Thematic Free Range Learning

Mr. Schartow,

As a single mother, finding time for anything “extra” can be quite challenging. Finding the time to learn a new language, and teach my daughter at the same time, seemed near impossible. I will admit that when I first decided to use the SFS language program I thought it would not work for our busy life and had doubts about the effectiveness with a four year old. But after seven months, the English to Spanish program has become more than just an educational tool. It has become a source of bonding time for my daughter and me, as well as a great transition tool when we are changing tasks.

Our favorite time to pull out our Spanish (she has her own folder full of her worksheets, drawings, and book) is at the end of the day. While we have used the program at all times during the day, the evening has proved to be our most successful time to learn and bond. After a bath we curl up on the couch and go over our Spanish. We do not follow a specific schedule, nor do we stick to one area of the Spanish program. Some days we learn about different rooms in the house, other days we practice verbs, and sometimes we just like to listen to the cool audio sounds that accompany the audio pronunciations. Whatever we choose, it is fun and engaging for both of us.

Not to mention that it actually works! We are both retaining the language and my daughter, now five, blurts out the Spanish version of a word at random times! Another advantage for myself is that when my daughter is about to have a tantrum, if I say something in Spanish a smile will start to form and she can’t help but ask what I said (if she can’t remember the word) and a melt-down is avoided!

While we may not be fluent (yet), your program is a great introduction to learning a new language no matter what age the student may be. I am grateful to you and your program. It has given my daughter and me a way to learn together, to teach each other, bond, and escape from our hectic life in an enriching way.

While I hope this letter shows my appreciation for your program, I hope even more that it will give other families (of all sizes) the incentive to use SFS Languages to learn, laugh, and enjoy each other.

Best wishes,
Crystal Miller