How to Teach Spanish at Home: The 5 Best Apps to Learn Spanish at Home
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Are you considering teaching Spanish to your child at home?
Learning a second language can be a valuable skill…and a rewarding experience! Whether you want your child to acquire Spanish for cultural enrichment or to gain a competitive edge in the globalized world, providing them with a solid foundation in the language is essential.
Let’s explore the best practices you can use when teaching Spanish in your homeschool, and I’ll also share some of the best Spanish apps on the market that can make the language learning journey more enjoyable and effective.
Do you want your child to learn a second language or acquire it?
First, let’s tackle this important question, one that you may not have even considered yet.
“Learning” and “acquiring” may seem interchangeable, but when you’re talking about second language development they are actually pretty distinct.
I’m a prime example, sadly. I took four years of Spanish classes in high school, and while I passed every test with flying colors, put me in a conversation with a native Spanish speaker and I’m pretty useless aside from some basic vocabulary and common phrases (¿Dónde está el baño? – got that one down!).
But why is that? It’s simply because I never acquired the language.
“Learning” a new language involves a conscious effort to memorize vocabulary, grammar rules, and language structures, through formal study and instruction. Think of it in a way similar to how your kids learn math: often, the focus is on learning through deliberate practice and repetition.
While effective in some situations, if your goal is becoming proficient and fluent in a new language, this might not fully capture that essence.
Language acquisition, on the other hand, is more natural and immersive. It happens on more of a subconscious level. Think of how your kids first learned how to talk: they were exposed to it in meaningful ways, engaged in real conversations (though small at first!), and absorbed it through repetition. It wasn’t just rote memorization…they internalized the language and eventually became fluent!
Without the need for explicit grammar explanations (that came later, right?).
When you are able to engage in conversation with native speakers of a foreign language, you’re drawing from language you have acquired…not language you’ve learned.
The good news? You can foster language acquisition in your homeschool by creating a language-rich environment, and allow your child to develop authentic, confident language skills.
You never were one to “teach to the test” before. Why start with language learning?
Decide to help your kids acquire a language rather than simply learning it. It’s a much more exciting and effective way to learn a new language!
Getting familiar with the basics of second language acquisition
Before jumping right to finding the best app to learn Spanish, you’ll want to understand the basics of second language acquisition to best be able to help your kids learn.
Here are 5 best practice approaches to keep in mind:
Comprehensible input
Have you heard this phrase before? It’s possibly the secret key you’ll need to teaching language acquisition in your homeschool.
In my high school Spanish class I mentioned above, we focused quite a bit on output: being able to recite vocabulary words and important phrases, writing sentences and stories in Spanish…but research shows that input is way more important!
More specifically, comprehensible input.
Comprehensible input is language input that is understandable to the learner (even if they don’t understand every word).
It’s like a puzzle with missing pieces; you may not grasp every detail, but you can still see the big picture.
Comprehensible input enables language learners to comprehend the overall meaning of messages or conversations, allowing them to slowly piece together the linguistic puzzle.
When kids are learning Spanish, their brains need to be exposed to it in ways just above their current level of understanding, so they’re challenged to make connections and actively engage in figuring out the language’s meaning. Just like how they learned their first language!
The importance of this in language acquisition cannot be overstated. It will lay the foundation for fluency and help your kids make deep connections to the culture and people of the language they are learning.
Make it fun!
Traditional methods of teaching language are often boring, test-heavy, and even stressful. Definitely not the best way to acquire a new language (and most likely hinders it).
The affective filter theory, proposed by renowned linguist Stephen Krashen, emphasizes the role of emotions in language learning. When learners are anxious, stressed, or self-conscious, this “filter” is activated, creating a mental barrier that hampers language acquisition (and that comprehensible input I mentioned earlier).
On the other hand, when learners feel comfortable, relaxed, and motivated, the filter lowers, allowing language input to flow more freely and effectively.
It’s crucial that your Spanish lessons are fun, compelling, and engaging. Avoid stress and boredom.
If learners feel overwhelmed, embarrassed, or pressured, their ability to absorb new language will be hindered. It’s essential to recognize your kids’ emotions and tailor the learning experience to their needs.
Creating a positive and supportive language environment is key to lowering the affective filter. Encouraging a sense of curiosity, adventure, and playfulness in language learning can make all the difference.
Fun and engaging activities, like interactive games, songs, and stories, invite kids to embrace the language with excitement, reducing anxiety and boosting motivation. Additionally, celebrating small victories and providing ample opportunities for successful communication build learners’ confidence and further lowers the affective filter.
Teach through stories
Make it story-based! Why is this an essential part of guiding kids on their language learning journey?
Stories bridge the gap between language learning and real-life contexts, which helps kids apply their linguistic knowledge in authentic situations.
Stories also engage multiple facets of language acquisition, tapping into listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. As young learners follow the rhythm of storytelling, they develop their listening comprehension, honing their ability to process language in real-time. When they retell the tales, they practice their speaking and Spanish vocabulary, gaining confidence with every word. Reading stories nurtures their reading comprehension, while writing their interpretations allows them to express their creativity and language proficiency.
Teaching through stories creates a powerful emotional connection to the language, making learning a deeply personal and enjoyable experience. As learners laugh with fun characters, empathize with their challenges, and celebrate their victories, they forge an affectionate bond with the language.
Stories stir emotions, fueling enthusiasm for learning, and fostering a love for the cultures behind the language.
The silent period
The silent period is a natural part of language learning. We tend to accept it when our kids are learning their first language, but try to rush them to speak when they are learning a second language.
When you think about it, that doesn’t make much sense!
In second language acquisition, the silent period is the time when your kids will be absorbing the language silently before actively speaking it.
You might be tempted to take silence as a lack of learning, but don’t rush this! The silent period is not indicative of a lack of progress; it’s language processing at its finest.
As your kids learn a new language, they’ll be carefully storing linguistic patterns in their minds, internalizing the language at a subconscious level. As they listen to native speakers, engage in interactive activities, and begin to immerse themselves in a new language, they’re developing a deep understanding of the linguistic landscape before they ever even begin to speak it.
Respect the silent period and embrace it as an important part of your child’s language learning journey. In doing so, you’ll create a supportive and patient environment, laying groundwork for future successful language production.
Don’t worry about grammar
Grammar is the icing on the cake of learning a new language.
That means you’ve gotta have the cake first.
Think about it: how old were your kids (and how long had they been speaking English) before you began formal grammar lessons with them? Most likely, not until after they had a really solid foundation from exposure to comprehensible input.
Grammar, with its rules and complexities, can be like a maze for beginners, and navigating it too early may lead to frustration and discouragement.
Spend sufficient time exposing your kids to comprehensible input, creating a positive learning environment, and teaching through stories. And let grammar be that treasure awaiting discovery later on in the language journey, adding depth and precision to language skills that have already blossomed organically.
The best way to teach Spanish at home
When it comes to teaching Spanish at home, incorporating interactive and engaging activities is crucial. Children learn best when they are having fun!
Introduce Spanish through playful interactions, such as singing songs, playing games, and reading books in Spanish. Encourage everyday conversation practice in Spanish, and celebrate your child’s progress and efforts along the way. Additionally, incorporating technology into language learning can be highly effective, especially with the wide range of language learning apps available today.
Here are 4 tips to keep in mind when you begin your Spanish language acquisition journey with your kids in your homeschool.
Daily language learning routine
Your kids will thrive on consistent practice and exposure to the new language they are learning. A structured daily routine enhances language acquisition and fosters a sense of discipline and commitment in the learning process.
When you create a daily language learning routine in your homeschool, you’ll be setting clear expectations and reinforcing the value of language learning to your kids.
It also will help create a sense of progress and accomplishment in your kids! As they see their own growth, they’ll gain confidence and motivation to continue learning.
In your homeschool, a daily language learning routine might include a combination of structured lessons, interactive activities, and immersive experiences. Listen to podcasts in the car, use a Spanish app or program in the afternoon, and read short stories in Spanish after dinner. Your routine can and should be tailored to fit your unique schedule and preferences.
Read Spanish stories with your kids
Introducing stories in the new language to your kids can be a rewarding experience, fostering a love for language learning from a young age. As a homeschool mom, you hold the key to making storytelling an integral part of your language curriculum.
Begin building your library of language books. Start investing in a collection of books that cater to a variety of interests and reading levels. A well-stocked library of foreign language books offers a wide range of stories to explore and keeps the language learning journey exciting.
Incorporate stories into that daily routine we just talked about. Set aside a specific time each day for storytime in Spanish. It could be before bedtime, during snack breaks, or even as part of your morning routine. Consistency is key to establishing the habit!
Bring stories to life by acting out characters and using expressive gestures. Use props and visual aids when you can – make it fun!
And finally, use technology to your advantage. Incorporate digital resources, such as audiobooks, apps, or interactive e-books, to supplement traditional storytelling. These tech-savvy tools provide additional exposure to the language and enrich the learning experience.
Provide exposure to native Spanish speakers
Native speaker exposure is like a secret weapon in language learning – it brings an authentic and immersive dimension to the journey.
As a homeschooling parent, you have the power to weave native speaker experiences into your language curriculum, making the learning adventure even more captivating. So, how can you do that?
Well, consider connecting with language exchange partners, where you and your kids help them practice your native language while they assist in teaching the target language – it’s a win-win! You can also join virtual Spanish courses led by native speakers, offering a structured and interactive environment for learning.
Don’t miss out on local cultural events and festivals where native speakers celebrate their language and traditions – it’s a great way to immerse your kids in the culture.
And don’t forget to spice up your language learning with some entertainment! Listen to native content like songs, podcasts, movies, and audiobooks – it’s not only fun but also enhances listening skills and introduces different accents. Ready for some pen pals? Connect with native speakers around the world and start writing letters or emails – not only does it improve language skills, but it also opens doors to meaningful cultural exchanges.
Finally, virtual language tutors, who are native speakers, can provide one-on-one or small group lessons tailored to your kids’ needs and interests. And hey, if you’re up for some adventure, explore cultural exchange programs where native speakers can stay with your family or vice versa – it’s an immersive experience that forges lasting connections.
Utilize screentime
Utilizing screens as a tool for second language learning can be a powerful and engaging addition to your homeschooling toolkit. With the abundance of digital Spanish learning resources available, screens can provide interactive and immersive language experiences for your kids.
One practical tip is to explore language learning apps designed for kids that offer interactive games, quizzes, and exercises. These apps make learning fun and engaging, allowing kids to practice vocabulary, pronunciation, and sentence structures in an enjoyable way.
Additionally, seek out educational language videos or language learning platforms that feature entertaining content for kids. Animated stories, songs, and educational videos can expose your children to authentic language use, helping them grasp the language’s natural rhythm and intonation.
Encourage your kids to watch shows and movies in Spanish on streaming platforms that offer content in different languages. This provides opportunities for exposure to authentic language in context like I mentioned above.
Introduce your kids to audiobooks and podcasts in Spanish to enhance listening comprehension and expose them to diverse accents and language styles.
While using screens strategically, it’s essential to set reasonable screen time limits to maintain a balanced learning environment. Incorporate a variety of learning activities, including hands-on experiences and real-life interactions, to create a holistic language learning approach in your homeschool.
The 5 Best Apps to Learn Spanish at Home
As you begin to teach Spanish in your homeschool, you might specifically wonder what is the best app to learn Spanish. I’ve got you covered!
These handpicked gems offer interactive features, engaging content, and expertly crafted lessons to make your language journey enjoyable and effective.
Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooling parent or a young language enthusiast, these great apps will help your kids learn Spanish at your own pace from the comfort of your own home. ¡Vamos a empezar! (Let’s begin!)
FabuLingua
Designed for kids 2-10 years old.
The best app to learn Spanish, in my opinion, is FabuLingua.
FabuLingua is a platform of comprehensible input through stories, designed to be compelling to kids. The app (which has a patent!) is based on the science of second language acquisition, all wrapped up in a fun mobile game.
This app offers a diverse range of activities such as interactive stories, game-like lessons and exercises that help kids work on all linguistic skills, from comprehension to pronunciation, reading and writing. Their immersion-based learning approach ensures that kids get a feel for the language in real-life contexts, enhancing their language acquisition skills.
My son loves unlocking new locations on the map as he makes progress in the app, earning keys to open treasure chests as he reads stories, and earning other surprises along the way. I love that the more stories he reads, the more he is rewarded!
He especially loves recording his voice as he imitates the narrator (he can get really into this part!).
With FabuLingua’s ‘Learning Path’ for each story, kids don’t just read a story and move on; they work on mastering each story. It’s so much more comprehensive than what you think of when you hear the word “app”.
Oh, and the best part? I don’t need to speak a word of Spanish for my kids to use it!
FabuLingua is a great value for your homeschool, at $69.99 for an annual subscription that gives you 6 child profiles. Blessed Homeschool readers can get a month for free when you subscribe with the coupon code BLESSED1MONTHFREE.
Duolingo App
Designed for kids 4+.
Duolingo is a popular and user-friendly language learning app suitable for learners of all ages. There’s a free version, but also a monthly subscription option that includes more premium version features.
It offers a gamified learning experience, making it an engaging tool for teaching Spanish at home.
The app incorporates listening, speaking, reading, and writing exercises to develop well-rounded language skills. Its interactive lessons and progress tracking features keep learners motivated and on track.
Rosetta Stone App
Designed for kids 5+.
Rosetta Stone is a time-tested language learning program that offers a comprehensive curriculum for teaching Spanish at home.
The app uses a dynamic immersion approach to teach new vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar skills through images and context.
The speech recognition feature helps learners improve their pronunciation, making it an excellent choice for parents who want their child to develop accurate speaking skills.
Babbel
Designed for kids 14+.
Babbel provides a structured and practical approach to language learning. Its step-by-step lessons are designed to build essential language skills gradually.
Babbel focuses on real-life conversational topics, enabling learners to communicate confidently in Spanish. The app’s interactive exercises and personalized review sessions ensure that your child retains what they learn effectively.
Mindsnacks
Designed for kids 7-12+.
Mindsnacks is an interactive and visually appealing app that caters to different learning styles.
Through exciting games and challenges, children can practice vocabulary, sentence structure, and comprehension. This app keeps learners motivated and entertained while making significant progress in their Spanish language skills.
How to Teach Your Child Spanish at Home
Teaching your child Spanish at home can be an enriching and rewarding experience. By incorporating storytelling, native speaker exposure, and some of the best Spanish learning apps into your homeschooling routine, you can create a dynamic language-learning environment that nurtures their linguistic growth.
Embrace the power of consistency and interactive learning, allowing your kids to explore the world of Spanish with enthusiasm and curiosity.
Remember that language learning is a continuous journey, not just a destination. Celebrate each step forward and enjoy the process with your children. As they build their language skills, they also develop a deeper appreciation for different cultures and the interconnectedness of our global society.
So, head into teaching your kids Spanish with confidence and excitement – you can do this!
And let me know in the comments: have you used any apps to teach Spanish in your homeschool? Which have you loved (and which from this article might you try)?
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