PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
All Explorers programs are about introducing French naturally and helping parents build daily routines so that French becomes part of everyday life. Through songs, games, and storytime, children absorb the language the way they learn their mother tongue, while parents gain tools to extend learning beyond the classroom.
At this developmental stage, children have their greatest ability to absorb and retain a second language. While grammar and vocabulary can be learned later, phonological acquisition is time-sensitive –which is why Explorers emphasizes speaking through the Listen. Absorb. Speak.™ method.
For the 2025–2026 school year, we offer three levels of Explorers, available as private or small group classes (max. 8 students), all held in person:
- Explorers I (6–18 months) – 25 minutes
A parent-and-baby class with songs and storytime to introduce French naturally.
- Explorers II (18–36 months) – 35 minutes
A parent-and-toddler class where children begin engaging more actively, supported by familiar routines and playful activities.
- Explorers III (3–5 years) – 45 minutes
A child-only class designed for preschoolers ready to participate independently, building confidence in French through games, songs, and stories.
SCHEDULE
The APS Explorers™ program is divided into four sessions:
- Fall Session: September 22 – December 12, 2025 (No classes October 27–31 and November 24–28)
- Winter Session: January 5 – March 20, 2026 (No classes February 9–13)
- Spring Session: April 6 – May 22, 2026
- Summer Session: TBD
We offer three programs:
- Explorers I (6–18 months) – Fridays at 5 p.m.
- Explorers II (18–36 months) – Mondays at 5:15 p.m.
- Explorers III (3–5 years) – Fridays at 5:45 p.m. & Saturdays at 9 a.m.
CHOOSE A CLASS
TESTIMONIALS
Heidi Frei
I love APS as do my children! I feel I have a decent ability with only a 15 months of studying. My children love the instructor and really look forward
…
I love APS as do my children! I feel I have a decent ability with only a 15 months of studying. My children love the instructor and really look forward to learning French. My oldest daughter has been studying for about 4 years and her progress is impressive! I would highly recommend for families, adults and children!
Read more “Heidi Frei”
Student & Mom of Marisol (7) and Freya (1)
April 13, 2020
Taylor Treece
Over the last 3 years, our entire family have become dedicated Aux Petits Soins students. Gaëlle has crafted thoughtful language programs for adults and children alike, regardless of experience level.
…
Over the last 3 years, our entire family have become dedicated Aux Petits Soins students. Gaëlle has crafted thoughtful language programs for adults and children alike, regardless of experience level. While I had prior french exposure before APS, I found my experiences in the classroom or on language apps never stuck or gave me a true understanding of the language and culture the way Gaëlle’s methods have. Focused on the science behind language learning, her programs are unique and designed to foster life-long habits and the skills to continuously improve your french. Perhaps most importantly, Gaëlle has fostered an incredible, welcoming community at Aux Petits Soins, with seasonal cultural events and friendships that carry over outside of the classroom. If you have been wanting to learn or improve your french, there is no better option than Aux Petits Soins!
Read more “Taylor Treece”
Student and mom of Finley (2)
September 7, 2025
Heidi Frei
My family has been studying French at Aux Petits Soins since my oldest started about four years ago. She has worked through the Explorers, Travel Bugs and World Citizens programs
…
My family has been studying French at Aux Petits Soins since my oldest started about four years ago. She has worked through the Explorers, Travel Bugs and World Citizens programs and absolutely loves it! She looks forward to her lesson each week, especially the games and interaction with her classmates. She is now also learning Spanish and I know that her exposure to French early on has helped her excel. Our toddler is now also enrolled in Explorers and she has so much fun in class. She is now including French numbers, animals, colors and other vocabulary in with her English on a daily basis. Gaëlle is absolutely wonderful with children and has a talent for engaging and encouraging them. Inspired by the fun and progress I’ve seen with my children, I have also studied at APS for almost two years. I love learning French and gaining insight into French culture. I’m happy with my progress and look forward to traveling to France in the future. Immersion works for me and my children and I would encourage anyone to give it a try!
Read more “Heidi Frei”
Student & Mom of Marisol (8) and Freya (2)
November 26, 2020
You must be logged in to post a comment.