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Learning Spanish - Le Tutor

By Tiffiny
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EXPERT KEY POINTS

Mia Wenjens comment about regular exposure really stood out. If you are a non native parent you have to find ways to provide regular and consistent exposure to Spanish so that you kids develop an ear for the language. Secondly, you have to make it fun or they are going to lose interest and resent the language and study time.

Matt Miller reminds us that in the real world there are no grammar tests. As children learning our own native language we are not tested or told the rules. We mimic other native speakers. Having opportunities to practice the language are essential to the success of any language learner. Find a playgroup, church group, babysitter, tutor, friends, or club that can offer opportunities for you kids to practice the language.

Ann Morris commented on children of native parents who are learning the language in a country outside of their own. They often still have to learn the formal language thought they have a proficient level of fluency.

Joshua Berman recommends overcoming the lack of exposure opportunities with immersion experiences. Although this may not be practical for younger children if they have a chance to stay with family or a friend for a few months it can be an invaluable experience. Kids who are learning Spanish can go from struggling to fluent in a single summer abroad. That is why maintaining regular exposure while they are young is important as a preparation for an immersion Spanish experience. Those who get to live or study abroad will see exponential fluency growth.

Sara Elizabeth Cottrell made a really good point about teaching children before they start going to school, this is because learning a language requires a different approach. Children who are taught to memorize theorems and historical dates at school can have a hard time learning a foreign language later on.

Jennifer Brunk suggests having a plan. Although, it doesnt have to be rigid having planned times and materials for them to study is extremely important. If a family is non native speakers it is easy to get out the routine of regular Spanish practice. It is natural for to revert to English or get distracted by other activities. Having a plan will help you to maintain regular exposure to Spanish.

OUR ADVICE

When should kids begin to learn Spanish as a second language and why?

It is always beneficial to start as young as possible but be reasonable. When they are infants play Spanish children's songs for them. You dont have to be religious about lesson time when they are very young. When they reach 1-2 is when you should start more regular and consistent lessons. For families that are non native speakers you have have a long term approach to your kids Spanish lessons unless you have access to native speakers on a daily basis.This will prepare for when they get older and can be committed to a more regular study. If they get the opportunity immersion experiences will sky rocket their fluency. Even if you did not start at a young age it is never too late to start. Many of us have learned second languages as adults.

What is the biggest challenge for children learning Spanish as a second language and how do you overcome it?

The two biggest challenges are providing regular exposure to Spanish and keeping your children interested. In order to do this I recommend keeping their lessons, media, and classes fun. Make it so they enjoy the language and so that it isnt a chore. If you are a native speaker this is not an issue because it is natural for you to communicate to your children in Spanish. As non native Spanish speakers this will be a challenge. Make Spanish cool.

Can parents teach their kids to speak Spanish at home and what is the best way to do it?

Yes, of course. It helps if parents learn Spanish with their kids so that they can interact together. If that is not an option then you will have to have a plan and get help from experienced teachers when youve reached the end of your knowledge. If you are not actively learning the language at some point your kids will out learn you. You will need the help of an experienced Spanish tutor who can guide, challenge and teach them.

BONUS QUESTION

What language should my child learn?

Although this article is about Spanish well throw in a fourth question. Often times parents have an idea of what language their kids should learn. However, the language is not always ideal or practical. My number one recommendation is to have the kids learn the language they are interested in. Simply they will stay motivated to learn the language if they like it. If they are forced they will resent the language and not excel.

My second point is considering the the goal of the language. Languages that are uncommon or that have limited influence on our lives are impractical choices for a second language for kids. Unless you have family heritage or other good reasons to learn the language you should consider a language that has immediate contact with the kids.

Last consider access to learning materials. You can find materials for most languages however some can be significantly harder than others to find quality materials for especially for kids. Spanish has a plethora of kids learning materials including cartoons, books, activities and games. Mandarin Chinese or Arabic though have materials for adults but very few for kids. Even the materials for adults are few compared to languages like Spanish. Also, consider your region. If you live in an area with a large Russian population then it will be easy to find teachers but probably not as much if you live in the Southwest US.

Regardless, if you are motivated enough you will find a way and the resources needed for the language. All of this is general advice that can help you make decisions and plan more effectively. But in no way should it discourage you from learning the language you want to learn.

If you're interested in learning Spanish, our school located in Phoenix, AZ offers a free trial class to all new students. Check out our Spanish classes page.





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Learning Spanish - Le Tutor Rating: 4.5 Diposkan Oleh: Tiffiny
 

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