Prince Edward Island Branch (CPF PEI)
But I Don't Speak French... How can I help my child at home?
Consider this research finding -
Students whose parents have positive attitudes to learning French tend to do better in French. They also develop a more positive attitude toward French and Francophone's. You can play an active role in your child's success in French Immersion; even if you don't speak French....support and encouragement are the biggest factors. Your encouragement and belief in the value of a second language will strengthen your child's learning experience. Ask the teacher and/or your CPF chapter to suggest some out-of-school French language activities that will be both fun for the family and add to the school program.
What can I do to help my child with homework?
Many parents either have a limited background in French or do not speak the language at all. If this is the case, please don't feel alarmed. The most important factor is your encouragement and the positive support you are able to give your child. You should make homework a top priority at home; assignments should take no more than 30 minutes to complete each night at the elementary level, not including daily reading of 15 minutes each night. You should provide necessary supplies and a quiet homework environment, set aside a time everyday when homework should be done. Provide praise and support and contact your French Immersion teacher if you notice a problem. You and your child's teacher must work together as a team that is committed to your child's progress. The secret to building and maintaining that relationship is through communication. Remember if a child is having problems in the French Program they would likely be having the same problems in the English Program. Find out what these problems are and address them immediately!
French Immersion parents can help with homework, too. The difference in language can be daunting, but the purpose is still the same...the attitude of the child to homework is influenced by the parents. If homework is seen as an arduous task, a punishment for not finishing in class, it will become a negative experience. You, as parents, should encourage a positive attitude towards homework; if you are positive they will more than likely follow your lead and enjoy the experience of a second language, even at difficult times.
