For parents who want to support their teens’ Spanish fluency journey without speaking the language themselves, this vocabulary is a win-win. It’s easy to practice, fun to remember, and instantly relevant.

In this blog, you’ll find themed vocabulary lists covering everything from fast food favorites to common cooking verbs, sample sentences, and helpful context.

These phrases will help your teen build confidence, speak more naturally, and see that Spanish is more than a subject; it’s a skill they can use anytime, anywhere.

Join 559 million people on the planet who speak Spanish!
Sign up for your free trial Spanish class today.

1. Snack Time Talk – Teen Munchies in Spanish

These are the words your teen can use when talking about after-school snacks, vending machines, or fast food hangouts.

• Papas fritas – French fries
  Common in Latin America, especially at fast food restaurants.
  Quiero papas fritas con mi hamburguesa. – I want fries with my burger.
• Galletas – Cookies
  Not just sweet treats, but also common in lunchboxes.
  Hay galletas de chocolate en la mesa. – There are chocolate cookies on the table.
• Refresco/Gaseosa – Soda
  You might hear bebida in Spain, but refresco or gaseosa are widely used across Latin America.
  Prefiero un refresco frío. – I prefer a cold soda.
• Papitas – Chips
  A casual, affectionate way to refer to potato chips.
  Voy a comprar unas papitas para el recreo. – I’m going to buy some chips for break time.
• Hamburguesa – Burger
  Teens love fast food, and this word pops up often.
  ¡Esta hamburguesa está deliciosa! – This burger is delicious!
• Pollo frito – Fried chicken
  Especially popular in Caribbean and Southern U.S. Latino cultures.
  Vamos a cenar pollo frito esta noche. – We’re having fried chicken for dinner tonight.

2. What’s for Dinner? – Family Meals at Home

These words help teens describe and participate in everyday meals, especially those shared with family.

• Arroz – Rice
  A staple in many Latin American homes.
  El arroz está listo. – The rice is ready.
• Carne – Meat
  Use it generally or specify (like carne de res for beef).
  Vamos a cocinar carne con papas. – We’re going to cook meat with potatoes.
• Verduras – Vegetables
  Healthier vocabulary that comes up at dinner and in class nutrition talks.
  Debes comer más verduras. – You should eat more vegetables.
• Ensalada – Salad
  Same meaning as in English, but a common dinner side.
  Mi abuela hace una ensalada riquísima. – My grandma makes a delicious salad.
• Pescado – Fish
  Watch the difference: pez is the animal; pescado is the food.
  El pescado está bien cocido. – The fish is well cooked.
• Tortilla – Flatbread or omelet
  In Mexico, it’s flatbread. In Spain, it’s an egg-and-potato omelet.
  Vamos a calentar las tortillas. – Let’s warm up the tortillas.

3. Sweet Tooth Central – Desserts Teens Love

Dessert vocabulary is not only fun to say, but it also sticks because teens use it often in conversation.

• Helado – Ice cream
  Great for warm weather and reward days.
  Quiero helado de vainilla. – I want vanilla ice cream.
• Pastel – Cake
  Not to be confused with tarta (more common in Spain).
  Vamos a comer pastel de cumpleaños. – We’re having birthday cake.
• Churros – Fried dough sticks
  Often eaten with chocolate sauce in Spain or Mexico.
  Comí churros con mis primos en el mercado. – I ate churros with my cousins at the market.
• Dulces – Candies
  Used broadly for sweets.
  Los niños tienen muchos dulces. – The kids have a lot of candy.
• Flan – Caramel custard
  A classic dessert in many Spanish-speaking countries.
  El flan de mi tía es famoso. – My aunt’s flan is famous.

4. Ordering Like a Local – Restaurant Phrases That Work Anywhere

These phrases are perfect for teens to try when dining out, whether on vacation or during a Spanish project.

• Quiero pedir… – I want to order…
  Quiero pedir una hamburguesa con queso. – I want to order a cheeseburger.
• Para mí, un… – For me, a…
  Para mí, un taco de pollo. – For me, a chicken taco.
• ¿Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost?
  ¿Cuánto cuesta el combo? – How much is the combo?
• ¿Tiene opciones vegetarianas? – Do you have vegetarian options?
  ¿Tiene opciones vegetarianas en el menú? – Do you have vegetarian options on the menu?
• La cuenta, por favor. – The check, please.
  La cuenta, por favor. Ya terminamos. – The check, please. We’re done.

5. In the Kitchen – Cooking Verbs and Recipe Basics

Perfect for teens who like to cook or help out in the kitchen.

• Mezclar – To mix
  Mezcla el arroz con las verduras. – Mix the rice with the vegetables.
• Cortar – To cut
  Voy a cortar los tomates. – I’m going to cut the tomatoes.
• Hervir – To boil
  Tienes que hervir el agua primero. – You have to boil the water first.
• Freír – To fry
  Vamos a freír los plátanos. – We’re going to fry the plantains.
• Hornear – To bake
  Me gusta hornear pan los domingos. – I like baking bread on Sundays.
• Ingredientes – Ingredients
  ¿Cuáles son los ingredientes de esta receta? – What are the ingredients in this recipe?

Bonus Activity: Create Your Own Recipe Card

Pick a favorite food (like sandwiches or tacos), and work together to write the ingredients and steps in Spanish. Even if your child just uses a few verbs and nouns from this list, it reinforces vocabulary with purpose.

Conclusion: Make Spanish Tasty and Memorable

Food vocabulary isn’t just practical, it’s personal.

When teens can talk about what they eat, what they love, and how they help in the kitchen, Spanish becomes more than a subject. It becomes a part of their daily life. These words give your child confidence to speak, connect, and enjoy the learning process without the pressure of perfection. From snacking with friends to ordering at a restaurant, this is language they can use right now.

If you want to keep that momentum going, we invite you to try a free class with Homeschool Spanish Academy. Our program is 100% online, taught by native Spanish-speaking teachers, and offers engaging 1-on-1 or 2-on-1 lessons tailored to your teen’s level and pace.

With flexible scheduling and a supportive curriculum, it’s the perfect next step toward real-world fluency.

At Homeschool Spanish Academy, we make that transformation easier. Our 100% online program offers live sessions with native Spanish-speaking teachers. With a flexible schedule and an engaging curriculum designed for high schoolers, your teen can build fluency step by step and love the process. Ready to see the difference? Try a free class today at Homeschool Spanish Academy.

Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these

“It’s great being able to interact with native speaking people and having a conversation with them not just doing all the work on paper. It’s also an amazing opportunity to speak with native Spanish-speaking people without having to travel to a native Spanish-speaking country.”

– Melanie

“Getting to know wonderful teachers who care about me and my growth in language and education. Evelyn Gomez and Erick Cacao are two of the most extraordinary people I have ever met, and talking with them in Spanish at the beginning of classes is always so fulfilling and greatly contributes to my happiness, joy, and wellbeing.”

– Abby

“I love that my children have the opportunity to speak with a live person. They get to practice Spanish in a 1-1 setting while improve their speaking, writing and reading skills during their lessons. HSA is a great way to learn Spanish for all ages! My children are 6, 9 and 11. My oldest two (9 and 11) have been taking classes with HSA for almost 2 years now. They love seeing their teacher each week. They understand the importance of learning several languages. I’ve seen them grow and learn with HSA. I’m excited to see how they will improve the more classes they take. I highly recommend them. You can’t bet learning and speaking with a live teacher. I’ve tried other programs. It’s just not as motivating.”

– Karie Ann, Parent of 3

Want more Spanish Resources for Kids? Check these out!

• Why 2-on-1 Spanish Classes Work Better for Beginners (Especially Middle Schoolers)
• From YouTube to Fluent: How to Use Media to Boost Your Child’s Spanish at Home
• 7 Online Spanish Classes for Kids Offering Free Trials
• 5 Fun and Engaging Ways to Introduce Spanish to Your Preschooler
• Your Child’s First Spanish Conversation: How to Prep, Practice, and Cheer Them On
• 10 Ways Learning Spanish Can Improve Your Child’s Behavior
• 7 Spanish Reading Games for Kids: Boosting Literacy Skills
• 10 Funny Spanish Memes You Can Share With Your Child

The post From Snacks to Dinners: Spanish Vocabulary for Food That Teens Actually Talk About appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

There’s nothing more frustrating than this: you’re in a Spanish conversation with a family member or friend, you’re doing okay… and then it happens. You get stuck. You freeze. Your brain stalls out, the words vanish, and you’re left smiling awkwardly while the conversation keeps going without you.

If you’ve been there, you’re not alone. Even intermediate Spanish learners—especially teens learning for family connection—hit these roadblocks. But here’s the good news: you don’t need perfect grammar to keep the conversation flowing. What you do need is a small toolkit of phrases you can fall back on when your mind goes blank. Think of them like conversation life rafts.

In this post, you’ll learn exactly what to say in those awkward moments, plus how to sound natural (even if you’re still building your fluency).

Join 559 million people on the planet who speak Spanish!
Sign up for your free trial Spanish class today.

Why These Phrases Matter More Than You Think

Learning Spanish to connect with family isn’t just about getting the grammar right. It’s about showing up in the conversation, even when nervous or unsure.

According to a study published by the Modern Language Journal, language learners who use communication strategies like asking for clarification or paraphrasing show stronger long-term speaking skills and more confidence overall.

That means the ability to keep talking, even imperfectly, is a huge part of reaching fluency.

12 Go-To Spanish Phrases for When You’re Not Sure What to Say

Here are some friendly, natural-sounding phrases you can use when the conversation takes an unexpected turn or your vocabulary falls short.

1. ¿Cómo se dice…?
   How do you say…?
   Use this when you’re searching for a word and want to keep going.
2. No sé cómo decirlo, pero…
   I don’t know how to say it, but…
   Great for signaling that you’re trying, even if it’s not perfect.
3. ¿Puedes repetir eso más despacio?
   Can you repeat that more slowly?
   A must-have when things move too fast.
4. ¿Qué significa eso?
   What does that mean?
   Use this to ask about a word you don’t recognize.
5. Es como…
   It’s like…
   A helpful way to describe something when you don’t know the exact term.
6. Olvidé la palabra.
   I forgot the word.
   Simple and honest. It helps keep the conversation going.
7. Estoy aprendiendo, así que mi español no es perfecto.
   I’m learning, so my Spanish’s not perfect.
   A great phrase to build grace for yourself, and invite patience from others.
8. Más o menos.
   More or less.
   Use this when you want to agree or acknowledge, but aren’t fully sure.
9. Creo que sí, pero no estoy segura.
   I think so, but I’m not sure.
   Honest, natural, and still keeps you in the conversation.
10. ¿Me puedes ayudar a decirlo mejor?
    Can you help me say it better?
    Great for practice and strengthening relationships with those who support your learning.
11. Un momento… estoy pensando.
    One moment… I’m thinking.
    This buys you time in a natural way.
12. ¿Lo dije bien?
    Did I say that right?
    Shows you’re trying and opens the door for gentle correction.

These Phrases Build More Than Language, They Build Connection

When you’re learning Spanish to talk to your abuela, your cousins, or Spanish-speaking friends, using these phrases shows them that you care. You’re not trying to be perfect, you’re trying to connect. That effort matters. It creates closeness. It shows heart.

While perfection might seem like the goal, connection and confidence actually drive language retention. Studies show that emotionally relevant conversations help learners retain vocabulary and structure more effectively than memorization or rote practice.

Want to Practice These Phrases in Real Conversations?

That’s where 1-on-1 lessons with native-speaking teachers can really make a difference. At Homeschool Spanish Academy, we offer personalized instruction that helps you use phrases like these in natural conversations, without pressure. You’ll get to speak, make mistakes, and build fluency in a space that feels safe and encouraging.

Ready to take it further? Click here to book a free trial class and start practicing the way real people speak.

Keep Going—You’re Closer Than You Think

Freezing in a conversation doesn’t mean you’re failing; it means you’re learning. With a few of these go-to phrases in your back pocket, you can stay present, confident, and most importantly, keep talking.

Because fluency isn’t about having every word. It’s about never giving up on connection.

Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these

“It’s great being able to interact with native speaking people and having a conversation with them not just doing all the work on paper. It’s also an amazing opportunity to speak with native Spanish-speaking people without having to travel to a native Spanish-speaking country.”

– Melanie

“Getting to know wonderful teachers who care about me and my growth in language and education. Evelyn Gomez and Erick Cacao are two of the most extraordinary people I have ever met, and talking with them in Spanish at the beginning of classes is always so fulfilling and greatly contributes to my happiness, joy, and wellbeing.”

– Abby

“I love that my children have the opportunity to speak with a live person. They get to practice Spanish in a 1-1 setting while improve their speaking, writing and reading skills during their lessons. HSA is a great way to learn Spanish for all ages! My children are 6, 9 and 11. My oldest two (9 and 11) have been taking classes with HSA for almost 2 years now. They love seeing their teacher each week. They understand the importance of learning several languages. I’ve seen them grow and learn with HSA. I’m excited to see how they will improve the more classes they take. I highly recommend them. You can’t bet learning and speaking with a live teacher. I’ve tried other programs. It’s just not as motivating.”

– Karie Ann, Parent of 3

Want more Spanish Vocabulary? Check these out!

• From Snacks to Dinners: Spanish Vocabulary for Food That Teens Actually Talk About
• What to Say When You’re Not Sure What to Say – in Spanish!
• Real Spanish for Real Life: Top Beginner Phrases
• Your Child Knows Some Spanish Words, Now What? How to Turn Vocabulary Into Real Conversations
• 29 Cool and Catchy Spanish Phrases To Use With Friends [+Audio]
• Fun Ways to Practice Spanish with Family (Even If Everyone’s at Different Levels)
• 10 Simple Spanish Words Your Preschooler Can Learn This Week
• The 25 Most Useful Spanish Phrases You Need to Learn Today

The post What to Say When You’re Not Sure What to Say – in Spanish! appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

Whether they’re navigating class, chatting with friends, or running errands with you, these beginner-friendly Spanish phrases will help them speak with confidence from day one. Instead of memorization, your teen will get expressions they can practice daily, phrases that help them start conversations, ask questions, and express their feelings.

For parents who want to be part of the learning journey but don’t speak Spanish themselves, these phrases are easy to review together. They’re a simple, meaningful step toward the bigger goal: real fluency, valuable skills, and a teen who feels proud of their progress.

Let’s skip the flashcards and start speaking.

Join 559 million people on the planet who speak Spanish!
Sign up for your free trial Spanish class today.

1. Say Hello Like You Mean It (Introductions & Greetings)

Starting a conversation takes courage, especially in a new language. These greeting phrases make that first step easier.

• ¿Cómo te llamas?– What’s your name? Use this when meeting someone new. ¿Cómo te llamas? – What’s your name?
• Me llamo… – My name is… Your teen will say this countless times when introducing themselves. Me llamo Diego. – My name is Diego.
• Mucho gusto – Nice to meet you. A polite, warm response to meeting someone. Mucho gusto, Carla. – Nice to meet you, Carla.
• ¿Cómo estás? – How are you? Used informally among friends. ¿Cómo estás hoy? – How are you today?
• Estoy bien / cansado(a) / más o menos – I’m good / tired / so-so. Simple responses to describe how they feel. Estoy cansado hoy. – I’m tired today.

2. School Talk They’ll Actually Use (Classroom Language)

Help your child feel more confident in the classroom with these key expressions.

• ¿Puedo ir al baño?– Can I go to the bathroom? A must-have classroom request. ¿Puedo ir al baño, por favor? – Can I go to the bathroom, please?
• No entiendo – I don’t understand. This one gives them a tool to ask for help. Lo siento, no entiendo la pregunta. – Sorry, I don’t understand the question.
• ¿Puedes repetir eso?– Can you repeat that? Helps them clarify when they miss something. ¿Puedes repetir eso, por favor? – Can you repeat that, please?
• ¿Qué significa…? – What does … mean? For asking about new words. ¿Qué significa “libro”? – What does “libro” mean?
• ¿Hay tarea? – Is there homework? Keeps them on top of assignments. ¿Hay tarea para mañana? – Is there homework for tomorrow?

3. Make It Social (Friendship & Hanging Out)

Give your teen vocabulary that makes Spanish feel cool, not just academic.

• ¿Qué haces? – What are you doing? A go-to question between friends. ¿Qué haces este fin de semana? – What are you doing this weekend?
• Nada, solo estoy chillin’ – Nothing, just chilling. Blending English and Spanish is common among teens. Nada, solo estoy chillin’ en casa. – Nothing, just chilling at home.
• ¿Quieres salir? – Want to hang out? Friendly invite to socialize. ¿Quieres salir después de clase? – Want to hang out after class?
• ¡Qué padre! / ¡Qué chévere! – That’s cool! “Padre” is used in Mexico; “chévere” is common in the Caribbean and South America. ¡Qué chévere tu mochila! – Your backpack is so cool!
• Estoy aburrido(a) – I’m bored. Good for expressing common teen feelings. Estoy aburrido de esta película. – I’m bored of this movie.

4. Speak from the Heart (Emotions & Opinions)

Language is about expressing yourself. These phrases help teens say what they really feel.

• Estoy feliz / triste / enojado(a) – I’m happy / sad / angry. Core emotional vocabulary. Estoy feliz porque saqué una buena nota. – I’m happy because I got a good grade.
• Tengo hambre / sueño – I’m hungry/sleepy. Very relatable phrases. Tengo sueño. No dormí bien. – I’m sleepy. I didn’t sleep well.
• No me gusta eso – I don’t like that. Great for expressing preferences. No me gusta ese programa. – I don’t like that show.
• ¡Eso me encanta! – I love that! Positive and enthusiastic. ¡Esa canción me encanta! – I love that song!
• ¡Eso es injusto! – That’s unfair! Perfect for teen conversations. ¡Eso es injusto! Yo lavé los platos ayer. – That’s unfair! I did the dishes yesterday.

5. Talk Like You’re Out and About (Supermarket Spanish)

Real-life errands offer great opportunities for speaking Spanish.

• ¿Dónde está la leche? – Where is the milk? Everyday vocabulary in action. ¿Dónde está la leche? No la veo. – Where is the milk? I don’t see it.
• Quiero comprar frutas – I want to buy fruit. Basic shopping language. Quiero comprar frutas para el desayuno. – I want to buy fruit for breakfast.
• ¿Cuánto cuesta esto? – How much does this cost? A great survival phrase. ¿Cuánto cuesta esto? – How much does this cost?
• ¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta? – Can I pay with a card? Good for modern shopping situations. ¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta de crédito? – Can I pay with a credit card?
• Necesitamos más pan – We need more bread. Useful for errands and daily conversation. Necesitamos más pan para los sandwiches. – We need more bread for the sandwiches.
• Gracias, que tenga un buen día – Thank you, have a nice day. Always polite, always welcome. Gracias, que tenga un buen día, señora. – Thank you, have a nice day, ma’am.

Mini Practice Activity: Phrase Challenge

Each day this week, have your teen pick three phrases from this list and use them aloud, whether in a roleplay with you, in a text message, or during their lesson. Keep score and celebrate wins together!

Build Confidence, One Phrase at a Time

The phrases your teen learned today are more than just vocabulary; they build blocks for honest conversations, self-expression, and meaningful connection. This list is just the beginning, but it’s a powerful one. Encouraging your child to use even a few new phrases each week can transform Spanish from a school subject into a real-life skill they own with pride.

At Homeschool Spanish Academy, we make that transformation easier. Our 100% online program offers live sessions with native Spanish-speaking teachers. With a flexible schedule and an engaging curriculum designed for high schoolers, your teen can build fluency step by step and love the process. Ready to see the difference? Try a free class today at Homeschool Spanish Academy.

Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these

“It’s great being able to interact with native speaking people and having a conversation with them not just doing all the work on paper. It’s also an amazing opportunity to speak with native Spanish-speaking people without having to travel to a native Spanish-speaking country.”

– Melanie

“Getting to know wonderful teachers who care about me and my growth in language and education. Evelyn Gomez and Erick Cacao are two of the most extraordinary people I have ever met, and talking with them in Spanish at the beginning of classes is always so fulfilling and greatly contributes to my happiness, joy, and wellbeing.”

– Abby

“I love that my children have the opportunity to speak with a live person. They get to practice Spanish in a 1-1 setting while improve their speaking, writing and reading skills during their lessons. HSA is a great way to learn Spanish for all ages! My children are 6, 9 and 11. My oldest two (9 and 11) have been taking classes with HSA for almost 2 years now. They love seeing their teacher each week. They understand the importance of learning several languages. I’ve seen them grow and learn with HSA. I’m excited to see how they will improve the more classes they take. I highly recommend them. You can’t bet learning and speaking with a live teacher. I’ve tried other programs. It’s just not as motivating.”

– Karie Ann, Parent of 3

Want more Spanish Vocabulary? Check these out!

• 25 Essential Spanish Phrases for Everyday Conversations
• Avoiding Embarrassing Mistakes: Common False Friends in Spanish
• Llegar vs Llevar in Spanish: What’s the Difference?
• 10 Essential Ways to Use “Que” in Spanish
• Spanish Preterite vs Imperfect: 25 Online Exercises to Practice Your Skills
• 50 Useful Spanish Transition Words for Everyday Speech and Writing
• Master the 18 Spanish Tenses (and Take Our Cheat Sheet With You)
• All About Adverbial Clauses in Spanish

The post Real Spanish for Real Life: Top Beginner Phrases appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

Here’s the good news: You don’t have to be fluent to start speaking Spanish in real-world situations.

Learning simple, essential phrases can help you build confidence and create natural conversations from day one. Think of these phrases like the building blocks of a conversation; once you have them, you can mix and match to express yourself clearly.

Today, we’ll dive into 25 essential Spanish phrases every beginner should know, complete with pronunciation guides and real-life examples. Let’s get you ready to have those everyday conversations, and no memorization of complicated grammar rules is required.

Join 559 million people on the planet who speak Spanish!
Sign up for your free trial Spanish class today.

What Are “Essential Phrases” and Why Are They Important?

Essential phrases are common word combinations that people use in daily interactions. Instead of focusing on single words, you’re learning how people actually speak, and it saves you from having to translate in your head every time you talk.

Think about it this way: when you learned to drive, you didn’t memorize car parts first, you practiced driving. Phrases are like the “practice” of language learning.

Using ready-to-go phrases helps you:

• Sound more natural
• Respond faster
• Avoid awkward pauses

And because Spanish is consistent in pronunciation, once you learn a phrase, you can say it with confidence!

25 Essential Spanish Phrases (With Pronunciation & Examples)

Basic Rules for Using These Phrases

• Politeness counts: Adding por favor (please) and gracias (thank you) goes a long way.
• Match the situation: Use tú forms for friends and casual settings. Use usted for formal situations.
• Watch your pronunciation: Spanish vowels are short and crisp, with no gliding sounds like in English.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Mistake: Translating literally from English.
  • Fix: Focus on the entire phrase, not individual words.
• Mistake: Forgetting gender (e.g., perdido vs. perdida).
  • Fix: Use -o if you’re male, -a if you’re female.
• Mistake: Mixing up formal and informal speech.
  • Fix: Remember usted for formal conversations, tú for informal ones.

Tip: Practice saying the phrases out loud, muscle memory helps with pronunciation and confidence!

Mini Practice Section

Fill in the blanks:

1. ¡_____ días!
2. Me _____ Ana.
3. ¿_____ cuesta esta camisa?
4. No _____, ¿puede repetirlo?
5. ¡Hasta _____!

Answer Key:

1. Buenos
2. llamo
3. Cuánto
4. entiendo
5. luego

Exceptions and Edge Cases

• Regional Variations: In some countries, you’ll hear “¡Buenas!” instead of “¡Buenos días!” It’s a casual greeting.
• Salúd: Depending on context, “salúd” can mean “cheers,” “health,” or “bless you” after a sneeze.

Pay attention to how locals use these phrases; it’s the best way to learn!

Conclusion

Mastering these 25 phrases gives you a solid foundation for real-world conversations in Spanish. They’re your ticket to getting comfortable speaking without overthinking.

Language learning is a marathon, not a sprint, but every step you take gets you closer to your goal. Why not practice these phrases with a native speaker in a real conversation?

At Homeschool Spanish Academy, you can try a free class with a friendly, certified teacher. We’re 100% online, offer flexible scheduling, and specialize in one-on-one lessons for adults.

Ready to make Spanish a part of your everyday life? Click here to book your free trial class!

Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these

“It’s great being able to interact with native speaking people and having a conversation with them not just doing all the work on paper. It’s also an amazing opportunity to speak with native Spanish-speaking people without having to travel to a native Spanish-speaking country.”

– Melanie

“Getting to know wonderful teachers who care about me and my growth in language and education. Evelyn Gomez and Erick Cacao are two of the most extraordinary people I have ever met, and talking with them in Spanish at the beginning of classes is always so fulfilling and greatly contributes to my happiness, joy, and wellbeing.”

– Abby

“I love that my children have the opportunity to speak with a live person. They get to practice Spanish in a 1-1 setting while improve their speaking, writing and reading skills during their lessons. HSA is a great way to learn Spanish for all ages! My children are 6, 9 and 11. My oldest two (9 and 11) have been taking classes with HSA for almost 2 years now. They love seeing their teacher each week. They understand the importance of learning several languages. I’ve seen them grow and learn with HSA. I’m excited to see how they will improve the more classes they take. I highly recommend them. You can’t bet learning and speaking with a live teacher. I’ve tried other programs. It’s just not as motivating.”

– Karie Ann, Parent of 3

Want more Spanish Resources for Kids? Check these out!

• Why 2-on-1 Spanish Classes Work Better for Beginners (Especially Middle Schoolers)
• From YouTube to Fluent: How to Use Media to Boost Your Child’s Spanish at Home
• 7 Online Spanish Classes for Kids Offering Free Trials
• 5 Fun and Engaging Ways to Introduce Spanish to Your Preschooler
• Your Child’s First Spanish Conversation: How to Prep, Practice, and Cheer Them On
• 10 Ways Learning Spanish Can Improve Your Child’s Behavior
• 7 Spanish Reading Games for Kids: Boosting Literacy Skills
• 10 Funny Spanish Memes You Can Share With Your Child

The post 25 Essential Spanish Phrases for Everyday Conversations appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

False friends or cognates can lead to confusion, awkward situations, and even misunderstandings.

But don’t worry. By the end of this blog post, you’ll be able to spot these tricky word pairs and use them correctly with confidence.

Join 559 million people on the planet who speak Spanish!
Sign up for your free trial Spanish class today.

What Are False Friends?

In language learning, false friends / false cognates (or “falsos amigos” in Spanish) are words that look or sound similar in two languages but have very different meanings. They can be misleading because your brain sees a familiar word and jumps to the wrong conclusion.

Think of it like seeing someone at a party who looks just like your cousin. You wave, smile, even start chatting, only to realize it’s a total stranger!

False friends work the same way. They seem familiar, but they’re not who you think they are.

Why Are False Friends Tricky?

Spanish and English share many roots from Latin, so it’s normal to see similar-looking words. Sometimes, these words are true cognates (like “animal” and “animal“), but false friends hide among them, waiting to trip you up.

If you’re just starting to learn Spanish, it’s easy to assume that if a word looks like English, it must mean the same thing. This assumption can cause big misunderstandings.

Tip: When in doubt, double-check the meaning using reliable resources like SpanishPod101 or SpanishDictionary.com.

Common False Friends You Need to Know

Here’s a handy chart of 15 common false friends. Learn these, and you’ll dodge some of the most common mistakes.

Why Do We Make These Mistakes?

• Latin Roots: Spanish and English share many Latin-based words.
• Overconfidence: It’s easy to assume that similar-looking words have the same meanings.
• Fast Thinking: Our brains want to speed things up and fill in gaps based on familiar patterns.

Tip: Slow down when you encounter a familiar-looking Spanish word. Double-check it if you’re not 100% sure!

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Mistake: Assuming “embarazada” means embarrassed.
  • Fix: Learn “avergonzado” for embarrassed.
• Mistake: Thinking “asistir” means to assist.
  • Fix: Use “ayudar” for assist.
• Mistake: Believing “sensible” means sensible.
  • Fix: Know that “sensible” in Spanish is sensitive; “sensato” means sensible.
• Mistake: Mixing up “constipado” and “constipated.”
  • Fix: Learn “estreñido” for constipated.
• Mistake: Calling a school “college.”
  • Fix: “Colegio” = School, “universidad” = university/college.

Pro tip: Keep a small notebook or a digital note to record new false friends as you encounter them.

Mini Practice Section

Fill in the blanks with the correct Spanish word:

1. No quiero ____________ a mi jefe durante su almuerzo. (to bother)
2. Ella está ____________; espera su primer bebé. (pregnant)
3. Mañana voy a ____________ al concierto. (attend)
4. Estoy ____________ y no puedo respirar bien. (cold)
5. El proyecto fue ____________ con éxito. (carried out)

Answer Key:

1. molestar
2. embarazada
3. asistir
4. constipado
5. realizado

Exceptions and Edge Cases

Some false friends behave differently depending on context. For example:

• Actual can mean “real” in rare, formal uses (“actual facts”), but most of the time it’s better understood as “current.”
• Colegio can also mean “college” in some Latin American countries; always consider regional variations.

Tip: Context matters! Always pay attention to how native speakers use a word.

Conclusion

False friends can be confusing, but now you know how to spot them! By being aware of these common pitfalls, you’ll communicate more clearly and avoid those embarrassing slip-ups.

Language learning is a journey full of little victories like mastering tricky words. Celebrate each one! If you’re ready to take the next step and practice with a friendly, native-speaking teacher, why not try a free class with Homeschool Spanish Academy? We’re 100% online, offer flexible scheduling, and have a curriculum designed just for adult learners like you.

Ready to skip the guesswork and start speaking with confidence? Click here to book your free trial class!

Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these

“It’s great being able to interact with native speaking people and having a conversation with them not just doing all the work on paper. It’s also an amazing opportunity to speak with native Spanish-speaking people without having to travel to a native Spanish-speaking country.”

– Melanie

“Getting to know wonderful teachers who care about me and my growth in language and education. Evelyn Gomez and Erick Cacao are two of the most extraordinary people I have ever met, and talking with them in Spanish at the beginning of classes is always so fulfilling and greatly contributes to my happiness, joy, and wellbeing.”

– Abby

“I love that my children have the opportunity to speak with a live person. They get to practice Spanish in a 1-1 setting while improve their speaking, writing and reading skills during their lessons. HSA is a great way to learn Spanish for all ages! My children are 6, 9 and 11. My oldest two (9 and 11) have been taking classes with HSA for almost 2 years now. They love seeing their teacher each week. They understand the importance of learning several languages. I’ve seen them grow and learn with HSA. I’m excited to see how they will improve the more classes they take. I highly recommend them. You can’t bet learning and speaking with a live teacher. I’ve tried other programs. It’s just not as motivating.”

– Karie Ann, Parent of 3

Want more Spanish Resources for Kids? Check these out!

• Why 2-on-1 Spanish Classes Work Better for Beginners (Especially Middle Schoolers)
• From YouTube to Fluent: How to Use Media to Boost Your Child’s Spanish at Home
• 7 Online Spanish Classes for Kids Offering Free Trials
• 5 Fun and Engaging Ways to Introduce Spanish to Your Preschooler
• Your Child’s First Spanish Conversation: How to Prep, Practice, and Cheer Them On
• 10 Ways Learning Spanish Can Improve Your Child’s Behavior
• 7 Spanish Reading Games for Kids: Boosting Literacy Skills
• 10 Funny Spanish Memes You Can Share With Your Child

The post Avoiding Embarrassing Mistakes: Common False Friends in Spanish appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

There is nothing more exciting than hearing your children speak Spanish fluently! Even if it’s just a short phrase. This means they are on the right track.

Soon you’ll hear them sing songs in Spanish and even watch movies in Spanish without subtitles.

Eventually, they’ll be ready to pick up a book!

Literature is an entertaining, interesting, and fantastic tool you can use to help your kids master another language. Today we want to share with you some of the best beginner Spanish books for them.

Thrillers, coming-of-age stories, dramas, romance, we got you covered!

Join 559 million people on the planet who speak Spanish!
Sign up for your free trial Spanish class today.

The Importance of Spanish Literacy on Young New Learners

When we study a new language, we learn a lot of vocabulary and grammar rules. We also get exposed to a new culture and art. Language learning doesn’t have to be a boring and tedious process. Through art, we can make it interesting.  

Through stories, tales, and even songs, we learn about other people’s traditions, variations in each language, how people think, and the differences or similarities with our own culture. Additionally, art boosts our learning experience.

Books are perfect for this!

Moreover, books will help your kids acquire intercultural skills essential when learning a new language.

Also, reading is a great way to master the first degree of comprehension, with which they’ll get a grasp of the plot and how it unfolds, the theme of the story, and its characters.

The fluidity of thoughts and ideas, which the author used to write the story, will also impact your children’s speaking abilities. So much so that soon they’ll be able to create new ideas in the new language they’re learning.

Surely your kids have heard of Harry Potter or A Series of Unfortunate Events.

They’re lovely books!

But today, we bring you books in Spanish that will reinforce your children’s learning process, and we guarantee they’ll look as much as the Narnia series!

How to Choose the Right Book?

Any teenager will tell you that being in middle or high school is quite stressful. However, it’s also a time for lots of opportunities and physical and intellectual growth.

In fact, books can help your children find a safe place and understand themselves and their surroundings.

We know that choosing the right book for them can be overwhelming.

But don’t worry. Here are some tips to help you find the best book for your kids.

Level: Check that the book you choose is age-appropriate for your kid since it may include themes you might not understand. So, a good idea is to look for children’s books, young adult fiction, etc.

Content: It’s always smart to find books that can teach us how people use a language in real-life situations. Many young-adult books deal with modern ideas and current events, so your kids can easily identify with them.

Format: Do your kids love to listen to podcasts? Then an audiobook can be perfect for them. Also, with audiobooks, they have a chance to improve their pronunciation.

Genre: There are a wide variety of genres in literature, so ask your kids what they would like to read. Ask your kids if they like adventure stories, mystery, suspense, romance novels, or novels that deal with social issues, short stories, etc.

Pages: If your child is not a fan of reading, you can buy them a short book that’s 100 pages long or shorter. Who knows, maybe you have a bookworm at home, and you’ll need to find a one-thousand-page fantasy novel.

Look and Feel: Font size is important for reading. Some kids might want to read a book with pictures, so consider looking for graphic novels.

12 Best Beginner Spanish Books

We hope those tips were helpful. But we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to recommend some great books. So, here’s a list of amazing books written by Spanish-speaking authors or that have been translated into Spanish.

Let’s have a look!

1. Copo de algodón – María García Esperón

Copo de Algodón is the daughter of the princess of Tacuba and the lord of Tenochtitlan, and the wife of the lord of Iztapalapa. She believed in Tláloc and Huitzilopochtli and loved flowers and songs. Learn through her voice about her times, the Cholula massacre, the arrival of Hernán Cortés, and the death of Moctezuma, and immerse yourself in the ancient history of Mexico.

Reading Age: 11 years and up

Category: Fiction

Pages: 134

Formats: Paperback, Kindle, Audible Audiobook, CD

Buy the book here.

2. Devolver al remitente – Julia Álvarez

After Tyler’s father is injured in a tractor accident, his family is forced to hire migrant Mexican workers to help save their Vermont farm from foreclosure. However, Tyler isn’t sure what to make of these workers. Are they undocumented? And what about the three daughters, particularly Mari, the oldest, who is proud of her Mexican heritage but also increasingly connected to American life? In a novel full of hope but with no easy answers, Julia Álvarez weaves a beautiful and timely story that will stay with readers long after they finish it.

Reading Age: 11 years and up

Category: Fiction

Pages: 368

Formats: Paperback, Kindle, Audible Audiobook, CD

Buy the book here. 

3. Mi última clase – Daysi Valls

This book, written in Spanglish, deals with divorce and deportation. Solángel Murillo lives one of the most difficult days of her life when her mother is deported, and she has to leave everything behind and follow her father.

Reading Age: 12 years and up

Category: Fiction

Pages: 112

Format: Paperback

Buy the book here. 

4. Esperanza renace – Pam Muñóz Ryan

Esperanza Ortega has everything a girl could want: beautiful dresses, a nice house in Mexico, and the promise that she will someday run the family business. But an unexpected tragedy forces Esperanza and her mother to escape to California, where she discovers what real wealth is with the help of her family and community.

Reading Age: 12 years and up

Category: Fiction

Pages: 272

Formats: Paperback, Kindle, Audible Audiobook

Buy the book here. 

5. La casa en Mango Street – Sandra Cisneros

Through short stories and small vignettes, this book tells the story of Esperanza Cordero, a Latina girl who grows up in a Chicago neighborhood, as she interacts with her quirky family, discovers what life is like for an immigrant in the US, and dreams of what she’ll become. This book was originally written mixing English and Spanish, so you can also buy the original version.

Reading Age: 13 years and up

Category: Fiction

Pages: 144

Formats: Paperback and Kindle

Buy the book here. 

6. El polizón del Ulises – Ana María Matute

Three single sisters find an abandoned child at their house. Unfortunately, they don’t find the kid’s parents, so they adopt him and call him Marco Amado Manuel or Jujú. Each of the three sisters spends time teaching the boy what she thinks is the most important thing in life so that he becomes “a wise, elegant, and practical man.” But Jujú prefers to lock himself in the attic and spend the day reading books.

Reading Age: 13 years and up

Category: Fiction

Pages: 128

Formats: Paperback and Hardcover

Buy the book here. 

7. Aquí estuvimos – Matt de la Peña

Miguel was sent to a juvenile detention center. Since it happened, his mother hasn’t been able to look at him. In the detention center, he met Rondell and Mong, with whom he later plans something that could change his life forever.

Reading Age: 14 years and up

Category: Fiction

Pages: 400

Formats: Paperback, Kindle, Audible Audiobook

Buy the book here. 

8. Invisible – Eloy Moreno

Emotional, moving, different… All of us have wished to be invisible at one point. Told through the eyes of a 13-year-old boy, Invisible deals with bullying, social awkwardness, loneliness, and having superpowers.

Reading Age: 14 years and up

Category: Fiction

Pages: 304

Formats: Paperback, Kindle, Audible Audiobook

Buy the book here. 

9. Marina – Carlos Ruiz Zafón

In May 1980, fifteen-year-old Oscar Drai vanished from his boarding school in Barcelona. His story begins when he meets the mysterious Marina, the daughter of a reclusive painter. She takes him to a graveyard where they witness a strange event, and even stranger events unfold after.

Reading Age: 15 years and up

Category: Fiction

Pages: 304

Formats: Paperback, Hardcover, Kindle, Pocket Book

Buy the book here. 

10. Dark Dude – Oscar Hijuelos

Rico Fuentes is 15 years old, lives in Wisconsin, and is a first-generation American. Both his parents are Cuban and have dark skin. Rico, however, has white skin, blond hair, and even a few freckles due to his mother’s Irish grandfather. Rico is the victim of harassment. Other kids consider him “a dark dude.” This exciting coming-of-age story is filled with heartwarming lessons about family and belonging.

Reading Age: 15 years and up

Category: Fiction

Pages: 432

Formats: Paperback, Hardcover, Kindle, Audible Audiobook, CD

Buy the book here. 

11. Los Ojos de Carmen – Verónica Moscoso

Daniel is a 16-year-old American boy who wants to enter a photography contest. He travels to Ecuador, where he visits his uncle’s family and he travels to this unique and intriguing country. One day he meets Carmen, a girl with gorgeous eyes. They talk for a while, but each part ways. Daniel is enthralled. He wants to find her again because he thinks he can win the contest with a picture of her. This short book is filled with adventure and offers a unique take on Ecuador.

Reading age: 16 years and up

Category: Fiction

Pages: 79

Formats: Paperback, Kindle

Buy the book here. 

12. Como Agua para Chocolate – Laura Esquivel

This novel tells the story of the all-female De La Garza family. Here we meet Tita, a beautiful young woman in love with Pedro. Tita’s mother, however, has forbidden her to marry until after she dies. So, the drama follows; it’s worthy of a Latin American telenovela, except it’s an excellent read for teenagers.  

Reading Age: 16 years and up

Category: Fiction

Pages: 304

Formats: Paperback, Kindle, Audible Audiobook

Buy the book here. 

Choose the First Book in Spanish with Your Child and Read Away!

Millions of books are out there, and we know that you and your kids will find many amazing stories! But remember, there are other ways to practice reading in Spanish. Magazines, advertisements, newspaper articles, blogs, and even video games can help your kids become fluent in Spanish.

Here you’ll find a list of resources to help your kids improve their Spanish skills.

But if you think your kids still need the help of a teacher, don’t miss our 5-Star Spanish Program!

Allow your children to learn Spanish with professional native teachers by scheduling a free trial class with us. Click here to check our prices and our programs available for all ages. Yes, we have programs for preschoolers all the way to 19+ students.

And wouldn’t you know, parents voted us the “Best Overall Online Spanish Classes for Kids!”

So, don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity. Maybe your kid will become the next Daisy Valls or Sandra Cisneros and write a book mixing English and Spanish!

Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these…

“This is the best way for your kid to learn Spanish. It’s one-on-one, taught by native Spanish speakers, and uses a curriculum.”

– Sharon K, Parent of 3

“It’s a great way to learn Spanish, from native Spanish speakers in a 1-on-1 environment. It’s been fairly easy to schedule classes around my daughter’s other classes. The best value for us has been ordering multiple classes at a time. All the instructors have been great!”

– Cindy D, Parent of 3

“HSA offers very affordable, quality, one on one classes with a native speaker. My son has greatly benefited from taking classes. We have seen his confidence increase as well as his pronunciation improve, because he learns from a native Spanish speaker. HSA has quick, personal customer service. Our family has been very pleased with our experience so far!”

– Erica P. Parent of 1

Want more Spanish resources? Check these out!

• 12 Beginner Spanish Books for Middle School and High School
• 10 Ways Learning Spanish Can Improve Your Child’s Behavior
• 7 Spanish Reading Games for Kids: Boosting Literacy Skills
• Spanish Books That Teach More Than Words: Boosting Culture and Connection Early
• 9 Free Homeschool Curriculum Options with Daily Lesson Plans
• The 10 Most Impressive Spanish Books to Read Before College (And Why They Matter)
• 10 Simple Spanish Words Your Preschooler Can Learn This Week
• 9 Ways to Keep Your Middle Schooler Engaged in Spanish (Even if They’re Already Fluent)

The post 12 Beginner Spanish Books for Middle School and High School appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

They only seem similar because of how they sound. 

Let’s have a look now at all the shades of meanings of llegar vs llevar with many example sentences. I’ll also show you how to conjugate these -AR verbs in some basic tenses.

Let’s start.

Try out Homeschool Spanish Academy at no risk!
Sign up for your free accredited online Spanish class today.

Llegar Vs llevar – The Basics

You will mainly translate llegar into “to arrive” or “to get,” but you’ll see that is more to this verb, and it often expresses figurative meanings. It is an intransitive verb that doesn’t require a direct object afterward, it will never be followed by who or what.

Mis primos llegaron ayer.

My cousins arrived yesterday.

Llevar, on the other hand, is a transitive verb, and it usually translates into “to take.” Of course, it also has other meanings that I will show you. 

As a transitive verb, it is always followed by a direct object, who, or what.

Lleva el perro al doctor.

Take the dog to the doctor.

Let’s go to the details now of llegar vs llevar. 

Verb Llegar 

I will show you first how to use llegar and how to conjugate it in some basic sentences.

Meaning and Usage of Llegar

As I already mentioned before, llegar mainly translates into “to arrive” and “to get,” let’s see now this and other meanings.

1. To Reach a Place

The easiest meaning to remember is when llegar translates into “to arrive”  or “to get” to a place.

¡Mamá, ya llegué!

Mom, I’m home!

Tus libros llegarán mañana.

Your books will arrive tomorrow.

¿Cuándo llegamos?

When will we arrive?

2. To Be The Time For

You can also use llegar to talk about when things happen in a certain moment.

Y ni nos dimos cuenta cuando llegó el día del ensayo general.

And we didn’t even notice when the day of the dress rehearsal arrived.

Ya quiero que llegue el verano.

I can’t wait for summer to arrive.

3. To Be Sufficient

Llegar also means to be enough

El dinero que recibo no me llega, así que tendré que buscar otro trabajo.

The money I get is not enough, so I will have to look for another job.

4. To Extend

If you use llegar with the preposition a, it can mean to reach something.

El cable no llega, tienes que pasarme uno más largo.

The cable does not reach, you have to give me a longer one.

It can also be used figuratively in this sense.

El precio llegó a su máximo.

The price has reached its maximum.

5. To Get To

Another meaning with the preposition a is to get to something or become someone, used in a figurative meaning.

Así nunca llegarás a ser alguien.

This way, you will never become somebody.

Juntos llegamos a la conclusión que esto no tiene sentido.

Together we came to the conclusion that this makes no sense.

6. To Be Able To

Llegar also means to manage to do something.

¿Llegaste a ver el cantante desde tu lugar?

Did you get to see the singer from your place?

Llegar Expressions 

You can also use llegar in some expressions.

1. Llegar lejos

This expression may be used to predict a bright future for someone. 

Esta chica llegará lejos. 

This girl will go far. 

2. Llegar y besar (el santo)

You’ll use this one to explain the rapidity with which something is done, being successful the first time you do something.

Ayer llegué y besé el santo en el casino. ¡Gané en el bingo y fue mi primera vez!

Yesterday I arrived and kissed the saint in the casino. I won at bingo, and it was my first time!

Conjugation of Llegar

Let’s see how the verb llegar conjugates in the present, past, and future tenses. It’s a -ar verb with very few irregularities that are easy to learn.

Present Tense Conjugation Chart: Llegar

Llegar is regular in the present tense. 

Llegamos mañana a las 4 pm.

We will arrive tomorrow at 4 pm.

El agua llega hasta las rodillas. 

The water reaches our knees.

Preterite Tense Conjugation Chart: Llegar

The verb llegar is regular in all forms of the Spanish preterite tense but the first person singular.

Llegaste justo a tiempo.

You arrived just in time.

Ayer me llegaron juguetes nuevos. 

Yesterday I got new toys.

Future Tense Conjugation Chart: Llegar  

You’ll be happy to hear that llegar is also regular in all forms of the Spanish future simple tense.

¿A qué hora llegarás?

What time will you arrive?

Verb Llevar 

I will show you now how to use llevar and how to conjugate it in some basic sentences.

Meaning and Use of Llevar

As I already mentioned, llevar mainly translates into “to take something,” but it has many other meanings.

1. To Transport

Use llevar to mean to take or carry something from one place to another, or even to give a ride to someone or to escort someone to a place.

Lleva esta ropa a su lugar.

Take these clothes to their place.

Tienes que llevar tus cubiertos al comedor.

You have to take your cutlery to the dining room. 

Me llevas a la estación, por favor. 

Take me to the station, please. 

El portero nos llevó hasta nuestra habitación.

The doorman led us to our room.

2. To Wear

Another common meaning is to wear something.

Me gusta siempre llevar algo negro.

I always like to wear something black.

3. To Spend Time On Something

If you want to say that something “takes” you a certain amount of time, use llevar.

¿Cuánto tiempo lleva llegar hasta la cima?

How long does it take to get to the top?

Llevo cinco horas estudiando y ya no puedo más. 

I have been studying for five hours and I can’t take it anymore. 

4. To Be More Than

Llevar also means to be ahead of something or someone, or to be older.

El piloto mexicano lleva 10 segundos de ventaja.

The Mexican driver is 10 seconds ahead.

Le llevo 4 años a mi hermana.

I am 4 years older than my sister.

5. To Manage

Levar also means to handle something in a literal or figurative sense.

Mi padre lleva la compañía.

My father runs the company.

¿Y cómo llevas lo del divorcio?

And how are you coping with the divorce?

6. To Lead To

In literal meaning, llevar can also mean “to lead to.”

Todos los caminos llevan a Roma.

All the roads lead to Rome.

7. To Have (Auxiliary)

Llevar also can function as an auxiliary verb when used with the past participle.

Llevo leídas cuarenta páginas.

I have read forty pages.  

Llevar expressions 

There are not so many idiomatic expressions with llevar that you will use on a common basis.

1. Llevar consigo

To have it as a consequence or to carry it along. 

El dinero no siempre lleva consigo el estilo.

Money does not always bring style.

Check here other Expressions with llevar.

Conjugation of Llevar

Let’s see how the verb llegar conjugates in the present, past, and future tenses. It’s a regular -ar verb.

Present Tense Conjugation Chart: Llevar

Llevar is regular in the present tense. 

Te llevo si quieres.

If you want, I can give you a ride.

No deberían llevar nada pesado pues es una caminata muy larga.

You should not carry anything that’s too heavy because it is a very long hike.

Preterite Tense Conjugation Chart: Llevar

The verb llevar is regular in all forms of the Spanish preterite tense.

No llevamos nada al cumpleañero.

We didn’t bring anything to the birthday boy.

Su padre llevó la compañía a la bancarrota.

His father drove the company into bankruptcy.

Future Tense Conjugation Chart: Llevar  

You’ll be happy to hear that llevar is also regular in all forms of the Spanish future simple tense.

¿A qué hora llevarán los platos sucios a la cocina?

At what time will you take the dirty dishes to the kitchen?

Check here other forms of conjugation of llevar.

Llegar vs. Llevar  – Multiple-Choice Quiz

Ready to check if you remember all about llegar vs llevar? There’s one correct option for each question.

1. Te _________ al aeropuerto
   1. llevo
   2. llego
2. No deberías _________ este vestido, te va a dar frío.
   1. llevar
   2. llegar
3. ¿Cuánto tardamos en _________?
   1. llevar
   2. llegar
4. Tus libros todavía no _________.
   1. llevan
   2. llegan
5. Ya _________ la primavera.
   1. llevó
   2. llegó
6. Mi marido me _____ cinco años.
   1. lleva
   2. llega
7. No me _________ mi sueldo.
   1. lleva
   2. llega
8. ¿Cómo _________ tu enfermedad?
   1. llevas
   2. llegas
9. ¿Te gustaría _________ la empresa?
   1. llevar
   2. llegar
10. ¿_________ a ver el arco iris?
    1. Llevaste
    2. Llegaste

Keep Practicing Llegar vs Llevar

Did you get it all right? I’m sure you’re motivated right now to keep learning, and llegar vs llevar no longer are troublesome to you.

Why not sign up for a free trial class with Homeschool Spanish Academy? 

Apart from professional benefits, being bilingual has also many advantages in terms of your health—it can delay the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease for example.

What do you get with HSA online Spanish lessons? Native, authentic Spanish instruction and student-tailored Spanish programs. A certified professional teacher will help you with your grammar doubts and fear of speaking.

Sign up now for a free trial class at Homeschool Spanish Academy, practice meter vs poner (and much more!) in a 1-to-1 conversation! 

Check out our affordable pricing and flexible programs!

Hear Your Child Speak Spanish! Your Free Trial Class Is Waiting

Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these…

“This is the best way for your kid to learn Spanish. It’s one-on-one, taught by native Spanish speakers, and uses a curriculum.”

– Sharon K, Parent of 3

“It’s a great way to learn Spanish, from native Spanish speakers in a 1-on-1 environment. It’s been fairly easy to schedule classes around my daughter’s other classes. The best value for us has been ordering multiple classes at a time. All the instructors have been great!”

– Cindy D, Parent of 3

“HSA offers very affordable, quality, one on one classes with a native speaker. My son has greatly benefited from taking classes. We have seen his confidence increase as well as his pronunciation improve, because he learns from a native Spanish speaker. HSA has quick, personal customer service. Our family has been very pleased with our experience so far!”

– Erica P. Parent of 1

Want to learn more Spanish grammar? Check out these posts!

• 25 Essential Spanish Phrases for Everyday Conversations
• Avoiding Embarrassing Mistakes: Common False Friends in Spanish
• Llegar vs Llevar in Spanish: What’s the Difference?
• 10 Essential Ways to Use “Que” in Spanish
• Spanish Preterite vs Imperfect: 25 Online Exercises to Practice Your Skills
• How Spanish Can Boost Your College Applications + 4 Programs that Love Bilingual Students
• How to Finally Roll Your R’s – And Why It’s Not a Big Deal If You Can’t
• 50 Useful Spanish Transition Words for Everyday Speech and Writing

The post Llegar vs Llevar in Spanish: What’s the Difference? appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

It seems like a small and pretty insignificant word, right? 

Well, you’ll be amazed to discover how many different ways you can use it and how its meaning changes depending on how you use it.

“What?!” you may say. 

Yes. Just look back at the title. 

So, keep reading to learn about the extraordinary que, the different ways you can use it, and how a little accent mark on it can change the meaning of a sentence.

Gain confidence in your language skills with our friendly, certified teachers.
Sign up for your no-risk, free-trial Spanish class today.

Say What?

The little word que is one of those ubiquitous pieces of language that seem to hold everything together. 

You can find que everywhere, from questions to conjunctions and interjections. It’s just a fundamental piece of the Spanish language. 

Therefore, you must learn how to use its different meanings properly. 

The best you can do is expose yourself to the language and speak it regularly. You can do that with one of our certified Spanish teachers. We’re sure they’ll be happy to help you master que.

Or you can try to learn the tidbits of grammar here first and apply the theory in your everyday Spanish conversations.

Que and Qué

When looking for the meaning of que, you have to consider if the word has an accent or not.

The word is the same but can be used differently, and the accent plays a critical role.

In a minute, we’ll explore the different meanings of que, but now you must understand that when que has an accent, as in qué, it is because it’s part of a question, an exclamation, or an interjection. 

Look for question or exclamation marks in a sentence; if they are there, it’s likely that the que has a written accent. Spanish speakers call this accent a tilde. 

However, it’s important to mention that the accent means that the word plays a different role in the sentence. 

Let’s dig deeper. You’ll see what I’m talking about. 

What Does “Que” Mean in Spanish?

As explained before, que in Spanish has different meanings. Let’s explore ten of them.

1. What

This might be the definition that people use the most. However, just as in English, you can use “what” in different ways. 

In Spanish, you can also use this version of que in different situations. 

Most times, when que means “what,” it’s part of a question or exclamation and, as such, should be written with an accent.

¿Qué me compraste?

What did you buy me?

¿Qué le pasó a María?

What happened to Maria?

¡Qué gran película!

What a great movie!

¡Qué decepción!

What a disappointment!

Sometimes, qué with an accent and question mark can mean “which,” and qué with an accent and an exclamation mark may mean “how.” 

Those are the next two meanings of que that we’ll focus on. 

2. Which

Although most of the time questions starting with ¿Qué…? translate as “what,” sometimes the proper translation is “which.” 

Take a look at the following examples: 

¿Qué color prefieres, el rojo o el azul?

Which color do you prefer, red or blue?

¿Qué auto es?

Which car is it?

The key to identifying if ¿Qué…? means “what” or “which” is in the Spanish word cuál. 

If you can change qué for cuál in the question, then it definitely means “which.”

¿Cuál color prefieres, el rojo o el azul?

Which color do you prefer, red or blue?

¿Cuál coche es?

Which car is it?

3. How

When you use qué with an accent, it usually means that your sentence is an exclamation or an interjection. 

In the cases mentioned above, ¡Qué…! usually translates as “What…!”. But there are some cases when “How…!” is the best translation. 

Look at these examples: 

¡Qué hermoso!

How beautiful! 

¡Qué maravilloso!

How wonderful!

The actual meaning of que here depends on the adjective used in the sentence. 

So, if you translate a sentence and use “what,” but it sounds off, try “how” to see how that works. 

4. That

One of the most common ways to translate que (without an accent) is as “that.” In this case, the role of que is that of a pronoun used to define a subject or object. 

Esta es la casa que quiero para nosotros. 

This is the house that I want for us. 

La ciudad que más me gustó fue Londres. 

London was the city that I liked the most. 

In some cases, you can also use que in a subjunctive phrase to express a desire or suggestion, and it also translates as “that.”

Te sugiero que te quedes donde estás. 

I suggest that you stay where you are. 

Desearía que nunca te hubieras ido. 

I wish that you’d never left. 

5. Than

When used in a comparison, que in Spanish can also mean “than.”

Su casa es más vieja que la mía. 

His house is older than mine. 

El Real Madrid ha ganado más campeonatos que el Barcelona. 

Real Madrid has won more championships than Barcelona. 

6. To

Another translation for que in Spanish is “to,” and you use it when you compare two different things or more. 

Prefiero Buenos Aires que Montevideo. 

I prefer Buenos Aires to Montevideo. 

Prefiero tacos que hamburguesas. 

I prefer tacos to burgers. 

In some situations, you use que to express a need or requirement. In these cases, que comes after the verb tener or “to have,” which translates as “to.”

Tengo que ir a casa por mi hermana. 

I have to go home to pick up my sister. 

Erika tiene que repetir el año escolar.

Erika has to repeat the school year. 

7. Who, Whom

Other times, que may also mean “who” or “whom” when used to define the subject. 

Este es el hombre que me salvó la vida. 

This is the man who saved my life. 

Hoy vi a una chica con la que solía trabajar. 

I saw a girl today with whom I used to work. 

8. May

In some subjunctive phrases that express wish or desire, you can use que, which translates as “may.” Are there any Star Wars fans out there?

Que la Fuerza te acompañe. 

May the Force be with you. 

Que Dios te bendiga. 

May God bless you. 

9. So

You can use que to talk about cause, finality, or consequence. In this case, it would work as a conjunction that connects two phrases, and it translates as “so.”

Canta un poco, que te escuchen.

Sing a little bit, so they hear you. 

Quería pasar por mi temprano, que mejor madrugué.

He wanted to pick me up early, so I woke up early.

10. Let

Finally, you can also use que to give an order or express a command. 

Que empiecen los juegos.

Let the games begin. 

¡Que lo dejes terminar!

Let him finish!

Some Grammar Structures That Use Que in Spanish

As you can see, there are many ways to use que, and its meaning vary accordingly. 

You can also find que in some compound grammar structures and phrases. This means even more ways to use this word. 

Let’s learn some of them and their meanings in English: 

These are just some of the ways to use que.

¿Qué te parece?

This means, “What do you think?” It isn’t that hard, right? 

We know. Sometimes you may confuse one use with another, but you’ll get them all right with time and practice. 

Remember that the important thing is to practice. The best way to learn is through experience. 

So, we invite you to sign up for a free trial class with one of our certified, native Spanish-speaking teachers from Guatemala and start using que in all its different ways from day one.

Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these…

“This is the best way for your kid to learn Spanish. It’s one-on-one, taught by native Spanish speakers, and uses a curriculum.”

– Sharon K, Parent of 3

“It’s a great way to learn Spanish, from native Spanish speakers in a 1-on-1 environment. It’s been fairly easy to schedule classes around my daughter’s other classes. The best value for us has been ordering multiple classes at a time. All the instructors have been great!”

– Cindy D, Parent of 3

“HSA offers very affordable, quality, one on one classes with a native speaker. My son has greatly benefited from taking classes. We have seen his confidence increase as well as his pronunciation improve, because he learns from a native Spanish speaker. HSA has quick, personal customer service. Our family has been very pleased with our experience so far!”

– Erica P. Parent of 1

Ready to learn more Spanish grammar? Check these out!

• 25 Essential Spanish Phrases for Everyday Conversations
• Avoiding Embarrassing Mistakes: Common False Friends in Spanish
• Llegar vs Llevar in Spanish: What’s the Difference?
• 10 Essential Ways to Use “Que” in Spanish
• Spanish Preterite vs Imperfect: 25 Online Exercises to Practice Your Skills
• 50 Useful Spanish Transition Words for Everyday Speech and Writing
• Master the 18 Spanish Tenses (and Take Our Cheat Sheet With You)
• All About Adverbial Clauses in Spanish

The post 10 Essential Ways to Use “Que” in Spanish appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

Put on your grammar goggles, and let’s get into the nitty-gritty details of these two verbs!

Join more than 559 million people on the planet who speak Spanish!
Sign up for your free trial Spanish class today.

Preterite vs Imperfect: Definitions and Meaning

Native English speakers have a hard time telling the difference between these two past tense verbs because we don’t use them the same way that Spanish speakers do. The good news is that we can break it down into simple and useful comparisons.

For example, the preterite verb expresses an action that began in the past and also ended in the past, with a clear finish time, while the imperfect verb refers to an action that was happening or used to happen and has no clear ending.

Additionally, the preterite tense can describe an action that interrupts an imperfect tense action, like él me llamó cuando leía el periódico (he called me when I was reading the newspaper).

To put it more clearly, think of these two comparisons:

• what you did (preterite) vs (imperfect) what you were doing
• what happened (preterite) vs (imperfect) what used to happen

What You Did vs What You Were Doing

An action that began in the past and has a clear ending is “what you did.” Examples of this in Spanish are:

Me comí la ultima galleta.
I ate the last cookie. (I ate the cookie once, it was a definite action.)

Tuve seis llamadas entre las 2 y 4 de la tarde.
I received six calls between 2 and 4 pm. (The calls started and ended at an exact time.)

Ella hizo su mayor esfuerzo para alcanzar el estante de arriba.
She tried her hardest to reach the top shelf. (She tried and then stopped.)

Tu hija cantó muy bien en su obra de teatro.
Your daughter sang really well in her play. (She sang only during the play.)

Take the examples above and try to replace the verb with the imperfect tense. You’ll notice they all sound pretty strange, even in English. After a while, the intuitive sense you get about English grammar will come naturally as you speak Spanish. It just requires practice!

Now, let’s talk about the imperfect again. It describes a past action that is still going on and doesn’t have a clear end. This is “what you were doing.”

For example:

Cuando la conocí, ella enseñaba español.
When I met her, she was teaching Spanish. (She was teaching Spanish and could still be teaching it.)

Limpiabas la casa tantas veces sin usar desinfectante.
You cleaned the house so many times without using disinfectant. (You were doing it that way and maybe still are.)

Todas las semanas yo pedía comida china.
Every week I ordered Chinese food. (I was doing this before without any clear indication that I no longer do it.)

What Happened vs What Used to Happen

A common way to translate the imperfect verb tense into English is to insert “used to,” implying that the action once happened on a recurring basis. For example: 

I used to fish with my grandfather.

Pescaba con mi abuelo.

Whereas, if you were to say “I only fished once with my grandfather,” then you’d use the preterite tense to define the end of the activity: Pesqué solo una vez con mi abuelo.

As we mentioned before, when combining these two tenses in a sentence, the preterite describes an interrupting action, while the imperfect describes the interrupted action. Let’s take a look at some examples:

Me bronceaba cuando empezó a llover.
I was sunbathing when it started to rain.

Mientras ella trabajaba, su jefe la llamó.
While she was working, her boss called her.

Me di cuenta que hacía frío.
I realized it was cold.

Spanish Verbs that Change Meaning Depending on the Tense

At least 7 common verbs change meaning depending on which tense is being used. They are important to memorize so that you’re aware of what you’re saying when you use them. 

Conocer

Preterite: yo la conocí (I met her).

Imperfect: yo la conocía (I knew her).

Saber

Preterite: tú lo supiste (You figured it out).

Imperfect: tú lo sabías (You knew it).

Tener

Preterite: él tuvo un regalo de su esposa (he received a gift from his wife).

Imperfect: él tenía un regalo de su esposa (he had a gift from his wife).

Querer

Preterite: ella quiso ver la película (she tried to see the movie).

Imperfect: ella quería ver la película (she wanted to see the movie).

No Querer

Preterite: no quisimos hacer la tarea (we refused to do the homework).

Imperfect: no queríamos jugar pelota (we didn’t want to play ball).

Poder

Preterite: ustedes pudieron comprar la casa (you all succeeded in buying the house)

Imperfect: ustedes podían negociar el precio (you all were able to negotiate the price)

No Poder

Preterite: ellos no pudieron arreglar la computadora (they failed at fixing the computer).

Imperfect: ellos no podían encontrar sus herramientas (they weren’t able to find their tools).

Quiz Yourself!

Here’s your chance to shine! You’ve mastered the conjugations and studied hard to know when to use them. Now, it’s time to put that knowledge into practice! Jot down your answers in a notebook or download our PDF to quiz yourself on paper. Check your answers down below.

Preterite vs Imperfect Quiz

Pick the correct answer.

1. _______ el piano con mi abuelo con frecuencia.
   
   1. Tocaba
   2. Toqué
      
2. El otro día, _______ semillas en mi jardín.
   
   1. sembraba
   2. sembré
      
3. Nunca me _______ el color verde.
   
   1. gustaba
   2. gustó
      
4. Él siempre _______ su tarea en su cuarto.
   
   1. hacía
   2. hizo
      
5. El mes pasado, me _______ y _______.
   
   1. resbalé, caí
   2. resbalé, caía
   3. resbalaba, caí
   4. resbalaba, caía
      
6. Cuando yo _______ niña, _______ pizza todos los días.
   
   1. estaba, comía
   2. era, comí
   3. fui, comía
   4. era, comía
      
7. Cuando me _______, yo _______ inglés en el colegio.
   
   1. conociste, enseñaba
   2. conocías, enseñaba
   3. conociste, enseñé
   4. conocías, enseñé
      
8. Yo _______ libros de fantasía cuando _______ aburrido.
   
   1. leí, estaba
   2. leía, estaba
   3. leí, estuve
   4. leía, estuve
      
9. Mientras tú _______, tu mama te _______.
   
   1. trabajaste, llamó
   2. trabajabas, llamó
   3. trabajaste, llamaba
   4. trabajabas, llamaba
      
10. Yo _______ la manzana cuando _______ el gusano adentro.
    
    1. comí, vi
    2. comía, vi
    3. comí, veía
    4. comía, veía

Fill in the blank.

1. Yo _______ revistas. (I used to read magazines)
2. Ella _______ mi madre. (She met my mom)
3. _______ comprar un carro, pero no _______ el perfecto. (I wanted to buy a car, but I didn’t find the perfect one)
4. Nosotros _______ todos los días. (We used to walk every day)
5. Ustedes me _______ ayer. (You all called me yesterday)
6. Ella _______ el helado. (She ate the ice cream)
7. Cuando _______ niña, le _______ jugar futbol. (When she was little, she liked playing soccer)
8. Nosotros _______ una carta de nuestra abuela. (We received a letter from our grandma) (hint: tener)
9. El _______ la verdad. (He figured out the truth)
10. Usted _______ subir la montaña. (You tried to climb the mountain) (hint: querer)

Translate English to Spanish

1. Yesterday I fell. 
2. She worked from 8 to 5.
3. He used to call me every day.
4. When I was a child, I wanted to be a teacher.
5. My brother called me while I was cooking.
6. We used to dance together.
7. I wanted to go to college.
   

Correct or Incorrect?

1. Caminaba en la calle cuando la vi.
2. Ayer me levantaba a las seis.
3. Siempre comí tortillas con mis abuelos.
4. Nosotros pudimos cocinar el pastel.
5. La película empezaba a las 8.
6. Nunca leía el periódico cuando fui niño.
7. Ella hizo mi tarea por años.
8. Miraba tele cuando me mandaste un texto.

Click here to see the answer key!

Practice Your Conversation

I’m sure you did a great job on this preterite vs imperfect quiz! No matter where you’re at on your journey to Spanish fluency, having a conversation in your target language is a necessary skill to practice. If you’re looking for a friendly professional Spanish teacher, try one of our certified native Spanish-speaking teachers at Homeschool Spanish Academy. Sign up for a free trial today and give yourself the key to fluency!

Want more excellent Spanish grammar resources? Check out our recent posts!

• 25 Essential Spanish Phrases for Everyday Conversations
• Avoiding Embarrassing Mistakes: Common False Friends in Spanish
• Llegar vs Llevar in Spanish: What’s the Difference?
• 10 Essential Ways to Use “Que” in Spanish
• Spanish Preterite vs Imperfect: 25 Online Exercises to Practice Your Skills
• 50 Useful Spanish Transition Words for Everyday Speech and Writing
• Master the 18 Spanish Tenses (and Take Our Cheat Sheet With You)
• All About Adverbial Clauses in Spanish

ANSWER KEY

Pick the correct answer.

1. Tocaba
2. sembré
3. gustaba
4. hacía
5. resbalé, caí
6. era, comía
7. conociste, enseñaba
8. leía, estuve
9. trabajaste, llamó
10. comía, vi

Fill in the blank.

1. leía
2. conoció
3. Quise, encontré
4. caminabamos
5. llamaron
6. comió
7. era, gustaba
8. tuvimos
9. supo
10. quiso

Translate English to Spanish

1. Ayer me caí.
2. Ella trabajó de 8 a 5.
3. Él me llamaba todos los días.
4. Cuando era niño, quería ser maestro.
5. Mi hermano me llamó mientras cocinaba.
6. Bailábamos juntos.
7. Quería ir a la universidad.

Correct or Incorrect?

1. Correct
2. Incorrect – Ayer me levanté a las seis.
3. Incorrect – Siempre comía tortillas con mis abuelos.
4. Correct
5. Incorrect – La película empezó a las 8.
6. Incorrect – Nunca leía el periódico cuando era niño.
7. Incorrect – Ella hacía mi tarea por años.
8. Correct

The post Spanish Preterite vs Imperfect: 25 Online Exercises to Practice Your Skills appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

If your elementary-aged child already knows a few basic words and phrases but isn’t quite speaking in full sentences yet, you might be wondering what to do next. Should you wait for more vocabulary to build up? Or is it time to help them move into actual conversation?

Here’s the good news: there’s a clear, effective next step, and it’s simpler than you might think. Real conversations!

Vocabulary Is Just the First Layer

Learning vocabulary is like collecting building blocks. It’s necessary, but it doesn’t make a complete structure on its own. To become conversational, children need to understand how to use those blocks together, in context, and in real time.

Many parents hit this same roadblock. Their child can count to twenty, list the days of the week, and maybe sing a song or two, but freezes when asked a question like “¿Qué te gusta?” or “¿Cómo estás hoy?”

That’s totally normal and fixable.

According to a report from the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages, language learners are more likely to retain and apply vocabulary when it is used in communicative settings that simulate real-life interactions.

In other words, your child needs conversation practice, not just more words.

Why the Gap Happens—and What Closes It

Elementary learners often pick up vocabulary through songs, games, and repetition. But without regular, structured speaking opportunities, that vocabulary stays passive. What closes the gap is consistent, low-pressure conversation practice in an environment where your child feels supported and not judged.

That’s where a paired (2-on-1) Spanish class comes in.

At Homeschool Spanish Academy, these small-format classes match your child with another learner of a similar level and age. It’s an ideal setup for kids who already know a little Spanish but need help turning that knowledge into real communication.

The Conversation Boost: 3 Ways Paired Classes Move Kids from Words to Sentences

1. Real Dialogue Practice with a Peer

Unlike one-on-one sessions where your child might feel on the spot, paired classes give them the chance to speak with another student in a casual, friendly way. They learn how to respond, ask questions, and build on what they hear, all essential skills for real-life fluency.

2. Modeling and Mimicking

When children see a peer using familiar vocabulary in sentences, they often pick it up faster. One student might say, “Me gusta el helado,” and the other thinks, Oh! I know those words. I can say that, too! This peer modeling makes conversation feel attainable.

3. Gentle Confidence Building

Speaking up is easier when it doesn’t feel like a test. In a paired setting, kids aren’t being drilled. They’re chatting, playing, and helping each other. That makes it much easier for shy or hesitant speakers to join in.

Practical Ways to Support Conversation Practice at Home

Even if you don’t speak Spanish yourself, you can encourage your child to move beyond vocabulary lists and start speaking in simple sentences. Try adding these habits to your week:

1. Ask Open-Ended Questions Using Spanish Prompts

Instead of just reviewing flashcards, ask your child, “¿Qué te gusta comer?” or “¿Cuál es tu color favorito?” Even if they respond in English at first, model a simple Spanish answer and encourage them to try.

2. Turn Everyday Tasks into Spanish Moments

While setting the table, you can say, “Dos platos, por favor.” Ask, “¿Dónde está la cuchara?” Make Spanish part of your routine. It helps normalize using it in context.

3. Create a “Spanish Sharing” Moment

Once a week, let your child share a story, sentence, or song they learned in class. Let them be the expert, and celebrate their effort.

4. Sign Up for a Free Paired Class

The best way to move from memorizing to speaking is with guided practice and peer connection. Click here to book a free trial class and see how your child responds when they’re gently encouraged to use what they know in conversation.

Final Thoughts: Moving from Knowing to Speaking

Your child has already done the hard part—they’ve shown interest, picked up some vocabulary, and started building a foundation. Now it’s time to help them take the next step: using those words to express thoughts, ideas, and feelings.

And the key isn’t more drills or longer homework. It’s conversation. With just the right amount of structure, a friendly peer, and the freedom to practice speaking without pressure, your child can blossom into a confident Spanish speaker.

Language is meant to be shared, and with the right setting, your child will start doing just that.

Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these

“It’s great being able to interact with native speaking people and having a conversation with them not just doing all the work on paper. It’s also an amazing opportunity to speak with native Spanish-speaking people without having to travel to a native Spanish-speaking country.”

– Melanie

“Getting to know wonderful teachers who care about me and my growth in language and education. Evelyn Gomez and Erick Cacao are two of the most extraordinary people I have ever met, and talking with them in Spanish at the beginning of classes is always so fulfilling and greatly contributes to my happiness, joy, and wellbeing.”

– Abby

“I love that my children have the opportunity to speak with a live person. They get to practice Spanish in a 1-1 setting while improve their speaking, writing and reading skills during their lessons. HSA is a great way to learn Spanish for all ages! My children are 6, 9 and 11. My oldest two (9 and 11) have been taking classes with HSA for almost 2 years now. They love seeing their teacher each week. They understand the importance of learning several languages. I’ve seen them grow and learn with HSA. I’m excited to see how they will improve the more classes they take. I highly recommend them. You can’t bet learning and speaking with a live teacher. I’ve tried other programs. It’s just not as motivating.”

– Karie Ann, Parent of 3

Want more lists and Spanish Vocabulary? Check these out!

• From Snacks to Dinners: Spanish Vocabulary for Food That Teens Actually Talk About
• What to Say When You’re Not Sure What to Say – in Spanish!
• Real Spanish for Real Life: Top Beginner Phrases
• Your Child Knows Some Spanish Words, Now What? How to Turn Vocabulary Into Real Conversations
• 29 Cool and Catchy Spanish Phrases To Use With Friends [+Audio]
• Fun Ways to Practice Spanish with Family (Even If Everyone’s at Different Levels)
• 10 Simple Spanish Words Your Preschooler Can Learn This Week
• The 25 Most Useful Spanish Phrases You Need to Learn Today

The post Your Child Knows Some Spanish Words, Now What? How to Turn Vocabulary Into Real Conversations appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.