FIAF Preschool Mission Statement
The FIAF Preschool’s mission is to provide a joyful entry for children ages 3 to 4 to the French language and cultures. Our goal is to help your child become independent, curious, and open to new experiences and explorations.
Our program will combine the nurturing atmosphere of an American school with the structured activities of French preschools. You will see a full description of our activities here.
French Immersion
As a prominent New York cultural institution, FIAF is uniquely positioned to provide total French immersion. All classes at the FIAF Preschool are conducted in French only.
Life in New York City offers a child constant exposure to English to develop those language skills. The three hours a day of FIAF Preschool are entirely presented in French, to build a strong foundation for French language skills. For the rest of their lives, children will benefit from near native-like pronunciation and intonation.
Our Unique Advantage
The FIAF Preschool lets children discover the rich world of French language and cultures. Preschool students will have exclusive access to FIAF’s cultural programs specifically conceived to enrich their language-learning experience.
Children at FIAF are a priority. The past three years represent a significant increase in children at FIAF, a positive addition that brings life, energy, and dynamic change. Our entire team has embarked on a mission to expand and enhance what we offer for children. In the coming years, FIAF plans to expand our already robust cultural programming for children.
In the Haskell Library, the bright and cozy Espace Jeunesse is entirely devoted to children. Children’s Materials, from books and magazines to CDs and videos, represent 25% of total circulation. Library programs designed for ages 3 to 6 like L’Heure du conte and Contes et confettis offer story-time, songs, and crafts entirely in French. The Library is also developing new activities exclusively for children enrolled in the Preschool that will be tied to their curriculum to further enhance their studies.
FIAF already welcomes children ages 4 and older for CinéKids, screenings of French movies for children followed by arts-and-crafts activities inspired by the film shown. Each year, the number of screenings has increased to better serve FIAF’s growing audience of children.
FIAF works often in collaboration with reputable artists with whom we will offer innovative programs for the Preschool students, customized for their language and development level. Kids will explore arts and crafts with featured artists in our Gallery and see live performances for young audiences in Florence Gould Hall. We want our Preschoolers to benefit from the rich cultural programs at FIAF and be part of our vibrant famille.