Teaching Italian language and culture to kids (and adults!) of any level, Speakitaly NYC makes learning Italian entertaining through a wide range of fun, hands-on activities. Read on for our interview with CEO and Founder Raffaella Galliani.
What is your background? What inspired the opening of SpeakItaly NYC?
I came from Italy when I was 17 to participate in a student exchange. I fell in love with the US and I started to come every other year until I randomly bumped into the person who is now my husband at the NYC Halloween Parade in 2006. I was lucky enough to find a sponsor to stay and I officially started my career as a language instructor. I started SpeakItaly 10 years later in a small office so I could host private classes. Within a few months, word spread to Italians and Italian families and we quickly grew. We now have two 1500 square foot spaces; one in Manhattand and one in Brooklyn.
What is a SpeakItaly NYC class like?
Our lessons are stimulating and entertaining; children end up learning without even realizing it. They are encouraged to experience the language through a wide range of fun activities which means that they will start speaking and using Italian in a very natural way.
How do the lessons differ from age group to age group?
Each age group has different skills and abilities to strengthen and our classes around those skills. We always make sure the the children are comfortable during our activities and we always offer alternatives. We believe every child should be pushed to try, but at the same time, it’s best to honor their boundaries and encourage each child's unique qualities.
Which classes are most popular? What activities are the kids' favorites?
The most popular classes are our Italian Language Classes and our Cooking Classes for toddlers and kids ages 4 and up.
In your opinion, why is it important for kids to learn a second language?
I personally think that learning a second language at a young age is important because the brain of a little child is in its most flexible stage of development. I tell parents to imagine a sponge to explain how important it is to start early. I also believe that most kids who learn a second language will improve their thinking and listening skills, memory, and concentration. I think every child should have the opportunity to learn a second language.
Where are your classes located? What is next for SpeakItaly NYC?
We have two locations, one in Manhattan and one in Brooklyn. The DUMBO location only opened in September. It is a new, modern space which we designed with our love for Italy. I will say this location perfectly matches the lifestyle of this beautiful neighborhood. Perhaps in the future I will be opening another branch, but we are nurturing this wonderful new location.
What is your favorite aspect of running the business? Least favorite aspect?
As a teacher and Children Program Coordinator of SpeakItaly NYC, I personally love seeing how children feel in our environment. Some parents call me a friend, some call me aunt, some call me by a nickname. Students are always happy in our classes, and I think the magic of SpeakItaly is how everyone feels like they are part of a big family.
How do you balance your time between family and work life?
I have to say that I haven’t been too great at this. My focus is SpeakItaly NYC right now and my husband has been a little put on the side, but I’m sure he will be able to recover from having more freedom than before. Hahah!
What do you wish more people knew about SpeakItaly NYC?
That we are a wonderful community of 300+ wonderful people!
Do you have a favorite Italian word or phrase?
La vita è bella! Very simple, but very accurate. I have had tough moments in life, especially during the early days of Covid, but we were able to make it, bloom, and come back stronger!
Click HERE to register for a class or drop-in event. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook!
Locations:
- DUMBO: 110 York Street, 5th floor
- Manhattan: 49 West 28th street, 3rd Floor
Testimonials:
- "My little nephew attended his first class last week and loved it. The teacher was very patient and so caring. The space is stunning and we are happy Speakitaly arrived in the neighborhood. Viva l'Italia!" –Armando V.
- "Speakitaly has been the highlight of my two sons last few months. Valentina has been amazing, my boys have loved the camp classes and private lessons. In May, my 6 and 4 year old didn't know how to say a single word in Italian, both are counting to 50, know the days of the week, months of the year and so much more only two months later. They love the interactions with Valentina and Nina and the various other students in the camp sessions. Valentina is warm, kind and responsive to both their needs and any questions I have. She replies within short amount of times and is so generous with her time. It has truly been a fantastic find and we are hooked." –Eric S.
- "This was AMAZING! Loved this. Easy to follow along and very fun or so my 7-year-old thought! She says she loved the cooking class with today's teacher...they made a pasta salad which was so good, we ended up having it for lunch :) A great cultural experience for kids." –Samoya O.
- "My kids (7 and 4) had a lot of fun making apple biscottis and leaf arts! We enjoyed the biscottis and 3 hours of freedom :)" –Tingting Z.
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