Why Arabic School?
Children who are bilingual show an incredible ability to understand the connection between words and meaning. This is because their minds are flexible and attuned to nuance. This is especially true for young people learning English and Arabic. They must learn an entirely new alphabet, and develop skills in reading in two different directions! Many studies prove that children who learn two languages grow into confident adults, secure in their identities and well prepared to take on new challenges and opportunities.
NEAAO operates the only Children's Arabic School in Maine, with classes held each Saturday for four hours, throughout the regular school year. Currently, 86 students in grades K-11 attend one of eight classes taught by nine teachers, including NEAAO's founder and director Zoe Sahloul. Not all of the students are Arab Americans or come from Arabic-speaking homes. Some parents see this as a great opportunity for their children to gain a wider perspective while learning a second language.
"We teach reading, writing and speaking, but we also expose children to the rich Arab culture through music, art, calligraphy and food. They learn about the history and importance of Arabic, which is the sixth most widely spoken language in the world," says Ms. Sahloul.
One young student puts it this way: "My grandma doesn't speak English and I want to be able to tell her I love her." Perhaps that's the best reason of all!
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