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I have organized my most common questions to help you find answers quickly. Explore FAQs by course type, general program details, and payment information — everything you need to know about learning with French Reading Essentials.
General Questions about the French Reading Essentials Program
What is French Reading Essentials?
French Reading Essentials is a step-by-step, phonics-based reading program designed to help children learn to read French confidently. It offers both a self-paced video course and one-on-one online tutoring to support kids in French immersion, Francophone, and homeschool programs.
Who is Madame Karine?
Madame Karine is the founder and teacher behind French Reading Essentials. She has over 20 years of classroom experience teaching French literacy and a passion for helping beginner and struggling readers build strong reading skills in French.
What age or grade levels is the program for?
The program caters primarily to early readers (kindergarten up to Grade 4) who need to build a solid reading foundation. The one-on-one tutoring option is available for all elementary levels and beyond, including students with learning differences.
Again, this is also up to your child’s maturity and readiness. On average, I would say 6-8 years old. If your child is already reading in another language, they are ready!
Who should take my courses?
The courses are ideal for a beginner French reader or a child that is struggling in French reading, as it covers all the basics and foundation for learning to read in French. It is important that the child taking one of the courses understands the French language already as all directives and lessons are taught in French. This is perfect for a French speaking homeschooler, or a child attending French immersion or Francophone school.
How can my child benefit from early French Immersion?
It is best to learn a language at a young age in order for the child to develop the right pronunciation and grammatical fluency of a native speaker.
Does your program help struggling readers?
Yes, absolutely! Often, a child struggling in French reading is struggling because they have missed the basics somewhere. Once they master the basics, they can decode fluently which then also improves their comprehension.
Does your program include reading comprehension?
In my program, we will be reading short texts throughout the lessons. I will discuss these texts and ask questions. It is crucial that your child learn to read for meaning or then reading becomes meaningless.
What to expect from my program in relation to the curriculum of Grade one; French Immersion reading?
We will cover reading strategies (decoding, word recognition of high frequency words, looking at first sound, picture clues etc.) as well as all the blended sounds taught in Grade one, and how to put them together. My program is built upon the expectations of the Grade one curriculum.
My child is in kindergarten - can they already learn French reading?
If your child is already speaking some French and has a good understanding of the language, then they may be ready to learn to read in French as well.
It really depends on your child’s maturity to concentrate and ability to understand the abstract concept of letters, the sounds they make and how these sounds go together to form words. If your child is already reading in another language, then they are for sure ready!
About the Video Course
How does the French Reading Video Course work?
The video course includes short, engaging lessons focused on vowel sounds, syllables, blended sounds, and step-by-step decoding in French. Children watch the videos, complete guided activities, and build reading confidence at their own pace, from home.
Can my child work independently?
Yes! The video lessons are designed for independent use: clear structure, consistent format, and straightforward activities help children follow along. Parents can still support or monitor progress — and the tutoring option is available if extra help is needed.
How long do we have access to the course?
Once you purchase the course, you get long-term access to all included lessons. This allows your child to review videos as often as needed, reinforcing their reading skills over time.
What materials are needed for the video course?
A printable workbook is provided with the course. The students will also be required to have coloured cardboard paper, scissors, highlighters, a small whiteboard and other regular school supplies.
Are the video classes engaging?
Yes, the student will have activities to do throughout the lesson.
How much does the video course cost?
The cost is $350, for unlimited viewing. Sometimes I run limited promotions and I also have the option to try the first lesson for only $14.99.
About the Small-Group Zoom Classes
Are there any materials or textbooks provided in the live Zoom classes?
Yes, there is a printable workbook provided.
Are the Zoom classes interactive?
Yes, the student will be engaged and involved throughout the class.
When does enrolment for the Zoom classes begin?
There will be different enrolment times, depending on when the classes begin. Please check here for the various dates and times offered.
What is the difference between the video package and the Zoom classes?
The video package is for the student to do on their own time and as many times as they wish. The Zoom classes will be live, scheduled classes, with a group of six students maximum.
Can you evaluate my child before I put them in your program?
It will not be a full evaluation but we can discuss and I can do a FREE 15 minutes consultation to see ‘about’ where they are at.
About Private Tutoring
How are private lessons conducted?
Private lessons are conducted live online via Zoom. Each session is personalized to your child’s reading, writing, grammar, or homework needs. You’ll receive a link for your scheduled session and can join from anywhere in the world.
What if my child has dyslexia or learning challenges?
Madame Karine specializes in working with students who have dyslexia or other learning differences. In these cases, tutoring is tailored to the child’s unique needs, using structured routines, repetition, and individualized support to help them make progress.
Do you offer homework help?
Yes. In addition to reading and writing instruction, private tutoring sessions include support with French homework, practice of grammar or vocabulary, and even help with elementary-level math where needed.
Technical & Payment Questions
How do I access my course?
After purchasing the course or tutoring plan, you’ll receive login instructions for the member portal. For the video course: go to the “Courses” tab in your dashboard. For private tutoring: login and access your booked session via the “My Lessons” or “Subscriptions” area.
What payment methods are accepted?
I accept major credit cards and secure online payment methods via Wix’s checkout system. (You may pay via Stripe or PayPal depending on your region.)
Can I get a refund if we change our mind?
Refund requests are considered on a case-by-case basis. Since the video course gives instant access to all lessons, refunds after full access is granted may not be available. For tutoring plans, please contact Madame Karine promptly if you change your mind and we will consider the situation.
