FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Feb. 13, 2006

CONTACT: Lisa Lacher, (515) 271-3119, lisa.lacher@drake.edu

CHILDREN CAN EXPLORE FOREIGN LANGUAGES AT DRAKE THIS SUMMER

Exposing children to a foreign language at an early age improves grammar skills, creativity and enhances children’s mental growth, according to research from the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages. Drake University offers these benefits through its annual Foreign Language for the Young summer program, where children from 4 to 14 learn a new language and explore the culture and traditions of France, Germany, Spain and Mexico.

Games and special activities, such as a "Food and Fun Fair," help make the learning environment exciting and challenging, said Rosemarie Van Dyck, founder of the program.
The program begins June 8 and continues through June 30. The classes are designed to accommodate both beginning and advanced students of foreign languages. Students will be grouped by ability as well as by age.

Classes will meet Monday through Friday in Meredith Hall, just east of Olmsted Center at 29th Street and University Avenue. The German and French classes will meet from 9 to 10 a.m. while the Spanish classes will meet from 10 to 11 a.m.

Early registration is encouraged due to limited enrollment. The registration fee is $130 for a student taking one language. The total cost for a student taking two languages is $200. For registration or more information, call Larry Pace at (515) 964-1237 or Drake University at (515) 271-1927.

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