Albuquerque: Input from Homeschoolers on Language Learning-Ages 2-8; First 8 responders get free CD

Hi Tabitha,

I would really appreciate it if you had 6 to 8 families (preferably in the ABQ area) that could answer the questions below related to learning Spanish. I will take the first 8 that respond. For families with kids between 2-8 years old that will answer the questions below, and then let me talk with them on the phone about their answers, I will send them our Level 1 Spanish Champs music CD and DVD that we sell for $45. I am working to create a specific "homeschool" version of our Spanish Champs program that will work not only with those that are really motivated to learn a language, but also those that want to learn, but aren't as passionate about it. The homeschoolers that have been in our programs have been very "gung ho", and I am not sure how well they represent the average (if there is such a thing!) homeschool family.

What I am trying to balance in our program design are the trade-offs between the most effective plan for learning a language vs. what families are actually willing to do in terms of time and $$ to learn a language. I think part of this is educating parents on the basic elements of an effective learning strategy based on what their goals are.

What is your opinion towards the benefits of learning a second language (Spanish in particular)?
Compared to reading and math, how important is learning Spanish?
At what age do you plan on starting and why?
What do you think is the ideal age to start learning a language?
Do you have any background in Spanish?
What was your experience when you learned Spanish?
How do you want to improve this experience for your child(ren)?
Do you have a plan/curriculum you are planning on using?
What have you tried with your children, and how did it work?
What are your goals for learning a second language (from basic communication to completely bilingual and biliterate)?
How much time would you (your children) be willing devote to learning a language, and how many days per week?
Would you like to learn Spanish along with your children, or would you prefer for them to do it alone?
Do you think you and other homeschoolers would attend a 1 to 2 hour seminar on language learning strategies and resources?
Would you and other homeschoolers be interested in forming groups or clubs that would foster learning Spanish?
Would you go to quarterly celebrations/parties that had skills-based contests and games for children learning Spanish?
Would you prefer a program laid out for an individual family that is self paced, or tied to certain milestones by date with other families that are learning?
What are the most important issues for you and your family when it comes to learning strategies and resources - such as cost, flexibility, personal recommendation, or reputation?
What is your attitude towards using multimedia resources as part of a language program, including: music CDs, video DVDs, or computer software?

They can read about our program and see/hear some of the resources at:
http://www.progressivelanguage.com/information.php?info_id=1

Please contact me with any questions.

Best Regards,
Tim Keller
Director
Spanish Champs
505 235 0882
tim@progressivelanguage.com