The Gaeltacht is a great experience for students and a time for them to learn more about the Irish language. 

Anyone that has been to the Gaeltacht will know that it was fun-filled and enjoyable. The Gaeltacht is a great experience for students and a time for them to learn more about the Irish language.
They get to hang out with people their own age (in safe surroundings) and build long-term friendships.
Here are some more reasons to send your child to the Gaeltacht this summer: 
Strong focus on the development of conversational Irish – Your child will have to speak in Irish throughout their stay (for as much as they can) and this is something some students may not be able to do at home. Once students put themselves into the Irish language mindset, they will find it helps their skills and improves them tremendously.
Fun and games – There are loads of things to do, including lots of fun activities to keep the youngsters entertained. There is a strong focus on team building, confidence building and leadership skills. Also, teenagers are not put into situations they would struggle in and every activity is divided into abilities and skills, so each class is properly considered and appropriately taught. Some teenagers will not enjoy every activity but there is so much to do including evening fun/entertainment.
Supervision – Parents have nothing to worry about as students are properly supervised and the team of professionals are on hand to help your teenager if they need it. Upon arrival, students are placed into their Irish classes; whether your child is at a basic level or stronger level of Irish, there is a place for them. Your teenager will receive a high standard of care and be safe and secure.
Friendships – There is no doubt that the Gaeltacht encourages new friendships, and this is one of the main reasons students love to return every year. They get a chance to meet new people and spend time in safe surroundings without parents and family! The Gaeltacht may be your teenager's first opportunity to be away from home without you and this will greatly improve their confidence. Not forgetting, it is great preparation for college life.
Accommodation – The accommodation (depending on where your teen is attending) is usually 4 or 5-bed en-suite rooms. It is always comfortable and supervised. If teenagers are travelling, they are safely transferred from their accommodation to the centre. They get an enjoyable feel for independent living while being supervised. They also get to have fun with their peers while living alongside each other.  
Some rules to consider before you talk to your teenager about attending:
  • Students must have completed 1st year in secondary school.
  • The Gaeltacht must be informed of any health or educational needs your teen has.
  • Students are expected to adhere to a code of conduct for the duration of the course.
  • Students must always make a determined effort to speak Irish and follow the rules.
Other considerations for parents/guardians:
  • Gaeltacht is expensive so make sure you plan for it and research the prices
  • Look at the activities to ensure your teenager is interested in them
  • It is time away from home, so your teen needs to be prepared to be alone for this time
  • Can your teen commit to working on their Irish?
We hope they enjoy it!
Emma Hayes is a thirty-something mum of two girls aged 16 and 10, planting her right into the teenage and tween-age years! Follow her on Twitter at @EmmaHayes25.

 

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