 TLC for Kids offers a Japanese class and a Japanese as a second language class (JSL). The Japanese class is designed for children who have basic Japanese language skills, while the JSL class is designed for children who do not know any Japanese but are willing to learn the Japanese language. We teach children from 18 months to 8 years old using a unique method that involves entertaining music and flashcards. TLC teachers are native/fluent in the Japanese language. They are selected for their skill and for their enthusiasm with children. Each teacher is trained to use the TLC method.
Benefits of Learning a Foreign Language
Research shows that children who learn a second language tend to demonstrate enhanced listening and memory skills. Multilingual children have the ability to acquire the rules of many new languages as well. Children who are able to speak different languages also develop cross cultural skills, awareness, and tend to be more open to diversity. In today’s world, where distances have been made smaller with such tools as the Internet, multilingual speakers have a better chance at finding a successful career.
CURRICULUM
■Reading & Writing
 Our Japanese classes put an emphasis on developing reading skills. By using the TLC for Kid’s Japanese reading curriculum, children will learn to read hiragana, katakana, and kanji effectively and efficiently. The secret of TLC’s successful reading program is within the music. We have created fun and exciting songs, which successfully teach children how to read and speak the Japanese language.
■Conversation
 Our Japanese classes are taught in Japanese ONLY. Rich exposure to conversational Japanese is critical to develop children’s verbal skills. Children will have the opportunity to communicate with Japanese speaking teachers in many ways. We also teach the basic rules of conversation and grammar.
■Vocabulary
 Building a rich vocabulary is the key to success when learning a second language. In each class we use hundreds of flashcards with words and illustrations. Our vocabulary program includes basic concepts such as numbers, days, months, colors, shapes, directions, time, money, and wealth of commonly used Japanese sayings.
■Culture
 The Japanese class also teaches Japanese culture, history, and geography. We think it’s very important to teach and spread the understanding of Japanese culture. Not only should children know and understand a language, but they should know about the origins of that language as well.
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