Is it better for my child to start a French Immersion education?

French Immersion Schools in Canada are a real asset if you want your child to become fluent in French, since they will be exposed to the language every day.

Being very popular, spaces in these schools fill up rapidly.

However, this is a choice that must be made with the child’s overall enrichment in mind.

Even though children are often better at learning new languages than adults, not all of them will flourish, or be fulfilled by this kind of education.
Typically, children who speak well, interact easily with people, and don’t have learning disabilities, will have the best chance to benefit from this system. However, children who tend to participate less will take longer to acquire the language and skills, and may get distracted, agitated and even discouraged.
In that case, you might have to provide them with some temporary support, such as French tutoring.

My child has been in immersion for two or three years and has difficulties.  Should he continue?

Changing schools is often traumatic, especially when it is caused by learning difficulties and unflattering report cards. That is why it is very important to assess the child’s results, behavior and self-esteem, and to take into account the teachers’ feedback, and the parents’ feelings. Once this information is processed, the wellbeing of the child, his future,and education must come first.

If learning disabilities are suspected or diagnosed, keep in mind that only the regular school system provides organized help on a regular basis. If the difficulties are more technical, the support of a French tutor can help to normalize the situation.

My child is in grade 3 and can choose to participate in the gifted program, what should I do?

Congratulations! This is a nice dilemma.

When in immersion, the transition between Grade 3 and Grade 4 represents a special step because in Grade 4, English is introduced into the program.
It is also time to start to consider the future. If your child is doing very well in immersion, you have the option to continue in high school and be assured that he will be challenged and given the opportunity to excel in university. On the other hand, if your child has average results in French and you feel that verbal skills are not his strength, then the gifted program may present a great opportunity to express his talents!

My child is in grade 8, what are his options?

Your child can continue in high school in an extended French program where he will have the option to select some of his credits in French. This is a highly rewarding choice as your child will develop his bilingual ability. But first, take the time to ascertain whether your child is motivated to do so and if his level in French is encouraging. Have a close look at his report card and don’t hesitate to have a meeting with his teachers at school.

If you are not convinced, then your child can revert to the core program and take French as one of his credits. Either way, he will maintain fluency in oral French.