Resources to Use With Your Child at Home
Kindergarten
Dance
Step Lively
Offers a variety of French dances used in the Kindergarten classroom, like Kinderpolka
Each exercise includes a short history, with tips for successful teaching of the dance. Many songs include musical notation, accompanying music and instructions in both English and French.
To learn more, visit the Step Lively product page at Marian Rose's Community Dance Project website.
Music
Autobus Jaune
Art Richard's shows have young audiences on their feet and having fun while learning French at the same time. Kindergarten are enjoying the CD "L'Autobus Jaune” (The Yellow Schoolbus). His French educational show, has been performed in New Brunswick schools and across North America. Check out his calendar of events for upcoming shows in your neighbourhood.
Let’s Sing and Dance in French
This music is described as “classic French nursery rhymes with a new groove!” Kindergarten students are enjoying these contemporary versions of classic French songs, including activities with Au Clair de la lune. To purchase this resource or download full lyrics, go to http://www.frenchsongsforkids.com/.
French Folk Songs Children Love
This is a collection of French folk songs and singing games traditional to French Canadians. The songs included in this book were chosen to teach students musical concepts while learning about cultures around the world. Your child may already know traditional French songs like Au Clair de la Lune (In the light of the Moon) and Scie le Bois (Saw the Wood)!
The book includes an accompanying disc with sing-along and instrumental versions of the songs.
Simple Children's French Books
Want to practice some of the stories your child is learning at school? The following are some titles from the Étincelle collection that are used in your child's introduction to French language and culture. These books have accompanying audio available on their website so that your child may also listen to the book read in French.
French Poetry Book with Audio CD
Comptines
Comptines, picotines, rigolotes, ratatouilles features poems from Québec , France and other French-speaking countries. Some of these poems, like Mes P’tites Mains, are used in the classroom to encourage your child to identify the meaning of the poem through context and illustrations.
Additional Resources
Students in Kindergarten are invited to create their own menu for a French café. This cookbook is provided in English for teachers to share with students.