Salut !
Whether you’re in your 50s, 60s, or 70s, you’ve probably asked yourself, “Am I too old to learn French?” Well, I hate to disappoint you, but the answer is a resounding NO!
Let’s see how you can break free from this stereotype and begin learning real, everyday spoken French.
- Click here to get my weekly newsletter. – Join my mailing list! You’ll find weekly insights into learning French, cultural explorations and tips from my everyday life. It’s all free of course!
Watch the full video lesson on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Commeunefrancaise
1) Why Learning French Later in Life Is Amazing
Learning French isn’t just about verbs and grammar. It’s about unlocking experiences that perfectly align with where you are in life right now. Imagine confidently ordering “un café crème” at a hidden Parisian café, or chatting with a local winemaker about their family’s traditional techniques. These aren’t just travel moments; they’re rich experiences that your younger self might not have fully appreciated.
Better yet, learning French now is nothing like learning it in school. You’re not doing it for a grade anymore – you’re doing it because you want to. You can choose your teachers, learn at your own pace, and use modern, effective learning techniques that make old textbook methods look outdated. (Check out the book “Learning How to Learn” by Barbara Oakley, (TEDx talk) for some great tips!)
As a mature learner, you also get an unexpected bonus: language learning keeps your brain active and younger, especially your memory. While others are doing Sudoku to stay sharp, you’ll be catching nuances in classic French movies without subtitles!
2) Practical Ways to Get Started
A) Embrace Large-Print Materials
– Use large-print French-English dictionaries
– Try large-print editions of French classics
– Use e-readers or tablets to adjust text size
– Take advantage of built-in bilingual dictionaries
B) Audio Learning
– Try apps like Duolingo or Babbel
– Listen to podcasts like “Coffee Break French“
– Use traditional audio CDs
– Follow my weekly free lessons
C) One-on-One Tutoring
– Check local Alliance Française chapters
– Look for community center tutoring
– Try online platforms like iTalki
– Join our French Conversation Club at Comme Une Française
D) Focus on Practical Conversation
– Learn everyday phrases
– Practice real-life scenarios
– Join conversation groups
– Focus on useful, practical French
3) The Wisdom Advantage
Your life experience is your secret weapon in learning French. You’re not starting from scratch – you’re building on decades of learning and living. Use your passions! If you love cooking, start with French recipes. If you enjoy films, begin with French cinema.
Try this simple exercise: tell your own stories in French. Start small:
“Quand j’étais enfant, j’adorais faire du vélo. J’ai appris à faire du vélo pendant les vacances d’été.”
(= When I was a child, I loved cycling. I learned how to ride a bike during summer holidays.)
4) Building Your French Community
Learning with others makes everything more enjoyable and effective. Consider:
– Starting a “French Friday” group
– Joining local French cultural events
– Participating in virtual museum tours
– Connecting with other learners online
Remember, every bit of exposure counts – whether it’s chatting with fellow learners, watching French movies, or trying French recipes.
5) Your French Learning Mantras
Practice these encouraging French phrases:
1. “J’adore apprendre de nouvelles choses.” (I love learning new things)
2. “Je peux apprendre à n’importe quel âge.” (I can learn at any age)
3. “Les défis sont stimulants.” (Challenges are stimulating)
4. “J’ai hâte d’apprendre le français!” (I can’t wait to learn French)
5. “Chaque jour, je m’améliore un peu plus.” (Every day, I improve a little more)
Whether you’re just starting or continuing your French journey, remember: it’s never too late to begin. Each step forward, no matter how small, is a victory worth celebrating.
Allez, à plus!
Want more tips and resources? Subscribe to my newsletter for essential French learning materials!
Or check out your next lesson, on: “The Management of Learning French” for French fluency practice!
or is it “où” …”où je ne peux pas…”?
hah! ils arrivent des jours quand je ne peux pas me rappeler mon nom. (age 75)
Vous avez raison. Et j’apprécie que vous avez nommé d’autres applications qui sont très utiles. Pour la plupart de gens, à mon avis, c’est bon d’avoir plus d’un type d’apprentisage.