Whistlefritz: a total immersion language program that kids will enjoy-Giveaway!

Prior to being a dad I taught ESL for two years.  I’m a big proponent for children learning a second language ASAP.  I also know that the best way to learn is total immersion.  The problem with children learning a second language is that they start too late and it isn’t total immersion in some educational instances.  Whistlefritz is a learning language program for children.  Their Spanish program has been out for a while and we got the chance to review some of their newly released French program.

For now their French for Kids releases include a DVD, Dedans et Dehors (Inside and Out) and an audio CD, Allons Danser!, (Let’s Dance).  These are total immersion programs, no English in the educational content at all-and that is why it’s so great at teaching kids a second language.

Our oldest is 4 years old and I speak all of the Spanish I know in front of him.  “I don’t want to play I Spy in Spanish-in English!” is a frequent rallying cry from the back seat. It’s far from total immersion, but it’s a start that will help build his Spanish vocabulary and pronunciation as he continues to hear more.

Now I can do the same in French.  Before receiving the Whistlefritz releases I spoke more French than Spanish and know some Japanese too.  Because I’m exposed to more Spanish that was easiest for me.  However, since listening to Allons Danser by Whistlefritz my French is back and I’m able to sing along with the songs.

But I don’t speak any bit of a second language you say to yourself.

In the liner notes of the CD are basic vocabulary in French and English.  Within a couple listens you’ll be able to break down the words in the songs, anticipate them in the songs and then be able to use them around the house.  Really.

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The French for Kids DVD:  Dedans et Dehors is just as effective in teaching.  There are no English subtitles when they’re teaching vocabulary.  If the host is teaching you ‘pomme’ then they’ll show you an apple and “Pomme”, “une pomme”.    The host will then ask you , “tu’ame une pomme?  The children on the video say “Oui!  J’aime des pommes!”  My spoken French is passable, my written French needs work, but you get the idea.

Dedans et Dehors is 35 minutes of a French host looking for a cartoon mouse, teaching directions and basic French conversation.  It’s broken up with video snipets of the songs from the CD with children eating, playing or doing whatever that might reinforce the lessons they’re teaching.

From an educational point of view both French for Kids: Dedans et Dehors and Allons Danser are exceptional.  Adult music purists will point out that the music in Allons Danser is kind of sing songy and features very similar song structure.  However, it’s important to remember that this is intended for children.  More importantly, they, the children enjoy listening to it.  Our oldest even brought his xylophone into the car so that can play along with the song.