Nasma X Strom 

We’re beyond excited to bring our signature Levantine Arabic classes for kids and adults to Greenpoint—this time, in collaboration with Storm and Candy!

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Storm and Candy is a Lebanese-owned, independent bookstore serving as a vibrant cultural hub and community event space. STORM curates a rich collection of art & design publications, children’s books, and poetry, with a special focus on ecological practices and creatives from the SWANA (South West Asia North Africa) region.

Now, in this inspiring space, we’re bringing the same high-quality Levantine Arabic classes that our students love in Astoria, Downtown Brooklyn, and Manhattan—same engaging curriculum, same immersive teaching style, and the same passion for language and culture!

Join us in Greenpoint and let’s keep our heritage alive—one conversation at a time!

 

Check Out Our Current Semester at Storm Below!

Levantine Arabic Kids Classes

Course Description:

Elementary-Age Arabic Class

Our elementary-age class runs for 75 minutes on 8 Sundays, offering an engaging and immersive Arabic learning experience. Students in groups of 5 will meet at our Astoria location:

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📍 Storm
118 Norman ave
Brooklyn 11222

Greenpoint

Objectives

To introduce children to the Arabic language and culture through a fun, Montessori-inspired curriculum that nurtures curiosity, independence, and collaboration. Our goal is to build a foundation in Arabic vocabulary, foster conversational skills, and spark a lifelong connection to their heritage.

Our goals are to:

  • Enhance children’s native language skills and deepen their knowledge of Levantine culture.
  • Provide a safe and encouraging environment for making new friends.
  • Foster creativity and artistic expression.
  • Promote physical health and well-being through engaging activities.

We believe this experience will be a valuable opportunity for children to enjoy learning their mother tongue language.

Curriculum Highlights

  • Theme-Based Vocabulary: Learn Arabic words related to topics like family, animals, food, and everyday life.
  • Simple Nouns and Verbs: Practice using foundational vocabulary in practical ways.
  • Role-Play Conversations: Guided activities to encourage real-life Arabic dialogue.
  • Introduction to Letters: Explore the Arabic alphabet through hands-on activities and visuals.
  • Montessori Approach: Focused on child-led exploration with interactive and tactile learning tools to enhance retention and understanding.

Join us in a welcoming and nurturing environment where kids will connect with their roots, build confidence, and learn Arabic through engaging and creative activities.

Limited spots available—register now! Accepting only 8 students!

     

     

    Darine

    My name is Darine Lahoud Safi, an experienced educator passionate about supporting children and families. Born and raised in Lebanon, I have lived in NYC for 23 years with my husband and 3 amazing kids.

    With over a decade of experience in the public school system, I have had the privilege of assisting both students and parents, providing essential support in administrative tasks, education, and language translation.

    My commitment to education and community service is deeply rooted in my values. As a certified Learning Leader, I have volunteered in public schools to mentor and support students in their education. Additionally, I have been an active parishioner at Our Lady of Lebanon, where I served as President of the Confraternity for five years, leading initiatives that strengthened our community.

    With a strong background in education, leadership, and multilingual communication, I am dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for children and their families.

    Price:  $464
    Duration:  75 minutes
    Lectures: Darine
    Group:  8 students 
    Dates: 
    • March: 23, 30
    • April: 6, 27
    • May: 4, 18
    • June: 1, 8
    Time:  11- 12:15pm

    Levantine Arabic Adult Classes

    Course Description:

    In our Beginner Arabic group conversation classes, we will focus on conversing with:

    • Greetings & Replies
    • Pleases & Thank yous
    • Adjectives & Nouns
    • Pseudo Verbs
    • Countries & Nationalities
    • Simple present tense
    • Present continuous and
    • Future tenses

    This course is ideal for anyone that has no Arabic background as well as someone who is looking to improve their conversational skills. With these classes, you will learn the basics of the Arabic language, learn how to introduce yourself and greet others; practice talking about your work, daily routines, days of the week; and food related vocabulary. Each week, we will cover a theme, and we will practice through communicative activities. Group activities, role play, debates, listening activities, and relaxed conversations.
    All word-learning and required course material will be provided prior to the sessions. By the end of this level, you will have a good grasp of the Arabic language. You will learn new and sophisticated vocabulary, and build confidence on using verbs in conversations. This class will cover materials from Book 1—Ya Ahla w Sahla and Book 2—Shu Fi ma Fi. Please check our Adult textbooks available for you. You are welcome to buy the textbooks but materials and words taught in class will be provided. 

    Details:

    The course is 14 weeks long. The class is 75 minutes taking place once a week on Tuesday evenings at 7pm. You will get access to a Whatsapp group where you can ask and get answers to questions you may have. Material and vocabulary will be provided prior to the course. 

    Thematic Lessons: Each week focuses on a specific theme. The instructor explains the lesson for about 15 minutes, followed by interactive exercises, role-plays, translation practice, and open Q&A sessions.

    In this course, we don’t read or write—our focus is entirely on building confidence and fostering natural conversation in Levantine Arabic.

    On completion of the program, you will:

    • Be able to conjugate verbs in the present, future, and present-continuous tenses.
    • Be able to introduce yourself, speak about your work, daily routine, order food from a restaurant, or a supermarket, and a lot more using the Levantine dialect!

     

    Cynthia

    I am Cynthia, a native Arabic speaker from Lebanon and an educator with a deep passion for teaching and mentoring adults.

    With a background in mathematics instruction and adult education, I bring years of experience in creating engaging, interactive learning environments that foster confidence and practical skill-building. Before moving to the U.S., I worked as a math instructor in Lebanon, guiding students in mastering complex concepts and applying them to real-world scenarios. For over five years, I also mentored and organized professional development workshops, strengthening my ability to connect with adults and support their learning journey.

    Since arriving in New York, I have continued working closely with adults, combining my teaching expertise with a personalized, student-centered approach. Currently, I serve as a Program Assistant at the Consulate General of Canada in New York, where I coordinate events and manage logistics. Despite my administrative role, my true passion lies in education and empowerment—whether through leading workshops, facilitating discussions, or helping individuals achieve their learning goals. I am committed to making a meaningful impact, ensuring that every student I work with feels supported, encouraged, and inspired to grow.

    Price:  $728
    Duration:  75 minutes
    Lectures: Cynthia
    Group:  12 students 
    Dates: 
    • March: 25
    • April: 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
    • May: 6, 13, 20, 27
    • June: 3, 10, 17, 24
    Time:  7:00 to 8:15pm

    Nasma of NY is excited to bring our signature Levantine Arabic classes to Greenpoint, Brooklyn, in collaboration with Storms and Candy! Our immersive, conversation-based approach helps both kids and adults build confidence in speaking Arabic naturally.

    Kids (Ages 4-12): Engaging, play-based learning with songs, storytelling, and fun activities.
    Adults: Practical, real-world conversations with a focus on fluency.
    📍 Location: Storms and Candy, Greenpoint, Brooklyn

    Join our vibrant Arabic learning community in a unique cultural space! Questions? Don’t hesistate to reach out carol@nasmaofny.com and start speaking Levantine Arabic with ease.