Do We Learn a New Language Differently as Adults?
Discover Why Moving, Playing, and Doing Makes All the Difference!
Have you ever tried to learn a new language as an adult and felt it was harder than expected? Maybe you struggled with endless grammar rules, boring memorization, or the stress of making mistakes. You’re not alone! As adults, our brains learn differently than when we were children—and recognizing this can completely transform your experience. The good news? There are ways to make learning a new language faster, easier, and much more fun. Science shows that moving your body, playing, and learning by doing are key to mastering a new language effectively. At Absolutely French, we have created a unique approach based on these insights: learning through movement, through play, and through “learning by doing.” Why is this method so powerful? Because it is built on key principles from neuroscience applied to learning, and because it respects how human beings naturally absorb new skills. Plus, it’s packed with laughter, surprises, and even the occasional croissant mishap!✨ Learning through movement:
Movement stimulates the production of neurotrophins, which strengthen neural connections and boost memory retention. Research shows that when we engage our bodies, our brains are more active and receptive. Imagine racing through Montmartre during a language scavenger hunt—you’re not just memorizing vocabulary, you’re living it! This physical engagement enhances cognitive functions and makes learning a new language anchored in emotion. The result? Faster learning, longer retention, and unforgettable memories. Read the Harvard medical school on this subject
✨ The power of play:
Games create a positive emotional context, essential for deep and lasting learning. When we have fun, our brains release dopamine, enhancing attention, motivation, and memory. Picture trying to act out “crêperie” without speaking a word of English—hilarious and deeply educational! Every playful moment reduces anxiety and builds authentic language skills essential for learning a new language.✨ Learning by doing:
Cooking a French meal, navigating a Parisian market, or pretending to be a local tour guide allows learners to live the language. Immediate practice anchors new knowledge far more effectively than passive memorization. One of our favorite memories? Watching a student negotiate cheese prices at a local market—and ending up with double the cheese they bargained for!
✨ Stress: the enemy of learning:
Neuroscience shows that stress inhibits the brain’s ability to absorb new information. High cortisol levels negatively impact memory formation and cognitive performance. That’s why a warm, supportive environment where mistakes are milestones—not failures—is essential. We cheer for every “almost-right” sentence because every attempt is a step closer to fluency in learning a new language.✨ Full and natural immersion:
Immersion might feel intimidating at first, but it’s the most natural way to learn a new language. We teach entirely in French from day one—the way children learn their first language—through context, repetition, and interaction. No translation, just pure absorption.✨ No need to obsess over grammar at the start:
Grammar is important, but too much focus on it early on can block your ability to communicate. It’s better to prioritize speaking and comprehension first when learning a new language. Grammar will naturally follow as you interact, listen, and play. And let’s be honest—no one fell in love with a language because of perfect conjugations! All these elements combined create the success of Absolutely French: our participants learn better, faster, and with a genuine smile! Since 2015, we have helped more than 1,256 expatriate spouses from over 70 different nationalities successfully integrate into French life. Our unique method doesn’t just teach French—it transforms the entire expatriation experience into a joyful and empowering journey. When you move your body, play with curiosity, immerse yourself fully, and let go of unnecessary stress, learning a new language becomes an adventure of discovery and connection. At Absolutely French, we don’t just teach French—we create unforgettable experiences that unlock each learner’s potential. Discover our real ife adventure to teach you French as expats or expat partners. Learning a new language can be pure joy—you just need the right method!Absolutely French – Who We Are – Companies Services
Absolutely French is the first French language school entirely dedicated to expat partners and expatriates.
Our mission:
To support dual careers in expat families by helping partners integrate quickly and confidently into French life.
Our method:
Fun, friendly, and innovative French courses that guarantee results — and help build a local network.
Looking for French classes tailored for expat partners?
Want to register your employee’s spouse for a high-quality program?
Let’s connect!
Email: contact@absolutely-french.eu
Phone: +33 (0)1 83 73 98 49
Address: 4, rue Faraday, 75017 Paris