PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
All Explorers programs are about introducing French naturally and helping parents build daily routines so that French becomes part of everyday life. Through songs, games, and storytime, children absorb the language the way they learn their mother tongue, while parents gain tools to extend learning beyond the classroom.
At this developmental stage, children have their greatest ability to absorb and retain a second language. While grammar and vocabulary can be learned later, phonological acquisition is time-sensitive –which is why Explorers emphasizes speaking through the Listen. Absorb. Speak.™ method.
For the 2026–2027 school year, we offer three levels of Explorers, available as private or small group classes (max. 8 students), all held in person:
- Explorers I (6–18 months) – 25 minutes
A parent-and-baby class with songs and storytime to introduce French naturally.
- Explorers II (18–36 months) – 35 minutes
A parent-and-toddler class where children begin engaging more actively, supported by familiar routines and playful activities.
- Explorers III (3–5 years) – 45 minutes
A child-only class designed for preschoolers ready to participate independently, building confidence in French through games, songs, and stories.
SCHEDULE
School year 2026-2027
During the school year, the APS Explorers™ program is divided into three sessions. You can enroll to one session or the full year at a discounted price (coupon code: FY27EXP)
- Fall Session: September 14 – December 11, 2026 (no class October 26–31 and November 23–27. These weeks may be used for make-up classes.)
- Winter Session: January 4 – March 26, 2027 (no class February 8–12. This week may be used for make-up classes.)
- Spring Session: April 5 – May 28, 2027.
We offer three programs during the school year:
CHOOSE A CLASS
School year 2026-2027
We offer three programs during the school year:
Explorers I (6–18 months) – Mondays at 5 p.m.
Explorers II (18–36 months) – Fridays at 5 p.m.
Explorers III (3–5 years) – Fridays at 5:45 p.m
TESTIMONIALS
Heidi Frei
I love APS as do my children! I feel I have a decent ability with only a 15 months of studying. My children love the instructor and really look forward
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I love APS as do my children! I feel I have a decent ability with only a 15 months of studying. My children love the instructor and really look forward to learning French. My oldest daughter has been studying for about 4 years and her progress is impressive! I would highly recommend for families, adults and children!
Read more “Heidi Frei”
Student & Mom of Marisol (7) and Freya (1)
April 13, 2020
Breaha Wallin
We absolutely love Aux Petits Soins! My 3-month-old daughter and I drive 1.5 hours from Midland once or twice per month so that we can enjoy the benefits of the
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We absolutely love Aux Petits Soins! My 3-month-old daughter and I drive 1.5 hours from Midland once or twice per month so that we can enjoy the benefits of the class. We would be going once or twice per week if we lived in Lansing. I cannot recommend it enough. Gaëlle is an absolute joy and has a talent for engaging even the youngest students. At just 8 weeks, my daughter was enthralled with the songs, colors and enthusiasm Gaëlle brings. I love that it is a relaxed, intimate atmosphere where the spontaneous needs of infants and toddlers are understood and welcomed.
Read more “Breaha Wallin”
Mom of Shaylee (3 months)
June 8, 2015
Taylor Treece
Over the last 3 years, our entire family have become dedicated Aux Petits Soins students. Gaëlle has crafted thoughtful language programs for adults and children alike, regardless of experience level.
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Over the last 3 years, our entire family have become dedicated Aux Petits Soins students. Gaëlle has crafted thoughtful language programs for adults and children alike, regardless of experience level. While I had prior french exposure before APS, I found my experiences in the classroom or on language apps never stuck or gave me a true understanding of the language and culture the way Gaëlle’s methods have. Focused on the science behind language learning, her programs are unique and designed to foster life-long habits and the skills to continuously improve your french. Perhaps most importantly, Gaëlle has fostered an incredible, welcoming community at Aux Petits Soins, with seasonal cultural events and friendships that carry over outside of the classroom. If you have been wanting to learn or improve your french, there is no better option than Aux Petits Soins!
Read more “Taylor Treece”
Student and mom of Finley (2)
September 7, 2025
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