As the months go by, these small learnings grow into meaningful shared moments. The preparation of special events such as the Christmas concert, the Grandparents performance, or the end-of-year show. We also dedicate special moments to celebrate the Day of Peace, Music Week (Saint Cecilia), and to remember Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat, the founder of our school, as well as the Virgin of Mater.

Furthermore, when our students reach the primary stage, they can enjoy extracurricular music lessons, where learning is focused on the instrument of their choice, such as piano, guitar, singing, and others.

At Sagrat Cor Sarrià, music is much more than rhythm and melody. It is understood as a space where children enjoy learning together, where they feel part of their class group, and where they share their achievements with their families. Through music we also nurture the values of our school: respect, kindness, love, responsibility, empathy, and solidarity.

In conclusion, in every rehearsal, every song, and every quiet listening moment, helps to internalize essential routines for this stage of childhood: learning to wait, to listen calmly, and to care for the positive atmosphere in the classroom. So, between songs and smiles, our students take their first musical steps while growing as thoughtful, joyful, and caring members of our community.

One of the greatest advantages of bilingualism is its positive impact on cognitive development. Children who learn more than one language tend to develop greater mental flexibility, enhanced problem-solving skills, and more effective multitasking abilities. Additionally, being bilingual fosters cultural awareness and empathy by exposing children to different ways of thinking and communicating, broadening their perspective and helping them appreciate diversity. It also enables them to adapt more easily to different social and linguistic contexts from an early age. Beyond these cognitive and social benefits, bilingualism can provide significant professional advantages, as speaking multiple languages is a highly sought-after skill in many careers.

Despite these benefits, learning multiple languages also comes with challenges. One common concern among parents is the possibility of language confusion, as bilingual children may initially mix words from both languages or take a little longer to say their first words. However, these are natural aspects of the learning process and usually resolve over time as their language skills develop. Another challenge is the variation in proficiency levels between languages—depending on exposure and practice, children often become more fluent in one language than the other. Mastering two languages takes time and effort, which can be challenging for both children and their families. However, with consistent support and ample exposure to all languages, children can gradually build confidence and proficiency in each one.

Supporting bilingual children starts with creating a language-rich environment where they can naturally develop their skills. Engaging daily interactions—whether it is through conversations, books, songs, or games—help reinforce learning in both languages in a more natural and enjoyable way. Additionally, establishing clear language-use patterns at home, such as one parent speaking one language while the other speaks the second, provides structure and consistency, making it easier for children to differentiate between languages. On the other hand, exposure to native speakers further enhances fluency and builds confidence, allowing children to use both languages more naturally in different social contexts. Most importantly, maintaining a positive and stress-free approach ensures that language learning remains an enjoyable experience, fostering long-term motivation and success.

Ultimately, raising a bilingual child is a wonderful gift that offers lifelong benefits. Although the journey may present obstacles, with the right support and consistent exposure, children can successfully develop skills in multiple languages and fully enjoy the advantages that bilingualism brings.

Through Erasmus+, schools are able to form partnerships with schools across Europe and participate in a wide range of collaborative activities. At our school we have been working with the Erasmus+ program for a few years now, including exchange of students in Cicles Formatius.

This year, we have teamed up with a school in Greece, 2^nd Kindergarten of Demenika, to exchange Christmas Cards. Our students of Infantil 5 have been working hard to create unique Christmas cards, which they will share with their Greek peers. This project is not only a fun way to celebrate Christmas, but it also fosters communication, creativity, and cultural exchange between our schools. Through this collaboration our students can learn valuable lessons about the diversity of. Christmas traditions all around the world.

We are thrilled to announce that we have already received the Christmas Cards from Greece, and we couldn’t be more excited!

1.Engaging and enjoyable learning experience.

Play is a natural and enjoyable activity for children. When learning English through play, children are more likely to stay engaged and motivated. Educational games, songs, and interactive activities make language learning fun and interactive, creating a positive learning environment where children are eager to participate and explore.

2.Language acquisition in context.

Through play, children learn English in meaningful contexts. They use language to communicate with peers, negotiate roles in pretend play scenarios, and follow instructions during games. This contextual learning helps children understand the practical application of English and reinforces vocabulary and grammar in real-life situations.

3.Development of social and communication skills.

Play encourages social interaction and collaboration, providing opportunities for children to practice English in social settings. Whether they are playing a game, engaging in dramatic play, or working on a project together, children learn to communicate, share ideas, and express themselves effectively in English. These interactions promote the development of social and communication skills vital for success in later life.

4.Building confidence and fluency.

When children learn English through play, they feel less pressure and more confident to experiment with the language. They are more willing to take risks, try out new words and phrases, and make mistakes without fear of judgment. This confidence-building aspect of play helps children develop fluency and proficiency in English at an early age, laying a solid foundation for future language learning.

5. Holistic development.

Play-based English learning promotes holistic development by integrating language skills with other areas of development, such as cognitive, physical, and emotional development. Whether it’s following instructions in a game, solving puzzles, or expressing feelings through role-play, children engage in activities that stimulate multiple aspects of their development simultaneously.

6.Preparation for future success.

Proficiency in English opens doors to countless opportunities in education, career, and personal growth. By starting early with play-based English learning, children gain a head start in acquiring this valuable skill. They are better equipped to excel academically, communicate effectively in diverse settings, and adapt to an increasingly globalized world.

In conclusion, we can affirm that play is a crucial methodology for learning English in Early Childhood education. We play throughout the day at different times and in different settings, sometimes it’s free or guided play, individual or collective. Moreover, there are several reference teachers who perform the function of verbal modelling during these moments. Repetition and habit make some linguistic structures easily memorized, leading to complete understanding. After internalizing them, they are used automatically. Not forgetting that the motivation inherent in play facilitates its acquisition.

So…you know…Let’s play in English!!

• Cognitive development: Research consistently shows that early exposure to multiple languages enhances cognitive abilities. Learning English at a young age stimulates brain development, improves problem-solving skills, and fosters a more flexible and creative mindset. The cognitive benefits gained during language acquisition contribute to overall academic success

• Enhanced communication skills: Language is a tool for communication, and starting English education early helps children develop strong communication skills. From basic verbal communication to advanced writing abilities, early exposure to English builds a solid linguistic foundation. This proficiency not only facilitates effective communication but also boosts confidence in social interactions.

• Cultural awareness: Learning a language involves understanding its culture. Early exposure to English provides children with insights into English-speaking cultures, fostering cultural awareness and sensitivity. This cultural understanding becomes a crucial asset in a world where diversity and cross-cultural collaboration are increasingly valued.

• Academic excellence: Numerous studies suggest a positive correlation between early language learning and academic achievement. Children exposed to English from an early age tend to perform better in subjects across the board. The cognitive benefits, improved memory, and heightened problem-solving skills acquired during language acquisition contribute to academic excellence.

• Global Opportunities: English is the global language of business, science, and diplomacy. By introducing English to children early on, parents provide them with a passport to a world of opportunities. Proficiency in English opens doors to international education, career advancements, and collaboration on a global scale. Early English proficiency lays a strong foundation for future success in an increasingly interconnected world.

The advantages of learning English from a young age are extensive and far-reaching. Beyond the practical benefits, early exposure to English enriches a child’s cognitive abilities, opens doors to global opportunities, and enhances their communication skills. Investing in English education for children is an investment in their future success and global citizenship. As parents and educators, recognizing the importance of starting early can pave the way for a brighter and more connected future for the younger generation.

For this reason, in the early childhood stage (Educació Infantil 0-6), we work on English throughout the day, with various and fun didactic proposals. In addition to learning English, we learn many things in English every day. Several workshops are conducted in this foreign language: “Arts and Crafts”, “Music”, “Atelier”, “Speaking time”, “Play in English”,”Workshop and Body Expression” and “English” (Cambridge Project). Also, many songs that help us with daily routines are in this language. We want Catalan, Spanish, and English to coexist daily in our school!

We always start our classes with the routine board: we talk about the weather and the seasons, we check if there is a birthday nearby or any celebration, etc. Then, we usually greet Greenman. He is our English puppet and helps us learn English in a fun and engaging way.

Greenman brings with him flashcards so that we can learn new vocabulary. Together with the new vocabulary, we learn through the different units and new grammar structures. To learn these new things, we usually play games; we do some TPR activities and even watch videos of Greenman’s adventures in the magic forest.

Here at the school, we consider English as a third language, we want our students to learn it from an early age, and in their day-to-day life. That is why English is not only use in the English class but we also use English as the vehicular language in other workshops: Movement and body expression, Arts & Crafts, Music and Speaking sessions.

Happy Halloween.

In our English sessions we are working about the meaning of this wonderful season. In spring everything is in “bloom”, the water that falls from the mountains forming the rivers, the trees covered by leaves, the green meadows full of flowers, the explosion of new life (butterflies, bees, ladybugs…). But the best of all is when after a rainy day, the sun appears in the sky accompanied by a wonderful rainbow.

There are so many vocabulary and spring expressions to learn!

 And we can get into this colourful world through exciting stories, songs and games.

P3

We are learning two great spring songs:”I can sing a rainbow” and “My Baby Bumble Bee”. In this picture we are learning the names of spring animals through a flashcard game of pairs.

P4

The song that we are learning is “Spring Is Here”.  In this picture you can see us making a spring landscape with all its elements.

P5

In this game we must know if our flashcard belongs to one of the four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. Besides, you have to say the reason that makes you believe that you are doing the right thing. Listening to and working on this song “Seasons Song” has helped us a lot to learn about the differences between the four seasons.

Both shows were exactly what we were waiting for. Actually we had a very good time.

As the company says, we can learn English through musical theatre, in a playful, entertaining and effective way. Besides, children can sing, laugh and above all participate spontaneously.

 All this is important, but without forgetting the quality of the content and the message of the work and showing positive values for our children.

These shows are 100% in English and are specifically created and adapted to the different stages, levels and interests of the students. Their actors and actresses are trained in musical theatre and are native or of a level equivalent to native.

The two shows were:

P4 SHOW: “PINOCCHIO”

This story is a modern, interactive and musical version of Pinocchio, where children will learn to recycle and the importance of helping others and working as a team. They will also realize that it is good to listen to their parents and that they have to work hard to get the things they want.

P5 SHOW: “PUFF- THE MAGIC DRAGON”

It is an endearing story between a Dragon, called Puff, and his friend Jack. They have a great time until the pirate Mary Read interrupts them. And then….

The story also deals with topics such as loneliness, friendship between very different beings, perseverance, the importance of taking care of each other and having physical well-being with an active life.

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