How to Introduce Spanish To Toddlers
Teaching toddlers multiple languages opens their mind to connect with other cultures and gives them a competitive edge in future endeavors. Today it is important to know multiple languages (especially Spanish in the United States) in business settings, and in jobs such as nursing or customer service as well. It is easier for children to learn foreign language at a young age, as The Washington Post noted in a 2009 article, as their brains are like sponges at this stage in development, absorbing all the information around them. Teaching even basic phrases at this age is a gateway into more complex verb conjugations. Soon, your child may be able to form sentences and hold conversations in Spanish while still quite young. Over time your child will become fluent in Spanish if lessons continue.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Use songs to teach your children Spanish. For example, sing "Happy Birthday" as "Feliz Cumpleaños a Ti" or share "Feliz Navidad" at Christmas time. Sing your toddler the Spanish alphabet song to teach the letters. These songs contain common phrases used in Spanish. Songs are an effective way to teach because of the repetition and melody.
-
2
Introduce Spanish to your toddler through the television. Language programs like "Muzzy" are aimed at teaching foreign language to small children. Some broader educational shows, like "Dora the Explorer," also incorporate Spanish. Children will pick up phrases to use in day-to-day life.
-
-
3
Teach your children small phrases or words every day. When they have to go to the bathroom, use the word baño instead of bathroom. Ask children to identify items by asking the Spanish word instead of English. For example, ask them about "el gato" instead of "the cat" or "huevos" in place of "eggs." Ask children to use Spanish words when asking for food or different items they want.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Help and guide children in reading and pronouncing Spanish words
Always give positive reinforcement to Toddlers.
Be patient and enjoy the journey. Keep the enthusiasm.
Create a Fun Environment. Remember ... there's a reason we call it play!
