What is TLC?
TLC is one of the most effective language enrichment programs in the US and has been around for over twenty years. Established in Hawaii in 2001 by Toru Funatsu, his unique approach to phonics has helped over 5000 children master English at an early age and enter prestigious international schools such as Harker School, I’olani, and more. As a TLC partner school, we utilize their three approaches to acquiring English: music, visual cues, and theatrical activities.
The program takes learners through three different levels, beginner, intermediate, and advanced, meaning that even those with little to no English can participate and master over 5,000 words before the first grade. Combining this with a curriculum that sharpens critical thinking skills, this is the perfect English course for all children seeking a global education.
Toru Funatsu
Featured in Newsweek, Weekly NY Japion, and Palkids, Mr. Funatsu began developing English courses over 20 years ago. Getting his start in the finance industry, Mr. Funatsu made the transition to creating English learning materials. After that he founded his first TLC learning center in Hawaii, later expanding to LA and Shanghai where he has helped the children of celebrities and professional athletes get into top schools across the U.S.. TLC was voted the 2nd most effective learning resource in the U.S. by the largest online learning site, OpenEd. In addition, Mr. Funatsu has written several books about raising bilingual children and international education which can be found below. We highly recommend them for anyone thinking about raising bilingual children or interested in global education! You can check out all of his work here.
Why Phonics?
Phonics are the building blocks of English and are vital for success in school. Children who learn phonics at a young age develop the necessary skills to excel in reading and writing. Due to the lack of uniformity in the sounds and spelling of English, many non-native learners fall behind in reading and ultimately do not reach native level English. In order to solve this, a strong foundation in phonics is needed to accelerate vocabulary, improve reading, and ensure early success on. Future Education’s approach to phonics focuses on stimulating oral communication and memory through creativity. Through song and dance, children are able to quickly memorize sounds of the English language coupled with activities that help students recognize sounds in reading and writing. The program also offers comprehensive review material that can be done at home with children - and don’t worry, all of the audio material will be included, so you don’t have to worry about speaking!
Phonics Class (3 -8 years)
Future Education’s Phonics program has three different levels that students can join. When a student first joins, they will take a simple placement test where our teachers can decide which level will be appropriate to start.
Beginner: 6 months ~
Students will learn the alphabet, lower & uppercase letters, short & long vowels, tons of vocabulary, and more!
Intermediate: 1 year ~
Students will build upon beginner to enhance vocabulary, learn word endings, and begin sight words.
Advanced: 6 months ~
In the last level, students continue to learn new sight words, review prior vocabulary, and practice language comprehension through stories.
Toddler Class (1.5 - 3 years)
The toddler class is a great way to get your child on a head start to mastering English in the same way that native children learn! Adapted from the phonics class for 3 - 8 year old’s, this program targets three main areas for your child.
Phonetic Awareness
Gaining a firm awareness of the sounds of English through song and play, toddlers will become accustomed to the rhythm of English and create a strong foundation.
Cultural Knowledge
By using nursery rhymes and child songs from English speaking countries, your child will not only become bilingual, but also bicultural.
Creativity & Motor Skills
Mixing in story time, puzzles, art and games allows toddlers to develop critical thinking, fine motor skills, and activate exercise both the right and left side of the brain.
