This year began with a double-sprained knee on December 31st while skiing. January 1st was in the hospital confirming what I already knew was going to be a different start to the year than I was used to. All of a sudden, I had time to reflect while recuperating between physio appointments. During that period, I crafted several small games on the computer and sought a simple, practical platform to support my work.  I teach Grade one.  The platform needed to be easy to manage.  In Grade one, a website has to have a simplicity to the sign-in so kiddos can be independent; but enough password controls to keep them very safe.

Despite being off work, the momentum (inspiration) continued. I built the games and posted them to the website. Something was missing. I wanted to have classroom logins. I wanted feedback when each student finished a game. These games were great for full class lessons, but I was hoping to use them for independent work. You can see some of these sample games on the website.

I started working the idea using Lovable. Using their tools, I was able to create focused websites with student logins. Using a class code, students can easily pick an avatar and enter a four digit code. When they enter the site, they have a clean dashboard with no outside advertisements or distractions. The teacher dashboard allows you to easily create a class, pick the work you need at the right level for your class and gives you feedback options at the end of the day.

Ideas evolved into a cohesive project, and all elements are coming together under the French Fun banner. In June, I practiced with my own French Immersion class, gathering valuable feedback while I refined the apps. I was so excited! This is something I could share with others! I set a summer goal of July 31st so that I could use half of the summer to actively build in the content I felt was needed. (I’m still working on it, btw) This also provided time for the development of a framework.

Today, I am pleased to announce the launch of my French Fun website. It is a safe and colourful place for young learners, or students just starting their second (or third) language journey. It is designed with simplicity in mind. The power of repetition if very important in beginning languages for FSL or French Immersion beginners.

French Fun is a website that takes all of the little ideas and gives them a home. Today I am launching the site itself, with links to the blog that I am so excited to start building. I invite you to take a moment to explore and share your impressions.

During the month of August, stay in touch for new launches each week. This is my time to focus on giving each of these little projects a push out in the world. I still have a few little spaces that didn’t quite get finished… I will continue to work on that content building. More to come!

In the meantime, head on over to August Launch #2 – my first app – French Fun Flashcards.

Happy August to you all! What an exciting summer it has been!