Using sources such as personal observation, personal communication, and published literature, this essay identifies issues that have accounted for Foreign Languages in Elementary Schools (FLES) programs' failure to survive. Seven essential elements of a successful foreign language program in the elementary school are identified and discussed: (1) setting realistic and appropriate goals and objectives and planning a program to meet them; (2) locating and retaining qualified teachers; (3) using age-appropriate and sound foreign language pedagogy; (4) adopted content based instruction as a foundation for relevance to the overall school program; (5) articulating FLES with middle and high school foreign language programs; (6) performing frequent student assessment and periodic program evaluation; and (7) cultivating parent and community awareness and support. The research draws on personal observation, personal communication, and published literature. Contains 78 references. (MSE)