The guide is designed to give parents basic information about the French second language (FSL) program of Alberta (Canada) elementary and secondary schools, and to answer commonly-asked questions. Sections address these topics: the benefits of second language learning; choosing French as a second language; how the FSL program is structured; how much French can be learned in FSL; assurance of program quality; the parent's role in supporting the child in FSL; and common questions about the age at which a child should begin language study, considerations for the child who already knows some FSL, the difference between FSL and French immersion, starting a new program, changing schools, teacher qualifications, university admission requirements, earning high school credits with French learned through grade 9, and FSL courses available in high school. (MSE)