“Yo quiero la pelota azul!” “Yo quiero una flor rosa, por favor!” “Me gusta mucho el helado!” These are the kinds of phrases that you might hear in the hallway when passing a Spanish Language in Play (SLiP) class offered by Portland Early Learning Project (PELP). These one-of-a-kind classes are filled with enthusiastic students who participate in interactive, dynamic programs chock full of movement, songs, and games in a supportive, Spanish-speaking environment. The theme-based SLiP curriculum developed by Kara De Giovanni is taught in a progressive fashion of scaffolding information, or building knowledge upon an ever-strengthening foundation. Students feel supported in their learning and can feel confident in asking questions. What’s more, these lessons are tailored to cater toward a variety of levels, leaving no child left behind!
PELP offers an array of programs throughout Portland, including free Spanish Story & Play Times; Spanish summer camps (4-9 yrs), family Spanish classes (18 mo-5 yrs), Spanish classes for preschool, K-3rd, and 3rd-5th, and Baby Sign Language classes. The camps are held at Bethany Lutheran Church, while many of the classes are taught in neighboring schools. All of PELP’s programs are taught by an elite team of bright, talented, and engaging teachers who have all undergone a vigorous screening and training process to ensure the best experience for all students.
PELP’s overall mission is to empower children, families, and educators to use language–in all forms–to develop relationships that enrich their personal lives and inspire positive change in the world. SLiP is a fantastic program that fosters wonder and intrigue in students about learning not only a beautiful and helpful language, but also opens their eyes to the wonder of different cultures. For more information, check out their website: portlandearlylearning.com.