Why this program exists
Since starting private tutoring 10 years ago, I have worked with over 250 children and have made wonderful connections with students and families.
Over this time, I have noticed that students make the same types of errors and struggle with the same problems when it comes to learning French.
And...I hear the same comments from families:
Since starting private tutoring 10 years ago, I have worked with over 250 children and have made wonderful connections with students and families.
Over this time, I have noticed that students make the same types of errors and struggle with the same problems when it comes to learning French.
And...I hear the same comments from families:
I want to help, but I never took French. I wish I did."
"I know French, but I don't know if what I'm doing is actually helping."
"I want to be more involved and set them up for success...but I don't know how!"
"I don't even know how to get started."
In French Immersion programs, parents are a vastly under-tapped resource - but not for lack of trying.
From parents who don't know French - you've spent so much time searching for French resources you can use, memorizing French vocabulary and doing French learning apps with the hope that some of it will apply to your child.
When you start by trying to figure out why the dictée words are pronounced the way they are...then, 2 hours have disappeared into the Youtube rabbit hole. and they've spent so much time trying to sort through "Learning French" info online in order to help their child.
On the other end of things - some parents feel comfortable in French (or maybe a *little* rusty, but with a base to fall back on).
You fall into a lot of the same problems - what resources can you use? How do I actually teach my child, instead of just telling them how to pronounce the words?
From parents who don't know French - you've spent so much time searching for French resources you can use, memorizing French vocabulary and doing French learning apps with the hope that some of it will apply to your child.
When you start by trying to figure out why the dictée words are pronounced the way they are...then, 2 hours have disappeared into the Youtube rabbit hole. and they've spent so much time trying to sort through "Learning French" info online in order to help their child.
On the other end of things - some parents feel comfortable in French (or maybe a *little* rusty, but with a base to fall back on).
You fall into a lot of the same problems - what resources can you use? How do I actually teach my child, instead of just telling them how to pronounce the words?
Parents want to help their kids be successful.
If you ever pull out sight words or French books, you're already putting in the work at home...
You're just not getting much back for that time investment.
Let's change that.
Here's what we know:
1. All students benefit from direct, clear instruction on the reading code.
2. When reading makes sense, kids get more interested in reading.
3. With the right resources, you can learn alongside AND support your child.
You don't have to teach the concepts yourself!
Video lessons will explain the SoundStories and what to do. Your role is a facilitator, fellow learner, and Player 2 in games.
Here's how you start each unit -
There are 2 levels of resources - that way, younger AND older students have words at the right level.
Pick the one for your child, then print.
You watch a parent video, which summarizes what we're working on, common mistakes to watch out for, and anything you should know going in.
After that...your job is just to learn alongside them.
1. All students benefit from direct, clear instruction on the reading code.
2. When reading makes sense, kids get more interested in reading.
3. With the right resources, you can learn alongside AND support your child.
You don't have to teach the concepts yourself!
Video lessons will explain the SoundStories and what to do. Your role is a facilitator, fellow learner, and Player 2 in games.
Here's how you start each unit -
There are 2 levels of resources - that way, younger AND older students have words at the right level.
Pick the one for your child, then print.
You watch a parent video, which summarizes what we're working on, common mistakes to watch out for, and anything you should know going in.
After that...your job is just to learn alongside them.
Here's the secret - I promise you, you know enough.
The hardest part is working with your child even though you don't know EVERYTHING about French.
You've started establishing your foundation, and you have resources that will support you.
If you're worried about making a mistake...all that means is that you care, and you're trying something new.
Not sure of a word? Check the voice clips.
I recommend having a computer/tablet open to the digital resources so you can click a voice clip without disrupting your flow.
And guess what? When you make a mistake, you're actually modelling to your child that it's okay if they're wrong, too.
(Did you know that seeing you make a mistake sometimes actually helps them?)
Worried your child will ask you something, and you don't know the answer?
You can say: "That's a great question! I'll email Mme Balston!"
And remember, you don't have to teach the SoundStories yourself - you just have to watch the video with them.
Think of your role in this as more of a facilitator - you're watching, you're playing, you're learning.
Practising with your child IS doing the work.
You're helping them put in the reps on the targeted concept to solidify your child's understanding.
That is meaningful, IMPORTANT work on their reading foundation.
I recommend having a computer/tablet open to the digital resources so you can click a voice clip without disrupting your flow.
And guess what? When you make a mistake, you're actually modelling to your child that it's okay if they're wrong, too.
(Did you know that seeing you make a mistake sometimes actually helps them?)
Worried your child will ask you something, and you don't know the answer?
You can say: "That's a great question! I'll email Mme Balston!"
And remember, you don't have to teach the SoundStories yourself - you just have to watch the video with them.
Think of your role in this as more of a facilitator - you're watching, you're playing, you're learning.
Practising with your child IS doing the work.
You're helping them put in the reps on the targeted concept to solidify your child's understanding.
That is meaningful, IMPORTANT work on their reading foundation.
THE DETAILS
- 6 week program
- 3 units: stupid x, superhero e, flexible e
- 4 mini-units: un, qu, ch, simple broken nasal
- Parent meeting every other Wednesday (recorded)
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All students benefit from direct, clear instruction on the reading code.
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F R E N C H E S S E N T I A L S
WHAT'S INCLUDED
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This program is right for you if:
- You're looking for more than just French exposure. You want impactful, targeted lessons that show results.
- You want your child to learn French grammar rules, but without the pressure of teaching it yourself!
- You have a busy schedule, but still want to prioritize your child's growth in literacy.
- You want to establish a daily or weekly literacy routine that goes DEEPER than sight words or mini-readers!
- You want to support your child with French reading - but you don't know where to start.
Within this program, there are 3 levels of French Support:
• French Essentials Program
• Program Plus +
• Enhanced Essentials
Here's a chart that gives more information about each level:
PROGRAM PLUS + might be for you if:
- You also want a diagnostic into your child's strengths and weaknesses in their reading foundation.
- You want to know exactly how your child is doing with reading, in detail.
- You want a personalized action plan so you know what to focus on after this course.
ENHANCED ESSENTIALS might be for you if:
- All the reasons listed in PROGRAM PLUS speak to you; AND
- You want your child to meet the teacher and get excited before the program even starts!
- You want extra accountability to make sure you make the most of this course
- You feel excited to have a support system available whenever you have a question
- You feel more comfortable or connected in a one-on-one setting.
The program starts on November 5.
FAQ
