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A girl from the primary class waving two national flags.

Promoting Cultural Awareness at Tessa International School

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A critical part of helping our students become caring and happy world citizens is guiding them to understand and respect different cultures. Compared to local schools which often reflect a more homogenous cultural environment, we, as an international school, immerse students in a naturally diverse community where they experience a wide variety of cultural perspectives daily. By prioritizing cultural awareness, we prevent children from believing generalizations or stereotypes associated with a particular race, gender, or ethnicity. Instead, an appreciation for their own and others’ cultural differences is promoted from early childhood. 

“At Tessa, children are introduced to other languages and cultures in order to enhance their cultural awareness; they are bilingual and culturally adaptable.”

– The Mission Statement of Tessa International School.

A diverse group of students from various races, ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds collaborating in a classroom at Tessa International School.

Cultural awareness is fundamental to providing a uplifting learning environment for all students.

A Multicultural Community

As of September, 2024, more than 60 different cultures are represented within our Tessa Community. This multicultural environment provides students with firsthand opportunities to experience diverse perspectives and practices. Children engage in collaborative projects with peers from various backgrounds, smoothly cultivating mutual respect and open-mindedness across national boundaries. 

To ensure a multicultural education that is responsive to all students, our teachers are all highly credentialed native speakers of English, French, Mandarin or Spanish, who bring a wealth of expertise and experience in their respective fields, and cultural knowledge to their teaching. This ensures that our students receive the highest quality bilingual education. Together, we create a collaborative and supportive community that develops all members a profound sense of belonging and appreciation for the richness that diversity brings.

A world map shown over 60 cultures represented at Tessa

Our school community reflects a specturm of diversity and inclusion.

A School Life Full of Cultural Celebrations

Due to the international nature of our school community, cultural awareness thrives through our celebrations and festivals, which are significant components of our vibrant school life. These events are more than fun activities; they manifest emotions, traditions, and knowledge, all of which are essential to our students’ understanding of the global world. 

Throughout the year, we celebrate events such as Hispanic Heritage Month, Lunar New Year, and Fête de la Musique – connected to our Spanish, Mandarin, and French bilingual programs for students to apply their targeted languages in real-life contexts – along with a range of other cultural traditions. These celebrations immerse our students in different cultures with interactive opportunities, whether enjoying traditional dishes, performing cultural dances, or directly communicating with guest speakers from specific cultures. Celebrations not only spark curiosity about different ideas, beliefs, and values but also inspire deeper cultural exchanges. 

We always welcome parents to volunteer in organizing or/and supporting school events to share their cultural legacies across generations. By participating in and learning about traditions, students deepen their appreciation for how cultural diversity enriches our shared experiences.

You can check our upcoming school events here. 

To celebrate the UN Day, a class of primary students at Tessa wearing their cultural outfits and holding up a poster that says "together in the world" in Spanish.

At Tessa, children are introduced to other languages and cultures to enhance their cultural awareness.

An Integrated International Curriculum

To provide students with both academic excellence and a global perspective, we offer an exceptional education based on international best practices. On a closer look, Tessa International School holds three premier global accreditations as a testament of our commitment to academic excellence: 

  1. International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP)
  2. French Ministry of Education for our Maternelle program (Preschool to Kindergarten)
  3. Cognia for our Preschool, Kindergarten, and Primary School Programs

Our globally recognized programs, with a focus on bilingualism, enable a seamless transition into other accredited institutions worldwide and a strong pathway towards higher education, facilitating their global mobility and fostering their continued success. 

 

Multicultural understanding is a valuable asset for children, helping them build greater self-esteem and form successful personal and professional relationships in different settings. From our multicultural community full of dynamic celebrations to worldwide recognized international curriculum, we prepare students not only to achieve academic competence but also to engage with the world as open-minded, culturally aware citizens.

 

FAQs

Q: Why should we foster children’s cultural awareness? 

Fostering cultural awareness in children helps them become more empathetic, adaptable, and open-minded individuals. In an increasingly interconnected world, it is vital for children to appreciate and respect differences. By developing an understanding of various cultures early on, they grow into adults who are better equipped to collaborate across cultural lines, reducing prejudices, gaining global competency, and creating a more inclusive world. 

Q: How does Tessa International School promote students’ cultural awareness? 

At Tessa International School, fostering cultural awareness is inherent in both our curriculum and daily school life. Accredited by the IBO and the French Ministry of Education, we integrate international best practices into our bilingual curriculum to ensure a globally recognized, high-quality education. This approach equips students with a broad perspective, helping them develop an understanding of different cultures while gaining academic excellence. Additionally, our community represents over 60 different cultures, allowing students to engage with peers from around the world and learn about different perspectives firsthand. A wide variety of cultural festivals and holidays are honored and celebrated, offering students a rich tapestry of global traditions, stories, and customs that enhance their appreciation for diversity.

Q: What role do parents play in promoting cultural awareness? 

A: Parents play a crucial role in fostering children’s cultural awareness as the primary role models who demonstrate open-mindedness and respect for diversity. By engaging in discussions about different traditions, values, and perspectives at home, parents can help children see the world through a broader lens. At Tessa International School, we encourage parents to actively participate in our cultural celebrations and festivals to show parental engagement in students’ learning journey and help us create an inclusive community. Moreover, supporting bilingual education also fuels children’s understanding of diverse cultures, making them more cultural aware and knowledgeable citizens. 

 

Are you ready to explore the only international leading private school in Hoboken?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

 

 

 

A student attending one of the top Hoboken private schools sitting in a classroom

Importance of Language Development in Early Childhood

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Why is language important for children’s learning? Language development is one of the most critical aspects of early childhood education, serving as the foundation for all future learning.

At Tessa International School, we understand that fostering strong language skills in young children goes beyond just teaching them to speak. It’s about providing them the tools to explore, understand, and interact with the world around them. Let’s explore why language is so important for children’s learning together.

Why Is Language Important for Children’s Learning

Language plays a crucial role in a child’s cognitive development from the earliest years. Why are language skills important for children? Through language, children learn to express their thoughts, needs, and emotions.

How does language influence child development? Language plays a crucial role in child development by shaping cognitive abilities, enhancing communication skills, and supporting social interactions. Together, these contribute to better problem-solving, critical thinking, and overall learning.

At Tessa International School, we understand that strong language skills are essential for academic success. Whether children learn to solve mathematical problems, understand scientific concepts, or appreciate the arts, their ability to use and comprehend language enhances their learning experience. By focusing on language development from an early age, we help children build the skills they need to excel in all areas of their education.

A group of students attending one of the top Hoboken private schools reading

We recognize the power of language at our Spanish, Mandarin, and French international school.

The Role of Early Language Development in Social and Emotional Growth

Why is language important for children’s learning beyond academics? Early language development is crucial for a child’s social and emotional growth. Language allows children to form relationships, express their feelings, and navigate social situations. When children can communicate effectively, they are more likely to form positive relationships with their peers and teachers, boosting their confidence and self-esteem.

At Tessa International School, we emphasize the importance of oral and written expression in helping children develop these critical social and emotional skills. Our curriculum is designed to provide ample opportunities for children to practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing. By encouraging children to express themselves in various ways, we help them develop a strong sense of identity and self-awareness.

How Tessa International School Supports Language Development

At Tessa International School, language development is integrated into every part of our curriculum. Whether students explore art, math, or the world around them, they enhance their language skills through activities that promote communication and group discussions.

Our Spanish, Mandarin, and French international school emphasizes early bilingual exposure, recognizing the cognitive benefits of multilingualism, such as improved memory, spatial awareness, and cognitive flexibility. Daily immersion helps students build the confidence and skills to become proficient bilingual speakers, preparing them to thrive as global citizens in a connected world.

Student attending one of the top Hoboken private schools working with a teacher

Expose your child to the many benefits of multilingualism at Tessa.

Investing in Your Child’s Future

The early years of a child’s life are a critical period for language development. That said, there are many reasons to choose an international school for your child. By choosing Tessa International School, you give your child the best possible start in their educational journey. Our focus on language development ensures that your child will be well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, both academically and socially.

At Tessa International School, we are committed to helping each child reach their full potential by providing a rich and supportive environment where language development is a key focus. We invite you to learn more about our programs and how we can help your child thrive in their early years and beyond.

Are you ready to enroll your child in one of the leading Hoboken private schools? 

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Why are language skills important for children?

Answer: It is through language that children learn to express their thoughts, needs, and emotions.

Question: How does language influence child development? 

Answer: Language plays a crucial role in child development by shaping cognitive abilities, enhancing communication skills, supporting social interactions, and contributing to better problem-solving, critical thinking, and overall learning.

A student in French International School doing coursework

Why Learning Another Language in K-12 School Matters

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Why should students learn a second language? At Tessa International School, we cultivate the ability to communicate in multiple languages, an invaluable skill that shapes a child’s educational journey and future. 

The benefits for parents considering enrolling their children in a school that prioritizes language learning are manifold and compelling. Let’s explore them together.

Why Students Should Learn a Second Language: The Value of Early Bilingual Education

Research consistently shows that early childhood is the optimal time for language acquisition. The brain’s circuits associated with language learning are more flexible at a young age, making it easier for children to learn new languages and achieve fluency.

At Tessa International School, we recognize the immense advantages of early bilingual education, and our programs are designed to maximize these benefits. What are 3 benefits of learning a second language? Enhanced cognitive development, fostering cultural awareness and sensitivity, and enhanced future opportunities come to mind.

1. Enhanced Cognitive Development

Perhaps the most commonly cited answer to our initial question: why should students learn a second language? Learning another language enhances cognitive development. What are the cognitive advantages of multilingualism? Children who grow up bilingual demonstrate superior problem-solving skills, creativity, and critical thinking abilities. 

This cognitive boost stems from the brain’s need to manage two language systems, strengthening executive function – the mental processes that enable planning, focusing attention, remembering instructions, and juggling multiple tasks. This cognitive flexibility gives bilingual children a significant academic edge over their monolingual peers.

Students in French International School learning letters

Enhanced cognitive skills are a key reason why students should learn a foreign language.

2. Fostering Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity

Secondly, bilingual education fosters cultural awareness and sensitivity. In our diverse and globalized society, understanding and appreciating different cultures is a crucial skill.

At Tessa, students are immersed in language acquisition and the rich cultural contexts these languages represent. This cultural immersion promotes empathy and respect for others, preparing our students to be global citizens who can navigate multicultural environments with ease and confidence.

3. Opening Future Opportunities

Another reason why students should learn a foreign language is that bilingualism opens up a world of future opportunities. Proficiency in multiple languages is highly valued in today’s job market, providing a competitive advantage in various fields such as international business, diplomacy, and technology.

Furthermore, bilingual individuals often have more opportunities to study, work, and travel abroad, enriching their personal and professional lives.

Tessa International School’s Unparalleled Educational Experience

If you’re pondering reasons to choose an international school, our didactic method might help you decide. Our approach ensures students become fully bilingual through immersive and dual-language teaching methods with a choice of Spanish, French, or Mandarin alongside English. In our preschool program, from Nursery through Kindergarten, students experience full immersion in their target language. They are taught 80% of the time in this language, allowing them to build a robust and lifelong foundation.

As students transition to primary school, starting in Grade 1, they benefit from our dual-language approach. They spend half the week with their English teacher and the other half with their target language teacher. This structure allows for the seamless integration of language learning into their broader educational experience.

Student in French International in a classroom

Why should students learn a foreign language? Research reveals a host of benefits.

Fostering A Love Of Languages

Our Spanish, Mandarin, and French International School offer a multilingual environment encourages a genuine love for languages. Sienna’s parents appreciate how we’ve instilled a joyful love of learning: “We are very pleased with the education Tessa has been providing for our son. We feel they offer an environment in which he can thrive and shine. In the few months he’s been there, his knowledge of Spanish has grown tremendously. We love hearing him count and sing in Spanish! And we can tell the teachers and administration care about each and every one of the students; he is genuinely happy to go to school each day. We are very happy to be a part of the Tessa family!”

Are you ready to explore one of the top Hoboken private schools?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What are 3 benefits of learning a second language?

Answer: Enhanced cognitive development, fostering cultural awareness and sensitivity, and enhanced future opportunities come to mind. 

Question: What are the cognitive advantages of multilingualism?

Answer: Children who grow up bilingual demonstrate superior problem-solving skills, creativity, and critical thinking abilities.

A preschool student at a French immersion school at a graduation presentation

Preschool vs. Pre-kindergarten: Similarities and Differences

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As you explore early childhood education options for your child, you may encounter terms like “preschool” and “pre-kindergarten” (pre-k). While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, you may wonder, what’s the difference between preschool and pre-k?

At Tessa International School, we understand the importance of knowing the subtle yet meaningful differences between various educational programs to choose the best one for your child’s developmental stage and learning needs.

This blog post defines preschool and pre-k, highlights their key differences, and explains how our preschool program prepares children for future academic success.

Defining Preschool and Pre-kindergarten

Preschool at our French international school and its other two bilingual tracks, Mandarin and Spanish, is an early childhood education program designed for children aged 2 to 4. It focuses on social, emotional, and cognitive development through play-based learning and structured activities. Preschool aims to nurture a child’s curiosity, creativity, and social skills, laying a solid foundation for lifelong learning.

Pre-Kindergarten, on the other hand, is a program specifically designed for children aged 4 to 5, typically the year before they enter kindergarten. Pre-K emphasizes school readiness with a curriculum that includes early literacy, math concepts, and social skills. The goal is to prepare children for the structured kindergarten environment and beyond.

Students at a French immersion school working together at a table

The main difference between preschool and pre-kindergarten is the age of students.

What’s the Difference Between Preschool and Pre-K

What’s the difference between preschool and pre-k? Preschool programs are for younger children, usually between 2 and 4, while pre-k programs are for children 4 to 5. What is the best age to start preschool? Preschool programs are for younger children between ages 2 and 3. The average age to start is three; however, this depends on the child.

The curriculum focus also varies; preschools concentrate on play-based learning and socialization, whereas pre-k programs have a more structured curriculum emphasizing academic readiness.

Additionally, preschools offer flexible duration options, including half-day and full-day attendance, while pre-k programs often follow a more standardized schedule, similar to a full school day.

Lastly, while both programs aim to foster holistic development, preschools focus more on social and emotional skills, creativity, and basic cognitive abilities. Pre-k programs emphasize preparing children for kindergarten academic demands, focusing more on literacy, numeracy, and school readiness skills.

The Preschool Program at Tessa International School

At our French immersion school program and its other two bilingual tracks, Mandarin and Spanish, we believe early childhood education is the cornerstone of a child’s academic journey. Our preschool program is designed to nurture the whole child, providing a warm, multicultural environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning.

We offer bilingual education, allowing children to learn in English, Spanish, French, or Mandarin, fostering early language acquisition and cultural awareness.

A French immersion school class learning math with their teacher

Preschool at our French international school prepares children to excel in kindergarten.

Our preschool program focuses on social-emotional development, prioritizing developing social skills, emotional regulation, and empathy. We emphasize cognitive growth through play-based learning and hands-on activities, encouraging critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.

Physical well-being is another key component, with activities and outdoor play incorporated to promote healthy development and motor skills. As an international school, we celebrate cultural diversity, encouraging children to appreciate and learn from different cultures.

By providing a holistic and nurturing preschool experience, we prepare our children not just for pre-K or kindergarten but for a lifetime of learning and discovery.

Choosing the right early childhood education program is crucial for your child’s development. Understanding the differences between preschool and pre-kindergarten can help you make an informed decision that best suits your child’s needs.

At Tessa International School, our preschool program offers a unique blend of play-based learning, language immersion, and cultural diversity, preparing children for academic success and global citizenship. If you want to learn more about our preschool program, we invite you to visit our campus and experience the Tessa difference.

Are you ready to explore one of the best Hoboken private schools?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is the best age to start preschool?

Answer: Preschool programs are for younger children between ages 2 and 3. The average age to start is three; however, this depends on the child.

Question: What’s the difference between preschool and pre-k?

Answer: Preschool programs are for younger children, usually between 2 and 4, while pre-K programs are for children 4 to 5.

A student at TESSA French International School raising his hand in class

From Speech to Script: How Does Oral Language Empower Children’s Writing

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As educators at Tessa International School, we witness daily the incredible journey our young students undertake as they navigate learning. A key aspect of this journey, especially in the formative years of education, is the development of oral language and its significant impact on writing skills. But how does oral language support children’s writing?

Understanding the interconnection between spoken language and written expression is crucial for supporting our children’s academic and personal growth. Keep reading to learn more about this fascinating connection and how our curriculum nurtures strong literacy skills that serve our students well into the future.

The Foundation of Literacy

Oral language serves as the foundation of literacy. Before children can read or write, they speak and listen. This initial stage of language acquisition is where they start to understand language structure, expand their vocabulary, and learn to communicate effectively. In our diverse classrooms, children are exposed to a rich tapestry of sounds, words, and sentence structures, which, in turn, enriches their linguistic capabilities.

A student at TESSA French International School writing

Our French international school builds strong literacy skills through oral learning activities.

Bridging Oral and Written Skills: How Does Oral Language Empower Children’s Writing?

The leap from speaking to writing is significant. Writing requires children to process their thoughts, structure them coherently, and present them in a way others can understand. How does oral language empower children’s writing?

The skills developed through oral language activities – storytelling, discussions, and presentations provide children with a robust framework for correctly conceptualizing their ideas and transforming them into compelling writing. As children learn to express themselves verbally, they gain confidence in communicating through the written word.

Empowering Creative Expression

Creativity and self-expression flourish when children feel confident in their language abilities. What are the effects of oral language on written expression? Oral language development helps children explore their thoughts and feelings in boundless, expansive ways. At Tessa, activities like Storybuilders Drama stimulate imagination and expression.

Effective self-expression through oral communication is a highly transferable skill that paves the way for excellent writing skills. When children realize that their spoken or written words have value, they are likely to take risks in their writing, leading to more expressive and meaningful work.

A student at TESSA French International School presenting in front of the class

Our French international school fosters effective expression and communication skills.

Enhancing Academic Performance

The correlation between strong oral language skills and academic achievement is well-documented. Children proficient in oral language tend to have an easier time understanding reading materials, engaging in classroom discussions, and grasping complex concepts.

How does oral language help children? With a solid oral language foundation, students can better organize their thoughts, reason through arguments, and convey their understanding of various subjects through writing. Oral communication skills in several languages also give children a significant academic advantage.

Tessa’s French Immersion School program and its other two bilingual tracks, Mandarin and Spanish, each paired with English instruction, enhance the multicultural and immersive learning environment.

Social and Emotional Development

Oral language is deeply intertwined with social and emotional development. Children learn to empathize with others, understand different perspectives, and navigate social situations through conversations.

These skills are invaluable when it comes to writing, as they enable children to consider their audience, understand the impact of their words, and communicate more effectively.

Our Role as Educators and Parents

At our French international school, we are committed to nurturing our students’ oral language development through various activities and strategies. As our children progress through their educational journey, the ability to articulate thoughts clearly and express themselves confidently in writing will serve them well beyond the classroom walls.

Our collective responsibility as educators and parents is to empower our young learners with the gift of language, unlocking doors to endless possibilities and opportunities. The link between oral language and writing is undeniable and profound.

By fostering an environment that values and encourages the development of oral language skills, we set our children on the path to becoming confident, creative, and capable communicators.

Are you ready to explore one of the leading private schools in Hoboken?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How does oral language help children?

Answer: With a solid oral language foundation, students can better organize their thoughts, reason through arguments, and convey their understanding of various subjects through writing

Question: What are the effects of oral language on written expression?

Answer: Oral language development helps children explore their thoughts and feelings in a boundless, expansive way. At Tessa, activities like Storybuilders Drama stimulate imagination and expression.

Join us at Tessa International School

Discover why our bilingual curriculum is recognized as one of the best. Learn how we combine academic excellence with engaging, interactive experiences that foster global awareness.

Inquire Tour Apply

Join us at Tessa International School

Discover why our bilingual curriculum is recognized as one of the best. Learn how we combine academic excellence with engaging, interactive experiences that foster global awareness.

Tessa International School

Office: (201) 755-5585 | Location: 720 Monroe St. Hoboken, NJ 07030