In early childhood, second language education has been gaining importance not only worldwide but also in our country in recent years. Starting second language education as early as possible, even in nurseries and preschools, is recommended.
During childhood, the language acquisition window in the brain is more active. Children acquire their second language naturally, similar to their native language, while developing their native language skills, and it is easier for them to acquire a second language than it is for adults. Therefore, early childhood is considered a critical period for acquiring two or more languages from a developmental psychology perspective. Children who have the opportunity to learn a second language at an early age are argued to be able to learn the second language as comfortably as their native language.
In line with this, our school's teachers speak only English. This allows children to start understanding and speaking English without even realizing it. Our English teachers, who have Montessori education certificates, use Montessori materials that support children's cognitive, socio-emotional, language, and physical development in English. Apart from working with Montessori materials, in our classrooms, we regularly engage in activities such as reading books, playing games, having discussions on specific topics, food projects, experiments, and parties during circle times. Our English teachers are present in the classroom not only for lessons but also to meet all the needs of the children.