Children have an immense ability and proclivity to pick up languages during their early years, and because of this, many parents opt to have their children learn a second language. Learning a second language is beneficial because it can boost problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and listening skills. When they get older, those who know a second or even a third language are set up for higher success in the job market since they can communicate with a wider variety of people, and they often have improved memory skills as well.

Knowing the options to help your child learn a second language is one of the first steps to selecting a proper course that appeals to their unique learning needs. Here is our list of the top language classes to try in and around Lincoln Park.

Alliance Française de Chicago

classroom by Lindy Buckley is licensed with CC BY 2.0

Attending classes at Alliance Française de Chicago is one of the premier places to receive French language instruction in the Chicago area. After 125 years of serving the community and supporting those who are enthusiastic about learning the French language and culture through quality instructional practices, Alliance Française of Chicago has a proven reputation for excellence in language instruction. Though the school offers classes for all ages, children can attend Chez Kids Academy. This youth education center offers French classes taught in French and conducted by dedicated and experienced instructional staff.

The French courses are an immersive experience that creates a broader worldview, introduces children to different cultures, and helps instill a cultural appreciation and an interest in travel. Classes begin for children as young as 1 year old. The Moms, Pops, and Tots class is ideal for children ages 1 to 2 and lets parents learn alongside children. Each session is only half an hour long and uses innovative practices to help awaken the senses of young learners in a dynamic learning environment.

Classes are separated by age, ending in the course ideal for 13- to 16-year-old children where students learn the details and grammatical structures of French. Classes are typically small, with no more than 10 students, and enhance the individual learner’s experience by allowing for individualized attention. You can enroll your child year-round, with classes typically lasting a couple of months.

• Location: 810 N. Dearborn St., Chicago.
• Hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. Closed on Sunday.
• Contact: 312-337-1070.

Outschool

If you’re interested in online classes that fit your schedule a bit better or your family’s need to commute as little as possible, consider Outschool. This online learning academy teaches language classes for children with semester-long courses, weekly practice, and personalized one-on-one tutoring options available.

Some of the available options include Spanish, French, Chinese, Russian, and English. Classes are designed for all levels of learners, and specialized instructors use innovative practices to reach young kids. Fun topics include French Beginners With My Puppet, which is designed for learners from ages 3 to 5. Classes begin at only $8 per session and are about 25 minutes long. Another fun option for children ages 3 to 6 is Mandarin Chinese Immersion Circle Time for Beginners. Individual classes begin at $15 and are 30 minutes each.

Older learners from ages 7 to 12 might enjoy the American Sign Language (ASL) and the Deaf Community course, which is a four-week class that meets once a week for 55 minutes. Attendees learn about the language, vocabulary, deaf culture, and deaf history. Each class begins at $18.

• Location: Online.
• Hours: Vary by course, so be sure to check before you register.
• Contact: Via the website.

The Spanish Studio Language Center

The Spanish Studio Language Center promises that all students begin speaking the language they are learning on the first day. Using their specially formulated and carefully developed training program from different teaching methods to develop a unique best practice approach, the language learning center provides classes for Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, and French. The studio supports a comfortable and inclusive environment where all levels of learners can feel free to learn at their own pace.

There are three levels of Portuguese classes, beginning through advanced, as well as one specifically for travelers to prepare you and your child for a summer trip. Class sizes are kept small for an intimate experience, and instructors weave in culturally significant information to help contextualize learning and enhance cultural understanding.

The studio offers group classes, semi-private lessons, and private lessons. While rates vary, a standard price for an eight-week course begins at $285, with a $100 deposit fee due upon enrollment. All materials are included with the course fee, and the $185 balance is due on the first day of class. Private lessons begin at only $42 an hour, and discounts are available depending on the language chosen.

• Location: 772 W. Diversey Parkway., Suite 101, Chicago.
• Hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday. Closed on Sunday.
• Contact: 773-348-2216.

So there you have it. Crème de la Crème of Lincoln Park has enjoyed sharing with you some great resources in the Chicago area to help your child learn a second language. No matter their skill level or learning style, you’ll find an approach and method that fits the needs of your little one best. What do you think of our list? Did we mention a place or program that you think will support your child’s learning needs?

While you decide on language classes for your child, consider Crème de la Crème of Lincoln Park for your child care needs. We offer many perks and amenities, including language instruction for Mandarin and Spanish, that will help give your child a solid educational foundation and establish a love for learning and socialization. Call our friendly staff at 773-309-4953 for a tour of our state-of-the-art facilities and to learn why Crème de la Crème of Lincoln Park is the right choice for your child and family.