If you are a Spanish speaker living abroad and want your child to learn Spanish, here are some tips:

– start as early as possible: speak Spanish to your baby from birth, or as early as possible

– make it part of your routines: use Spanish regularly in your routines, from preparing breakfast, to walking to the park, to bed-time routines

– make a plan: plan games and activities to do together in Spanish, and check out our post for ideas and resources

– identify resources: find books, games and other resources that can help you along the way. (See below)

– find someone to help you: it is important for children to see that there are other families who speak Italian in their environment. Find a Spanish parent and toddler group in your area or arrange meetings with other families who speak Spanish. For older children, try to find a language class so your child can experience the language and the culture also outside the home.

– Praise your child’s success: when your child says a new word, when they talk to you in Spanish, or when they learn to read, don’t focus on the errors but praise their efforts and show them how much you enjoy speaking Spanish to them.

Want more? Check out our resources below!