Some tasters of what to expect in and around Madrid in 2015.
I have often wondered what the beginning of a New Year means to our children when most of them measure their “years” from September to June rather than from January to December. Our kids have already completed a term at school during which routines were set for a healthy school/life balance (routines that have been temporarily broken over the Christmas holidays!) and the New Year begins with a return to normality. Nevertheless, as parents, we can take inspiration from the change of year to seek new challenges or to find more family time. If increasing English at home is among your list of New Year’s resolutions, here are some tasters of what to expect this coming year in and around Madrid.
Many of you will know that English Escape recently changed location and is growing from strength to strength in their new spectacular site on Calle Alcalá (opposite Metro Principe de Vergara). Owner Jennifer Doran is excited to announce that 2015 will see the centre offering operas and fine art classes in English for children. More details from: info@serenataescapes.com
Over in Sinews they started the year with a push on Facebook which helped promote their services and events. For parents who have questions about bringing up children bilingually, I thoroughly recommend the one-day workshop offered by Catty Smitton and Mariana Lombardo on Saturday 21st February. These friendly, enthusiastic and experienced therapists have provided insight and guidance for my own family and many others in a similar situation. www.sinews.es
Our friends at GNP Idiomas have opted for a brand-new website for 2015 (to be launched over the next few weeks) which will include a blog providing weekly recommendations for parents of young learners as well as a whole host of resources such as grammar bites and help with frequent errors, all with the aim of supporting language learning outside of the classroom. Furthermore they are offering one-off workshops for primary schools which include a song, mini gymkhana and cupcake decorating called “Baking Art”, aimed at children aged 3-7.
More information: info@gnpidiomas.com
Later on this year sees the first Madrid International Children’s Film Festival which will take place in La Cineteca (Matadero) from 12th to 14th of June. It promises to provide educative and thought provoking visual content for children aged 3-14. There will be screenings, workshops, competitions and talks. In this day and age it is vital that we seek opportunities to discern the worthwhile content from the electronic fodder.
Details: http://youtu.be/rRclY7t0BDo
On a personal level, this year sees me starting a post-graduate degree in Digital Marketing & e-commerce so that Little Fingers First can reach its full potential. Part of this plan includes reviewing and promoting apps to help bilingual children learn to read and write in English.
Keep an eye on my Facebook page: https://es-es.facebook.com/pages/Little-Fingers-First/180378368645740
Last of all, a special mention to our own page www.kidsinmadrid.com which is currently being revamped. The new version will be launched in springtime with more content, more connectivity and more innovation guaranteed. Now is your time to let us know what you are looking for on our site, where we get things right and where we can improve. All feedback is very welcome. Let your voice be heard! This site is as much yours as it is ours.
