Many families choose Greek lessons at Carousel of Languages in order to deepen their child’s connection to family heritage. But there are so many wonderful reasons to introduce your young child to the Greek language!
Widely considered the "cradle of western civilization" and "birthplace of democracy," Greece has had enormous influence on European and American language and culture, and modern societies globally. The classical era’s contributions in math (especially geometry), science (particularly astronomy), theater, literature, philosophy, law. government, art, architecture, athletics, and medicine changed history and still shape how we live and learn today. The ancient Greek scholars emphasized the importance of logic, reason, inquiry, and observation as the basis of knowledge and wisdom.
Greek provided the foundation for the Roman alphabet, and an estimated 30% of words in the English language can be traced to Greek. Today, Greek is spoken by 20 million people worldwide (primarily in Greece and Crete), including 14 million native speakers.
A foundation in Greek language study is a strong choice for students in almost any discipline. It also makes a wonderful choice for families who like to travel, as Greece is a very popular tourist destination that truly has something for everyone. Your little history buff, mythology lover, or budding archaeologist will be thrilled to explore Greece’s 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites—see the Parthenon in the Acropolis in Athens, the Temple of Poseidon, and Delos, a small rocky island in the middle of the Aegean Sea, that was a religious and trade center, honored by the ancient Greeks as “the most sacred of all islands” (Callimachus, 3rd century BC), birthplace of Apollo (Sun God) his twin sister Artemis (Moon goddess).
Enjoy Delicious cuisine—olives and olive oil, grilled meats, fresh fish, feta, souvlaki, moussaka, dolmades, calamari, loukoumades (Greek donuts). Soak up some rays on stunning beaches (white, red, gold, or black sand!) in perfect weather, take a dip in the sparkling blue, blue Aegean Sea, bathe in the healing waters of the many natural hot springs, watch famously eye-popping sunsets in the islands, indulge in some nightlife in Mykonos, or enjoy the romance of Santorini or Corfu. Greece is known for its friendly, hospitable people and warm welcome for travelers.
You don’t even have to get on a plane! Start your journey through Greek history right here in New York City by visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art, home to 30,000 Ancient Greek and Roman art and archeological treasures.
Come learn Greek with us at Carousel of Languages!
