Learning a language like Spanish involves so much more than simply memorizing vocabulary words and grammar rules.
Communication is key in learning a language! When students begin to learn a language, they should be able to understand and be understood.
Not only that but culture should be consistently intertwined together with learning a language. How can students learn a language without learning about culture too?
If you’re looking for ways to enhance your students’ or your children’s current learning language journey, create an engaging experience that’s clear and easy to understand whilst also being fun and effective!
Immersing Students in Spanish
For students to acquire a language, immersion is a necessity! At Sarah’s Spanish School, each Spanish lesson is designed with immersion in mind.
We structure our Spanish curriculum around comprehensible input—language that students can understand—in a way that’s enjoyable, meaningful, and relevant. We use a diverse array of learning activities, from teacher-led lessons to music, stories, games, and much more!
Here are some ways to incorporate immersion into your school program or home:
Music and Songs
One of the most enjoyable ways for kids to learn Spanish is through music and songs. Incorporating catchy tunes and playful lyrics can make language acquisition fun and engaging. There are several kid-friendly songs for students to learn with. Think of some popular songs you were taught as a kid, for example, Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes. Why not teach students the Spanish words for body parts through this song?!
Reading and Stories
Reading is a skill that offers lifelong benefits and should be a part of daily routines. Spanish books for kids significantly enhance a child’s language learning experience in all content areas. At Sarah’s Spanish School, we integrate countless stories into our lessons that students find relevant and enjoyable, like The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Charlotte’s Web. There are numerous bilingual books and stories available for your students online for extracurricular reading or for homeschooled students. Ensure that the resources you choose include graphics to support comprehension and, if read aloud, are at a pace suitable for your students or children.
Games
Games make learning a language fun and engaging as they help students to participate more, understand the culture, and remember Spanish words and phrases better. When kids learn to speak Spanish, repetition is important. Games you could integrate when teaching kids Spanish are Memory Matching, Bingo, Charades, and Story Cubes. These Spanish games are designed to fit into school curriculums and help students learn Spanish in a creative, enjoyable way.
Culture
You may not realize it, but where you live likely has so much culture that your students and children can benefit from! There are lots of different ways you can integrate Spanish language skills and cultural activities:
- Local restaurants
- Museums
- Activities
- Cultural centres
- Celebrations
- Events
Once you’ve decided on a location or activity, enhance the experience by conducting some research beforehand. For example:
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If you’re planning to visit a Mexican restaurant, why not watch online Spanish videos about food in Mexico before going?
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If you’re attending Spanish festivals and events like Día de los Muertos, consider watching the hit movie “Coco” to immerse yourself and your students in the culture.
There are several ways to combine real-world experiences with research so that your students and children can better understand and appreciate the rich culture that surrounds them!
Spanish Learning for Kids FAQs
How can I find local cultural events?
If you haven’t read your local newspaper in some time, we recommend starting there! It has relevant information with the most up-to-date information about events and activities that may be happening in your area.
Where can I find bilingual books?
Local bookstores likely have several options that you can buy, and your library probably has options to choose from as well! Libraries tend to provide activities and events for young children that you can also participate in!
What if I want my students to take classes online?
You’ve come to the right place! Sarah’s Spanish School offers flexible classes and curriculums that meet your needs! Whether you need a virtual live teacher, an asynchronous curriculum, or a homeschool curriculum/program for students, we have several options that you can choose from!
Learning Spanish with Sarah’s Spanish School
https://www.sarahsspanishschool.com/lets-talk/curricuBy integrating culture and immersion into young children’s language learning routine, you can create a more holistic and enriching experience for them. This allows them to not only learn the language but also embrace the culture it represents.
Ready to take the next step and have your child learn Spanish?
For School Administrators: Ready to bring a world-class Spanish program to your school? Request more information or book a discovery call with us today.
For Parents and Families: Eager to give your child the gift of bilingualism? Sign up for our 30-day free trial and start your family’s Spanish adventure now. Join us, and let’s make learning Spanish an unforgettable experience for your young learners!
Explore the joy of Spanish learning for kids! Contact us today and open a world of cultural adventures for your children.
