French with Elisabeth L.

I speak three languages fluently. I strongly believe that to learn or maintain a language other than one's own is a real treasure and a very valuable asset. To learn a foreign language with a native speaker is to add another depth to the experience: you not only learn to understand what is said, but also to understand the meaning of what is said. l am from the French speaking part of Belgium. I spent my childhood and early adulthood in Brussels. Afterwards, I spent long periods in various other countries including The Netherlands, Ecuador and Scotland. I settled in California 15 years ago. During my education, and for most of my life, I studied and spoke different languages. My teachers were ALWAYS native speakers (with them, I learned the importance of syntax, grammar, etc. if you want to teach a foreign language effectively). I often lived "on site" where the language was spoken. This allowed me additionally to emerge in and to learn about different cultures. I have taught French to adults. I also have taught and worked with children in various settings (one of my masters is in Psycho-Pedagogy focusing on children). What I have learned from my experience with BOTH adults and children is that dedication is, definitely, important when you learn a foreign language but that enthusiasm is the main thing!!!!