Fitzroy Early Learning Centre offers enrolled children access to the CO.AS.IT Il Girotondo Italian Language Program on Wednesdays each week, for Kinder and Pre-Kinder aged Children. 

Fitzroy ELC is located within the Fitzroy/Carlton North area and given that Carlton is synonymous with Italian Migrants, Italian traditions & culture, we set out to offer children a language program that aligns with and helps them to embrace and learn about the community in which they reside and attend childcare/kindergarten.

The Il Girotondo program has been developed by CO.AS.IT in accordance with the Victorian Early Years Learning & Development Framework Curriculum. CO.AS.IT is the Italian Assistance Association that has operated in Australia since 1968 as a charitable institution, strongly committed to the general well-being and enhancement of the quality of life of the Italian-Australian community. 

The CO.AS.IT approach to the Il Girotondo Italian Program fosters a dynamic and engaging environment where language acquisition becomes an enjoyable adventure. In addition to learning the language, the program introduces children to the rich tapestry of Italian culture. Young learners participate in cooking classes where they discover the joy of italian cuisine. They also get to celebrate traditional festivals, immersing themselves in the vibrant traditions and customs of Italy.

Research shows that learning a language has many benefits, like

• enhances literacy by practising reading and writing skills
• encourages respect and understanding of cultural diversity
• stimulates brain development
• develops cognitive flexibility 
• improves memory, concentration, problem-solving and numeracy skills
• contributes to school readiness

Some of the topics covered include:

• Le Stagioni (The Seasons)
• Le Emozioni (Feelings)
• Il Corpo (The Body)
• I colori (Colours)
• I numeri (Numbers)
• Gli animali della fattoria (Farm Animals)
• Gli animali australiani (Native Australian Animals)
• Il cyclo della vita (The circle of life)
• Riciclare (Recycling)
• Festa della Mamma / Festa del Papa (Mother’s Day / Father’s Day)
• Natale/Pasqua/Carnevale (Christmas/Easter/Venetian Carnival)

Feel free to speak to us more about the program when you come in for a tour or orientations at Fitzroy Early Learning Centre. Click here to join our waitlist.