Mucho Gusto Spanish for ages 0-5, Session A

Each session is based around a collection of songs with overlapping themes and vocabulary.  Songs include traditional Spanish songs, translations of familiar songs, and songs composed specifically to teach Spanish.  There is ample repetition of material to encourage familiarity with the language, but we also adapt the songs to introduce new vocabulary as the session progresses.  While hearing the language, children make connections as they move their bodies, respond to visual aids such as puppets and pictures, and manipulate simple props.  Mucho Gusto participants vary in language background, from parents with little or no prior exposure to Spanish to those who are raising their children bilingually.

The class follows a consistent and predictable structure.  Sitting in a circle, we start each class with our greeting song, Buenos días a todos aquí, followed by finger plays.  Next we act out a song using individual felt cut-outs or small toys to facilitate comprehension.  Then we are ready to MOVE!  We dance and move about the room, acting out songs with our whole bodies, often using scarves, colored streamers, or instruments.  After movement, we return to our circle for a closing song using gestures, picture cards, or more felt manipulatives.  And finally, we end each class with our goodbye song, Adios, amigos.