There are tremendous advantages to being bilingual. So, it’s up to us, parents and teachers, to provide children the opportunity to learn a second language. If you want to teach kids Spanish, we are here to help! Principals and school staff often reach out to SarahsSpanishSchool.com for full-year elementary and middle school Spanish Immersion classes.
Here, you’ll find information about how to teach kids Spanish, either as a parent or an educator. You’ll also find resources to make the job easier.
Everything on Spanish Playground is to teach kids Spanish, so explore a little. If you’re looking for specific activities, use the top menu to find free Spanish printables, songs, videos, books and games.
Reasons to Teach Kids Spanish
Not sure where embarking on a language learning adventure could lead? Or perhaps you know someone who needs a gentle push to take the plunge into teaching kids Spanish.
Start here to explore: Begin with understanding these 7 Things That Could Happen If Your Child Learns Spanish, and then consider the 10 Worst Reasons for Not Teaching Your Child Spanish.
Discover the 9 Hidden Advantages of Being Bilingual in our competitive academic system. And if you encounter skepticism about your decision, here are some smart responses to Why Are You Teaching Your Children Spanish?
For recent research supporting the benefits of language learning, check out the Top Language News Stories. Additionally, the British Council offers an article on how young children learn languages most effectively.
How to Teach Your Child Spanish
Teaching kids Spanish isn’t just about wanting to do it; knowing how to begin is key, and it’s more challenging than it may seem! However, don’t fret. While it requires time and effort, teaching your child Spanish is entirely achievable and incredibly rewarding.
Getting Started
First, familiarize yourself with these 5 Language Learning Concepts You Need to Understand to Raise a Bilingual Child.
Next, if you’re eager to begin immediately, explore 5 Surprisingly Simple Ways to Teach Your Child Spanish.
How to Make Teaching Kids Spanish Work
If you’re already teaching kids Spanish, you understand the process is demanding. To prepare effectively and plan ahead, ask yourself these 15 Questions to Prepare for a Year of Spanish Learning.
Also, discover ways to harness your superpowers in Raising Bilingual Kids: Printable Superhero Posters and don’t miss Teaching Kids Spanish: Reminders for the Hard Days.
Working with Spanish Teachers
If your child is fortunate to participate in a Spanish program, review 10 Things Spanish Teachers Want Parents to Know. Additionally, read about Supporting Spanish Learners: Dos and Don’ts for Parents.
Moreover, as you teach kids Spanish, both parents and teachers should embody these 5 Attitudes to Model for Spanish Learners.
Resources to Teach Kids Spanish At Home
You’ll need a structured plan and support to raise a bilingual child. One of our favorite guides is by Adam Beck, which you can read about here: Raising Bilingual Children: How To Succeed
For specific resources, Spanish Playground is packed with videos, songs, readings, and games for teaching kids Spanish. Navigate the top menu and explore these ideas to get started.
Begin by printing this list of phrases: 61 Common Spanish Phrases to Use With Kids: A Printable List
Then, delve into Montessori Treasure Baskets for Language Learning for younger children, or explore 5 Creative Ways to Learn Spanish on Your Phone.
Incorporating Spanish into everyday play is crucial, so explore Play in Spanish, a vocabulary resource for parents and teachers. Also, read 5 Tips for Enhancing Language Development through Conversation.
These 21 Ideas for Adding Spanish to Bedtime will offer additional suggestions for integrating language learning into your daily routine.
If religion plays a role in your family or school life, consider these Spanish Prayers for Kids at Mealtime and Bedtime as part of your daily practice.
Homeschool Spanish
If you homeschool, you’ll find numerous free activities for your Spanish lessons on Spanish Playground. Additionally, Spanish at Home: Strategies and Lesson Plan Template will assist you in structuring learning.
If you’re working with multiple children, Homeschooling Spanish for Multiple Children provides strategies for managing different age groups simultaneously.
Teaching Spanish to Preschoolers
Preschool is an ideal time to introduce Spanish to children. Learn about the 10 key components of a preschool Spanish lesson to understand how young learners engage. Also, explore our 10 Favorite Spanish Preschool Activities.
Our recommended app for preschoolers is the Canticos Spanish app for kids, a fully bilingual resource featuring award-winning videos, songs, books, and games. It’s an excellent tool for preschoolers to learn Spanish and a valuable resource for teachers to recommend to parents.
Spanish Curriculum for Kids
If you’re an educator or homeschooling parent, you may be seeking a structured Spanish curriculum. Read our Spanish curriculum reviews here.
Additionally, explore this article on Comprehensible Input: Essential CI Tools for insights into creating communicative, comprehensible classrooms.
Teaching Spanish to Elementary Students
Teaching Spanish to elementary students requires ample input, and Spanish Playground offers numerous free activities for your classes. Explore the top menu for specific materials.
Also, read 5 Things You’re Not Doing Enough With Spanish Learners and Spanish Listening Activities You’re Not Doing (But Should Be) for innovative ideas to actively engage children with the language.
Discover these 7 Elementary Spanish Blogs You Should Know About for additional strategies and materials for teaching Spanish to kids.
Spanish learners come from diverse backgrounds, making it essential to support all aspects of their language skills. Explore 5 Ways Teachers Can Support a Home Language for ideas on building upon home language and culture.
The terminology in language education can be overwhelming, so download this Language Education Terms: A Glossary for a handy reference, especially useful for parents or teachers new to the field.
Finally, for a fun perspective on Spanish grammar, check out 10 Life Lessons Learned from Spanish Grammar.
Teaching Spanish to children, whether as a parent or teacher, is a joyful endeavor. It invites open minds and playful learning. Enjoy every moment of the process, and please let us know how we can assist you!
Conclusion
Teaching Spanish to children, whether as a parent or a teacher, is an incredibly rewarding journey. It requires patience, dedication, and creativity, but the benefits are well worth the effort. By leveraging a variety of resources, tapping into expert guidance, and staying committed to the process, you can successfully raise bilingual children who are equipped with valuable language skills. Embrace the joys and challenges of this adventure, and remember that every step you take brings your child closer to becoming proficient in Spanish. Enjoy the experience, and don’t hesitate to seek support and inspiration from the wealth of materials available to you. Happy teaching!
