About Discovery Language Programs

Discovery Language Programs is a non-profit educational organization. Since 1992 we have brought enrichment and in-curriculum foreign language classes to elementary and middle school students across the Chicago area.

1992Founded
Non-profitOrganization
100+Teachers

A teacher leading a lively elementary classroom

Who we are

We were formed by an international group of highly experienced educators. Our goal: give students and schools the best enrichment programs in foreign language education, in a cost-effective manner.

The curriculum was carefully developed by educational specialists in foreign language instruction, and is designed for English-speaking children who want to learn Spanish, French, German, Italian, Polish and now also Mandarin Chinese. Our programs let children experience other cultures and become aware of multicultural issues.

Before & after school

Enrichment classes that are parent-paid, with no cost to the school or district.

In-curriculum

Classes during regular school hours, usually paid for by the school.

We provide all the materials students and teachers need, and they can also be purchased from our bookstore.

A natural, oral approach

A natural, oral approach with gradual immersion.

Speaking first

Students build oral language skills from the first class, with the teacher using the target language.

Games, songs & hands-on

Lessons use games, songs, movement and hands-on activities to keep the language alive.

Reading when ready

Reading and writing skills are introduced when age-appropriate. Grammar is taught deductively, in a natural way.

Culture first-hand

Every unit includes cultural notes, and the session ends with a field trip to an ethnic restaurant.

Carefully selected teachers

Over a hundred teachers on staff, carefully selected.

Languages: Fluent in English and the language they teach
Background: Native speakers, people who have lived extensively abroad, or graduates in the language
Certification: Over half are certified; the rest need teaching experience
Training: Everyone is trained in the Discovery Language Programs method
Safety: Teachers arrive 10 minutes early and never leave a child unattended

Evaluated regularly by a supervisor on

Lesson preparation
Games & movement
Use of the target language
Students' knowledge
Pronunciation
Participation
Discipline
Enthusiasm

Communication with parents

Day one You get your child's teacher's phone number and email, and can call with any question.
Every week An email about what happened in class, the homework and what to bring.
Any time You can observe your child's class. There are usually two open houses.
Midway A parent survey asks for your opinion and suggestions.
Progress Reports are sent home midway and at the end of the program.
Insurance We carry liability insurance; a certificate is available on request.

Why start a language early

Children aren't confused by a second language. Their brains build separate pathways for each one, and with frequent, repeated exposure they can speak with familiarity and no accent.

That learning window starts to close around age six, and by twelve a child may no longer be able to speak a new language without an accent. Children who learn more than one language also tend to adjust to new situations more easily and show greater mental flexibility.

"Knowing other languages and understanding other cultures is a 21st Century skill set for American students as they prepare to live and work in a global society."

Martha G. Abbott, Director of Education, ACTFL, interviewed by Duke TIP