Ari loves his class at Sponge—it is one of the highlights of his week. In fact, during spring break Ari asked about class every day and counted the days until we could go back! And his parents are very impressed too. With the well-planned curriculum and well-organized lessons, a very caring and positive teacher, and great songs and vocabulary sheets for the whole family to share, it is a beautiful program that we feel proud to be a part of.
–Alex, Freya (& Ari)
My son Mark really enjoys going to Mandarin class and so do I. It's rare to find a toddler class that's intellectually stimulating for both the parent and the child. I've always enjoyed learning about other cultures and their languages. Sponge gives me an opportunity to learn something new and share my passion for foreign cultures with Mark.
–Angela (& Mark)
Our daughter was 12 weeks old when we started Spanish at Sponge, she was around 8 months when she shocked us by saying 'hola' and now, at almost two years old, she can tell you where her 'cabeza,' 'nariz' and 'pies' are. The teachers at Sponge are extremely engaging, inventive and encouraging. Our daughter amazes us everyday with her Spanish and eagerness to try new words.
-Katie, Ben (& Samantha)
We love Sponge! I enjoy attending Mandarin with my grandson. As a former school principal, I find that the teacher is excellent in presenting the lessons so they meet the developmental needs of squirming young children. The supporting material is very good in helping us learn the new vocabulary. I make flash cards from each week's lesson handout. I feel that my grandson is very lucky to be at Sponge.
–Katherine (& Ben)
Sponge is like a "one-stop-shop" when it comes to child education, stimulation and interaction. You get all the fun elements that you would get at a regular music or movement class, PLUS the benefit of exposing you, the parent, and your child to a foreign language! Although my daughter is only 6 months old, I can already tell she is learning; it's incredible! At first I was a little leery about signing up such a young baby, but I'm so happy I did! Some of her "firsts" have been at Sponge, like sitting in a chair, interacting with other kids and having story time...all while learning Mandarin! I couldn't choose a better environment. We are so grateful we live in a city that has a school as hip and as forward-thinking as Sponge!
–Vaite (& Ali)
Amy is learning so much in her class. There are some words she prefers to say in Japanese rather than English! She looks forward to coming to class every week. Amy has become a lot more social over the year; she used to hang back and not participate much, but now she sings along with the songs and answers when the teacher asks the class questions. We are quite proud of her.
–Trina, Greg (& Amy)
I can't tell you enough how wonderful Sponge has been for Tyler. It's been a great experience for him to not only get accustomed to other children his age but also learn a new language. He can say and understand several French words! It's been great!
–Allison (& Tyler)
Our Mandarin teacher is enthusiastic, persistent, caring and patient with the children. It's no easy task to keep six to eight children engaged for an hour! I'm continually impressed with her creative activities and use of props.
–Renee (& Aaron)
There is no better place than Sponge to have the language learning experience with your child. We love the dynamic classes and the bond that is created with the teacher and other children. I was recently impressed when my 16-month-old daughter said a phrase in Chinese I didn't understandÑwe had to call a friend of ours to translate!
–Lauren (& Avery)
My daughter loves to go to Spanish. She often asks to go when she wakes up in the morning! She also sings the songs over and over—in the car, in the stroller, to her stuffed animals, and in the crib.
–Laura (& Lael)
Our Mandarin teacher is so good at encouraging my daughter to speak with her in a very natural and comfortable way. She is inclusive without putting pressure on them. It's just the right amount of fun, learning and kindness. Her class is the highlight of our week. My daughter gets to play, sing and dance while learning in a caring environment.
–Priscilla (& Lillian)
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