"Latin" is one of the words that automatically comes to mind when thinking about classical education.  The discipline of learning this "dead" language has many pay-offs, the most obvious one being the improvement of skill in English grammar.  This grammatical skill has application in several other Latin-based modern languages as well.  While learning this systematic language, the child is also being trained  to think logically, to observe patterns, and to categorize.

     The language that comes to mind when thinking about a Charlotte Mason education is French.  Who can forget that glorious picture she painted of the outdoor French lesson in Home Education?  The knowledge of the French language was practical for Ms. Mason's English students because of the close proximity of the two countries and their shared histories.   American students may find it beneficial to study Spanish for the same types of reasons.

     The Tanglewood School Curriculum offers a Latin program starting in the 2nd grade.  We do not offer any modern languages as of yet, but there are several programs available for young children that you might feel would be beneficial to your child's education.  (We'd be interested to know what works or doesn't work for you!)