On the Coast – Families Issue 103 I December 19/January 20 | Page 14

LC F F U N L A N G UAG E S Shoes but no stockings for Le Père Noël C hildren during their weekly French sessions were amazed to find out that if they lived in France, polishing their shoes would be an essential part of the preparations for Christmas. Celebrating the end of term with a Christmas party, they discovered that French children traditionally leave out their shoes for Le Père Noël, instead of hanging up a stocking. Club leader Nathalie Roy said “Children can take it for granted that festivals are celebrated in ‘our’ way in other countries, and they are very interested to see that things are sometimes done differently in France. The same is true for other traditions, such as when a child loses a tooth: in France they receive a toy from La Petite Souris (the little mouse), instead of a coin from the Tooth Fairy.” With the emphasis on songs, games, role-play and other fun activities, the children learn practical, everyday French, Spanish or Mandarin easily and without inhibitions. Fun Language Clubs Central Coast and Northern Beaches are growing fast across many preschools, childcare centres and primary schools teaching French, Spanish Mandarin and German to children aged 2-12 years old. French class at Erina Heights PS. from top left : Adelaide, Maddie, Henry, Mathilde Saskia, Ruby and Neve Activities may include: Drama, cooking, art, craft, songs, games – all based on the Target language and culture. More information on clubs in your area is available from www.lcfclubs.com.au. You can also phone your local manager Nathalie Roy, on 0430 286 590 or email [email protected] The Fun way to become bilingual!  French  Spanish  Mandarin  German for 2-12 year olds have your party in our PLAYGYM or our entertainers can come to you! SHOP: Licensed Partyware, DIY Helium Kits, Costume & Party Hire Jumping castles and ball pits 310 Mann Street, Gosford Ph: 4322 4418 14 www.JJcc.com.au O N T H E C OA S T – FAM ILIES • fun before & after-school programs • lots of fun activities, drama, music & games • experienced and enthusiastic teachers • supported by fantastic fun activities online at Babelzone – visit our website for a FREE TRIAL Contact us to start a language program at your kid’s childcare, or a before or after school class at your child’s primary school. 0430 286 590 [email protected] www.lcfclubs.com.au Article written by Nathalie Roy