Learning a new language during the preschool years happens alongside many other important areas of development. Children are learning how to express themselves, listen to others, build relationships, and make sense of an increasingly complex world. Having an educator who understands how those pieces work together can bring valuable insight to the classroom.
Lyza Oumaziz brings that perspective to Au Beau Séjour through a background that combines speech therapy, educational sciences, and years of teaching French. Originally from Algeria, she spent six years working as a speech therapist while also teaching at a French school before continuing her career in early childhood education in the United States. Today, she brings that experience to the ABS classroom, where she supports each child’s linguistic, social, and emotional development while continuing to learn from the children she teaches.
“I want children to feel respected, supported, and comfortable being themselves.”
– Lyza Oumaziz
What first drew you to working with children and studying Educational Sciences and Speech Therapy?
“I have always enjoyed being around children and helping them learn. When I was in Algeria, I became very interested in how children communicate and develop language. That is one of the reasons I chose to study Educational Sciences and Speech Therapy. After getting my degree, I had the opportunity to work in a clinic and also in a private school. These experiences made me realize how much I enjoy helping children grow, communicate, and become more confident.”
How did your experiences growing up in Algeria shape the educator you are today?
“Growing up in Algeria had a big influence on me. Family, education, respect, and community are very important in our culture. I also grew up around different languages, especially Kabyle, Arabic, and French. This helped me understand from a young age that children can learn and communicate in different ways. Today, I try to bring these values into my classroom. I want children to feel respected, supported, and comfortable being themselves.”
What fascinates you most about the way preschool-aged children acquire language?
“With my background in speech therapy, language development has always been very interesting to me. What fascinates me most is how naturally young children learn. They learn so much just by listening, playing, singing, repeating words, and interacting with other people. Sometimes a child may understand much more than they can say. Then, little by little, you see their vocabulary grow and their confidence grow too. It is really rewarding to watch.”
How would you describe your teaching philosophy?
“My teaching philosophy is that every child is different and learns at their own pace. I believe children learn best when they feel safe, happy, and supported. At the preschool age, learning should also be fun and active. I like to use play, songs, stories, art, movement, and hands-on activities. I also believe it is important to encourage children to be independent and to give them the confidence to try things by themselves.”
Having lived and taught in both Algeria and the United States, have you noticed differences in how the two cultures approach early childhood education?
“Yes, I have noticed some differences. From my experience, education in Algeria can be a little more structured and teacher-directed. Here in the United States, especially in preschool, I see more focus on learning through play, exploration, independence, and allowing children to make choices.
How would you describe the community among the teachers, children, and families at Au Beau Séjour?
“I would describe it as a warm and supportive community. There is a strong connection between the teachers, the children, and the families. I think communication with families is very important because we are working together for the child. I also really appreciate the teamwork between the teachers. When teachers and families communicate and support each other, the children feel more secure and comfortable at school.”
What about the school’s educational philosophy particularly connects with your own approach to teaching?
“What connects with me the most is the idea of educating the whole child. Preschool is not only about learning letters, numbers, or a new language. It is also about learning how to communicate, express emotions, make friends, become independent, and feel confident.
I also really connect with the school’s French environment. As a French teacher, I love seeing children learn French naturally through their everyday routines, songs, stories, activities, and conversations.”
If you could reassure a parent who is nervous about sending their child to preschool for the first time, what would you tell them?
“I would tell them that it is completely normal to feel nervous. Starting preschool is a big step for the child, but also for the parents. Some children adjust very quickly, while others need a little more time, and both are okay.
I would tell them that we are here to support their child, comfort them, and help them feel safe. We also want parents to communicate with us and ask questions. Little by little, children start to understand the routine, make friends, trust their teachers, and enjoy coming to school. Seeing that progress is one of the most beautiful parts of our job.”
If you’d like to learn more about our staff and school, schedule a tour and see how Au Beau Séjour can work for you and your family.
