Did you know that one of the keys to raising bilingual Spanish-speaking kids is to create a strong positive connection to the language?
When I wrote Nobody Told Me This About Raising a Bilingual Child in the spring of 2023, I wanted to address the real, often overlooked challenges of bilingual parenting that I experienced raising my trilingual daughter. While many resources focus on the science behind bilingualism, few address the emotional journey—especially the importance of connecting language learning to positive, meaningful experiences.
In today’s episode, I’ll be reading a passage from page 43 of my book titled: "Nobody Told Me the Importance of Creating a Positive Emotional Connection to the Language for My Child." I’ll also share five actionable tips to help you make language learning fun, impactful, and memorable. These tips will empower you to foster a deep and joyful connection between your child and the Spanish language, enriching their bilingual journey and your family’s cultural heritage.
Here’s a sneak peek into what you’ll learn in this episode:
The Importance of Emotional Connection in Language Learning
Learn why creating a positive emotional bond with the language can make a lasting impact on your child’s bilingual journey.
How to Make Language Learning Memorable
Discover five practical ways to make language learning fun, impactful, and memorable for your child, from creating unique experiences to establishing meaningful traditions.
Tips for Bonding Through Language
Understand the role of bonding in bilingualism and how incorporating your child’s interests and family connections can enhance their love for the language.
Simple Traditions to Reinforce Language Skills
Get inspired to introduce small yet powerful traditions that help reinforce language learning in a natural, enjoyable way.
Resources for Deepening Your Bilingual Parenting Journey
Learn about additional resources, including my book Nadie Me Dijo Esto Sobre Criar a un Niño Bilingüe, to support your efforts and provide even more tools for raising a bilingual child.
Time Stamps:
00:52 Monologue
09:21 The power of creating a first experience
11:14 When you focus on bonding
13:27 Incorporating what they love
15:21 Incorporating people in language
18:38 Making traditions
Quotes:
" “The more we speak Spanish and the more we incorporate it into our daily lives, the more likely they are to follow because they will model after us. "Do as I do, not as I say," right?” - Janny Perez
"“In the United States, we kind of have to learn all types of Spanish. We have to learn Mexican Spanish, Colombian Spanish, Venezuelan Spanish, Cuban Spanish, Puerto Rican Spanish, because we have different names for different things. I mean, do you say banano, banana, plátano, or guineo?” -Janny Perez
"“(You) Remember, the first thing that you did of many different things, right? So, creating that first memory in Español is going to help them: one, retain the language, and two, create a strong positive connection to the language.” -Janny Perez
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
Obtén To Copia Digital Del Libro Nadie Me Dijo Esto Sobre Criar a Un Niño Bilingüe antes de que salga AQUI
Connect with Janny on Social Media:
- Instagram: @milegasi
- The Latina Mom Legacy on Instagram: @thelatinamomlegacy
- Pinterest: @milegasi
Additional Apps, Classes, & Resources:
- Online Course: How to Raise a Bilingual Spanish Child
Join Our Newsletter Community:
- Join the newsletter: La Lista at Milegasi.com
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