9 Reflections I’ve Had as a French Teacher

What have I learned from teaching French to children?

Teaching a foreign language to children is much more than teaching words or grammar. It’s about guiding them through a process of discovery, confidence, and emotion.
Every day in class or during Kidioma workshops teaches me something new — about my students, about how children learn, and about myself.

Over time, I’ve gathered small reflections — those thoughts that come up between a smile, a question, or a moment of doubt — that help me understand how children truly learn and how we, as teachers, can support them with kindness and authenticity.

Today I want to share 9 reflections I’ve had as a French teacher, inspired by my daily experience teaching through play, oral expression, and the Montessori approach.

1. Adapting to the needs and emotions of children… and our own

There are days when I’m tired or less inspired — and that’s okay. Accepting those moments can actually become a strength. Children feel our energy, and we’re role models for them. That’s why it’s important to show our emotions sincerely, to teach them that feelings come and go… and that sometimes, they can turn into something beautiful.

2. It’s better to offer an activity that’s a little ambitious than to stay in the comfort zone

Children have surprised me so many times with what they’re capable of. Believing in them and offering challenges that fit their age and abilities builds motivation, curiosity, and self-confidence.

3. Learning is not linear

Some children take more time to acquire certain skills, while others learn quickly — until suddenly, something clicks. And that’s the beauty of learning. There’s nothing more magical than hearing a child use a word they learned weeks ago.

4. Pronunciation is the key

Working on French sounds from an early age helps children speak clearly and confidently.
With younger kids, I love practicing complex sounds through songs or rhythmic games. With older ones, I teach them how to read French sounds so they understand how pronunciation works.
Good pronunciation builds the foundation for clear and confident communication.

5. Repeat, review, and reuse vocabulary

That’s how learning truly sticks. Repetition doesn’t mean boredom — it means reintroducing vocabulary in fun, creative ways: through songs, games, and active learning activities.

6. Learning through all the senses

Touching, moving, listening, manipulating — the more senses we engage, the stronger the learning becomes.
I see it every day in my classes, and it still amazes me how effective it is: using multiple senses in one activity greatly increases children’s ability to remember and understand.

7. Humor and positive words are essential

Humor, kind words, and encouragement help maintain focus and motivation. A happy child is a child who wants to learn — and who remembers better.
And honestly, it’s the same for us adults: we learn faster when we enjoy the process.

8. Truly trusting children

Listening to them and involving them in some decisions gives them an active role in their own learning.
And we should start early. Sometimes they want to read two or three stories; other times they need to move or play. I adapt each session based on their needs, but I’m still the one choosing the materials so the activity stays connected to our current theme.

9. I’m human too

I can make mistakes — but I always try to stay empathetic, honest, and understanding with my students. Observing them, trying to understand them, and learning from them is part of my job… and also part of my own personal growth.

💬 Conclusion

Teaching French to children isn’t just about language — it’s about helping them grow, build confidence, and discover joy in learning.
Every class is different, every group has its own rhythm, and that’s the magic of teaching: adapting, observing, and enjoying the process together.