger heart with a special message addressed to the person’s valentine, most likely Ïch liebe dich”(I love you)  
 
Valentine’s Day in Russia did not become popular until just 30 years ago, in 1991, after the collapse of the USSR. Russians in general exchange customary gifts. However, giving flowers is the utmost romantic gesture a woman can receive.
 
In Mexico, this day is to celebrate the love for your family and friends.That is why this day is known as  El Día del Amor y la Amistad (The Day of Love and Friendship).
 
Japan has adistinctive way of celebrating Valentine’s Day. This includes giving 3 different kinds of chocolates to their loved ones depending on the type of relationships they have with them: ”Giri Choco” - 義理チョコ – known as the obligation chocolates are meant for  co-workers and family members. ”Honmei Choco” - 本命チョコ is for romantic relationships or a romantic interest. ”Tomo Choco” - 友チョコ is for single women to give to their closest female friends.
 
In Brazil, Valentine’s Day is not on February 14th, instead they have Dia dos Namorados (translated as “Lovers’ Day”) which falls on June 12th. The main reasons are to prevent any interference with the Carnival which usually happens around February 14th, and instead is on the eve of a very romantic Day – Saint Anthony’s Day. Saint Anthony is known as the patron of marriage of young couples.
 
In India, Valentine’s Day is a recent tradition imported from the Western. On one hand, this is widely accepted by the younger more liberal generations. On the other hand, the older more traditional generations are having a hard time accepting a modern holiday – which creates protests and demonstrations over religious values in the country.
 
As you can see, love is celebrated in all different ways across the world. It’s fascinating to see how countries all interpret Valentine’s day in their own unique way. The holiday reveals how, above all, love is a universal language we all partake in. Whether you enjoy an evening with your special someone or a spend the day with a friend, Happy Valentine’s Day!

​1) Getting Around Italian Speaking Neighborhoods
You’re going to immerse yourself in the Italian experience by learning the language. How so? If you learn Italian, you will get to discover other Italian neighborhoods as if you were a local. There are smaller neighborhoods in areas of Brooklyn and Queens that are still considered to be iconically Italian. One neighborhood in particular in Brooklyn, Bensonhurst, is known as “Brooklyn’s Little Italy.” Not only are there still plenty of restaurants and bakeries that are authentically Italian, but so are the owners. By learning Italian, you’ll be able to connect and understand the older generations that still inhabit this neighborhood. Italians genuinely are impressed when New Yorkers such as yourself take it upon themselves to appreciate the language. You’ll pick up on common pastimes specifically ranging from espresso runs to watching the weekly soccer game. Their friendly nature will extend to being invited everywhere! Including the local cafe, church community, and coveted food markets. 

2) Appreciating Italian Opera Even More
Italian food is a big part of NYC culture. However, there are other aspects of Italian culture that is relevant here in New York. A big part of Italian culture is music, especially opera. If you learn Italian, you will get to experience Manhattan’s Metropolitan Opera in a whole new light. Italy is known for their iconic contribution to opera performances. By understanding the language, you will have a deeper appreciation and love for the storyline and music. Notable opera performances such as La Boheme and Madama Butterfly are even more appreciated by understanding the Italian lyricism.

3) Rediscovering Italian Art in a New Light
Not into opera? Learning Italian is a great opportunity to discover art. There is a reason why Italians are credited for their contributions to art history. You might believe that Italian art is only known for their Renaissance period. However, there are other Italian artists that are not as well-known who have contributed to modern art. By learning Italian you will get to familiarize yourself with modern artists such as Tina Modotti, Giorgio Morandi, and Piero Manzoni. Museums here in NYC such as the Center for Italian Modern Art, display drawings, photography, and sculptures of many Italian artists.
 
4) Conversing with Italian Tourists
Did you know New York is a popular vacation spot for Italians? Believe it or not, many Italians love the idea of visiting NYC (including my own relatives). If you learn Italian, you will have a chance to put your skills to the test with tourists who come over summer break. You might have to go to populated tourist spots, but you can be almost guaranteed to run into Italians stumbling through the big city. It will also be an opportunity to meet native Italians and try carrying a conversation. If you are looking for a summer job, Italians are the most likely to participate in city tours and destinations. Not only will it land you a job as a tour guide, but an occasion to form conversations with Italians. You never know if you could meet a new friend or potential visit to Italy! 
 
5) Discovering Authentic Italian Food
When we think of New York we automatically picture Manhattan. To be more specific, we also connect Italian Americans living in New York to Little Italy. The area still has plenty of Italian restaurants and cuisine, but there are other Italian neighborhoods that are often ignored. By learning Italian, you can frequent yourself with locals who know authentic and lesser-known Italian cuisine. There are plenty of hidden Italian bakeries and restaurants in areas outside of Manhattan. L & B, Garguilo’s, and Joe on Avenue U are just a few hidden gems located in Brooklyn alone. As you enter these restaurants, you will be able to read the menu and converse with the original owners. Some of these restaurants will include specific Italian delicacies from regions such as Sicilian, Neapolitan, and Milanese. Now that you learn the language, you will be able to identify only the most authentic Italian food there is.
 
Bonus Note: Eataly, a staple for Manhattan-bound Italians
On the surface, once you walk in the door, it will probably look like an ordinary Italian supermarket. On the front display, you would see generic Italian brands that you would find in most NYC Italian neighborhoods. But, once you walk down the aisle, you will find snacks that only an Italian native would know about. Snacks that they would have dig out from their grandmother’s cabinet. Or that yummy afternoon treat that you would indulge in after school. From gourmet tomato sauce to artisan brick-oven bread and authentic Christmas Panettone, you could find the best Italian imported products there … unless you travel to Italy yourself!