There are different benefits to learning a new language. As you practice, many parts of your brain work together, strengthening neural connections and improving cognitive functions like memory, resilience, and the sense of achievement.

It’s one of the best workouts for your brain. After all, when you learn a new language, you practice skills such as listening, speaking, writing, reading, grammar, vocabulary, etc. 

As a plus benefit, it slows down the brain’s aging! 

Also, students become more open, tend to learn from mistakes easier, and are even more tolerant and accepting of other cultures and perspectives.

In the future, they will be able to travel to new places and talk with the locals; Spanish is the official language of 21 countries, and there are nearly 500 million Spanish speakers in the world.

But are children better at it? Even though you can learn a new language at any stage of your life and have all the benefits from this experience, you will realize that the neuroplasticity preschoolers have better than ours. 

This means they can learn languages and mimic new phonetics faster and better. 

These five ways of introducing Spanish to preschoolers are not only fun but memorable as well. 

In this article, you will find activities, tips, songs, and other resources to help your little ones on this journey. 

¡Enseña español desde hoy! Teach them Spanish, starting today! 

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Sign up for your free trial Spanish class today.

1. Spanish for Preschoolers: Songs and Rhymes

Teaching Spanish to preschoolers can be easy and effective using the right resources. 

Singing songs in Spanish can help kids with their language comprehension skills, broaden their vocabulary, and strengthen their memory. 

You can teach them numbers, colors, and the names of animals before moving into more elaborate things. 

Here are some resources and ideas:

• Los números del 1 al 10. With this song, kids will have a chance to learn not just numbers but lots of new words. However, if you’re looking for something more advanced, you can use the following song: Los números.
• The Colors in Spanish. This video is in English and Spanish so that children can sing it in both languages, which will help them know the meaning of the words.  
• The Farm Animals in Spanish. Do your kids like animals? Then, this song’s perfect for them; with it, they can take their first steps into the Spanish world!

See next: Spanish Rhymes for Kids Who Love to Learn

If you want to introduce your kids to a new culture, you can show them songs from different countries. Here are some from Mexico, Spain, and Colombia:

• Mexico: Tatiana – El patio de mi casa. It’s a good idea to divide this song into chunks. Toddlers can learn the chorus first, and as they grow older, they can learn and practice the rest of the song, as it’s a bit more complicated.
• Spain: Melody – El baile del gorila. This one is a timeless hit in Spain and incorporates a small choreography to make it more fun!
• Colombia: Cangrejo – Centro de formación Colombia canta. Cangrejo is a catchy and cute song. It has lots of repetition, meaning students will easily memorize it. Also, this one is great for younger kids. 

Read also: 15 Super Popular Spanish Songs for Kindergarten

2. Spanish for Preschoolers: Games and Activities

Spanish for preschoolers can be a complete experience. Learning games can trick the minds of young students into having fun while mastering vocabulary and grammar. 

Here are some ideas you can use:

• Memory game: You can put together some cards with images and words to play a memory game; in Spanish, people call it memorama. Open up two matching cards at a time to win. Printable PDFs like this one can help with the task, but if you’re looking for something you can buy or more original, here are 7 Amusing  Spanish Memory Games for Kids. 
• Scavenger hunt: There are two ways of playing this one. First, hide toys all over the house or in your classroom. Kids can only win if they find them and can name them all. Name themselves and see if they can relate the word to the toy.
• Flashcards: Help your students with some visual aids. Play with traditional flashcards but with a twist. For example, ask your children to draw on side B what the flashcard says on side A. 
• Puppet show: Put on a show of Spanish for preschoolers! You can buy, make, or improvise puppets with a pair of socks and buttons and use them to teach your lessons. Ask your children to repeat or interact with these characters in Spanish. 
• Workbooks: Use this Complete Spanish Textbook for Kids to keep them sharp and entertained. It is perfect for 5-year-olds.  

Keep exploring: 8 Traditional Hispanic Games to Play at Home or in Class

3. Spanish for Preschoolers: Books and Stories

Teaching preschool Spanish requires using all the resources you can to keep kids’ interest and attention. But books and stories can develop one of the greatest habits: reading. 

Kids who see their parents and teachers holding a book will likely imitate them. 

So, let’s start with the basics!

Before committing to bedtime stories that involve a lot of grammar and conjugations, let’s go with these:

The Feelings Book

The Feelings Book is truly a work of art! Because it helps children learn Spanish and emotional intelligence at the same time. 

It sounds like a difficult task, but this piece of literature can help you with it.  

Let the New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Todd Parr teach your kids about emotions, feelings, moods, and basic Spanish sentences. 

Ages 3-6.

My First English – Español Learning Library

These are 10 Spanish books for preschoolers you need on your shelf. They include everyday subjects and are categorized for everyday lessons. 

Here you can find shapes, pets, numbers, colors, wild and farm animals, birds, fruits, alphabet, vegetables, etc. This box set is perfect for kids ages 0-3. 

Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes – Cabeza, Hombros, Piernas, Pies

This book is a combination of singing, rhymes, and reading. It is perfect for kids ages 0-3 and has won several awards!

You probably recognize the title, and as you can see, it also has a Spanish version. 

If your kids are little, you can also use it to stimulate their creativity, as they must name parts of the body. 

See also: Awesome Spanish Books for Preschool Kids Who Love Read Alouds

4. Spanish for Preschoolers: Videos and Online Resources 

This is the best moment to learn a new language, considering all the videos and online resources we can access. 

The number of assets you can find on the Internet will help your kids learn more about the Spanish language and culture. For example, your students can learn to count in Spanish, play novice-level Spanish games, or even watch a Salsa series to get used to Spanish phonetics.

For more ideas, check out these 10 websites that offer Spanish lesson plans for toddlers, or if you’re thinking about buying a tablet, follow this link first: 6 Bilingual Spanish English Learning Tablets for Kids.

5. Spanish for Preschoolers: Cooking and Shopping

Practice speaking Spanish with your child in everyday activities, such as cooking, shopping, cleaning the house, getting dressed, and more. 

You can pretend to do some activities like going to the doctor, the vet, or the market and create conversations from it.

Remember to have fun while doing it!

What’s the best way to teach Spanish? By taking little moments throughout the day and turning them into valuable lessons. 

Speaking Spanish at home is one of the most effective tools for learning. 

Here are some cooking vocabulary words if you’re thinking about making a pie while you practice Spanish with your kids. Or you can use the following “Exploring My Neighborhood” class to go out and discover what’s around the corner! 

Spanish for Preschoolers: Taking the Next Steps

We’re sure you want to take the next step toward teaching Spanish to preschoolers after all the resources we’ve shared with you today. 

If you’re looking for optimal parent-child lessons, homeschooling, or traditional classroom teaching, here is the best advice: Get native, authentic Spanish instruction! 

Real human connection with someone who is a native Spanish speaker can make all the difference for your children’s learning.

Our expert-certified curriculum is innovative and has human-centered learning strategies.

We’ve been teaching Spanish for the last ten years, which is why people love our 5-star Spanish program. 

Get a unique experience with student-tailored Spanish programs and flexible scheduling. 

Parents voted us the “Best Overall Online Spanish Classes for Kids” because students speak Spanish from their first class!

We can’t wait for you to join us! Achieve learner-specific language goals starting with a free online Spanish class today!

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 free Spanish fun content? 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 5 Fun and Engaging Ways to Introduce Spanish to Your Preschooler appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

Yes! 

It can take you some time to find trustworthy free homeschool lesson plans, but it’s true, you can homeschool your kid without having to break the bank. You can find complete packages for specific grades, PDF printables for specific subjects, free homeschool lesson plans, all types of worksheets, and even materials and kits that you can get by mail.

Here are my favorite options for a free homeschool curriculum with daily lesson plans.

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

There are free categories here of the free printable homeschool curriculums with lesson plans. 

The first one is for parents of the youngest homeschoolers—preschool, kindergarten, and elementary. The second section includes complete K-12 curricula that you may use for free while homeschooling kids of any age. And last but not least, I threw in some subject or topic-specific curricula with daily lesson plans.

Best Kindergarten and Elementary Free Homeschool Curricula

Some parents like to be spontaneous while homeschooling the youngest kids but they’re also afraid that they might miss some important skills or that their kids will not reach the required standards in all areas. 

Here are some free homeschool curricula with daily lesson plans for parents of kindergarten and elementary students.

1. Under the Home 

Under the Home is a completely free curriculum for kindergarten through grade 6. The website is child-safe and ad-free, and you don’t have to purchase any additional textbooks. All you’ll need are typical school supplies.

The whole curriculum provides free access to digital copies of materials in the spirit of Charlotte Mason. It uses well-known methodologies such as Ray’s Arithmetic and McGuffey’s Readers.

Their mission is to make homeschooling easier for busy families. 

The lesson plans minimize the parents’ preparation. They’re almost ready-to-go materials. The website provides approximate grade levels and weekly schedules for a standard 36-week school schedule that adapts easily to 4 or 5-day homeschooling weeks. You can also download Home Instruction Plan if you need to present it to any authorities. No tests are included in the curriculum.

You can download the full Curriculum Guide to see if Under the Home is for you. 

2. Learn at Home Preschool Lesson Plans Collection

These preschool daily lesson plans cover the entire year of education, and new ones are added all the time. They have been divided into 46+ themes that you can download individually for free,e or you can pay 20$ to download the Preschool Lesson Plans Bundle.

All the activities are quick, easy, and require very little preparation.

They were designed in 2020 for parents who were suddenly left alone with their kids’ education. Each thematic plan comes with a sample schedule you may use with your preschooler and includes Literacy, Math & Science, Playful Learning, Social Emotional, Just Plain Fun, and Get Online sections. 

The creators believe in intentional teaching and creating purposeful learning opportunities for children

No tests are included, but there are questions provided for each topic to check your kids’ understanding.

3. Keeping My Kiddo Busy

Keeping My Kiddo Busy provides detailed free lesson plans for your homeschooler in kindergarten. It’s a consistent, standards-based resource that covers the entire school year.

The curriculum is designed by a former kindergarten teacher, Michala, who is currently homeschooling her own children. Download the curriculum map to see what you may expect in each month of the year. Then, click on the month and download the daily plan.

Every day of her free kindergarten curriculum lesson plans comes with:

• Morning Work
• Phonics
• Math
• Reading Enrichment
• Centers
• Writing

Every activity has a link that you may use to get free or paid additional materials. No tests are provided.

Free Complete Homeschool Curriculum with Daily Lesson Plans for K-12

If your kid is already older or you want a curriculum that will accompany your child for their whole education, here are some options for a free homeschool curriculum with daily lesson plans from kindergarten through high school.

4. Ambleside Online 

Ambleside Online provides a curriculum, daily schedule, and booklist for each year of your child’s education.

Amblesides gives you weekly schedules to provide flexibility for families with longer or shorter week schedules. The lessons follow as closely as possible Charlotte Mason’s methodology and require concentrated effort for short periods of time. 

The plans also suggest whether the activity should be done early in the morning or later during the day. The exams are included in the schedules.

All the books recommended by the program can be found online for free. The site also offers tips for beginners, so parents new to homeschooling will get help.

The website may give you an impression of being outdated and hard to navigate,e but so many parents swear by it that you should give it a try too.

5. Easy-Peasy All-in-One Homeschool

Easy-Peasy All-in-One Homeschool is probably one of the best-known options for an online, free homeschool curriculum with daily lesson plans. And it’s worth giving it a try. Their mission is to make homeschooling available for families that may lack finances, time, or know-how. 

It offers a Christian, free homeschool curriculum for Pre-K through 8th grade, but there is a sister website that covers the high school period.  

All you have to do is choose a year, and your kid will be able to access assignments, and the site will track their lessons. No job for you apart from printing some materials for younger students.

There’s also a store available where you could purchase offline courses for math, reading, and language arts.

The site also offers placement tests for newcomers and other assessments for high school students.

6. Old-Fashioned Education

Old-fashioned education provides a Fundamental Christian curriculum with copyright-free resources linked by subject. Each grade offers plans for 40 weeks that cover Bible Study, Arithmetic, Science, Language Arts, Literature, Biography, Historical Novels, History, and Social Studies.

The website offers education from a Christian WorldView and may be hard to follow for families with other values. It also has a strict routine and schedule.

The motto by which the website swears comes from Proverbs 20:11—”Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.”

No tests are provided.

If you don’t think this curriculum is for you, have a look at their free online books section. It can always be useful!

Subject-Specific Free Homeschool Curriculum With Daily Lesson Plans

Are you looking for a free homeschool curriculum with daily lesson plans just for specific subjects? Here are some options.

7. Mrs. Karle’s Sight and Sound Reading Lessons 

Teaching reading? This site is a real gem.

For free, you can download an app with 120  days of reading lessons/videos that explicitly teach reading, starting with sight words and later adding phonics. You can also sign up and get detailed daily instructions by mail if you don’t want to use the app. 

You can also download a beautiful and colorful workbook with daily practice reading as well as a free starter kit to teach beginner or struggling readers.

8. Homeschool Math

This site may not look attractive at first glance, but it’s a wonderful resource for a free Math curriculum with weekly and daily plans.

It comes with observation profiles, assessment resources, week-by-week activities for every day, and teaching strategies for K-2 students.

The content was originally published by the North Carolina State Board of Education. On the site, you can also download free lessons and free worksheets for students up to 7th grade, as well as games and activities. 

9. Daily Grammar

Need help with a free grammar curriculum?

Daily grammar tells you what to study in this area during 440 lessons. With this site, you can simply add a lesson a day and have enough material for several years.

The first 90 lessons cover the eight parts of speech, lessons 91-300 teach parts of the sentence, and the last set focuses on the mechanics of grammar.

Every 5th lesson, there is a quiz to assess your child’s understanding.

If you feel like you still need more free homeschool curriculum options and other free resources, have a look at the following websites.

• 8 Free Language Arts Curriculum Options for Elementary Homeschool
• Top 11 Websites for Free Homeschooling Materials
• 11 Best Websites for Free Homeschooling Worksheets

Any Questions About Free Homeschool Curriculum With Daily Lesson Plans?

I’m sure that by now, you’ve already chosen your favorites among all the options for a free homeschool curriculum with daily lesson plans. However, if you still have a question, comment below.

You can also leave a review if you have already used any of the above curricula and want to share your experience with other homeschooling families.

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 hand-picked homeschool resources? Check these out!

• Why 2-on-1 Spanish Classes Work Better for Beginners (Especially Middle Schoolers)
• How to Know If Your Child’s Spanish Program Is Working: 3 Signs of Real Progress
• Your Teen’s First 6 Months of Spanish: What to Expect and How to Support Them
• Equipping Your Child for Fluency: 8 Tips for Teaching Spanish
• Ways to Promote Internet Safety for Kids While Learning Online
• 7 Spanish Reading Games for Kids: Boosting Literacy Skills
• Spanish Curriculum Must-Haves: What Makes a Program Preschool-Friendly
• K-8 Spanish Success: The Natural Path to Bilingual Proficiency

The post 9 Free Homeschool Curriculum Options with Daily Lesson Plans appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

As a mom, you want to give your child every advantage — whether that’s in school, future career opportunities, or cultural awareness. Choosing the right language is a big decision, and it makes sense to explore both options. But before you decide, let’s take a closer look at why Spanish may offer more lasting value than French.

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

1. Spanish Is More Widely Spoken — at Home and Around the World

One of the first things to consider in the French vs Spanish debate is how many people speak each language. Spanish is the second most spoken language in the world by native speakers, with over 500 million people speaking it daily. In contrast, French has around 300 million speakers worldwide, many of whom speak it as a second language.

In the United States alone, Spanish is by far the most commonly spoken language after English. That means children who speak Spanish will have more opportunities to use their skills right in their own communities. Whether it’s making friends, traveling, or exploring new cultures, Spanish connects children to more people in everyday life.

2. Spanish Creates More Academic and Career Opportunities

As you weigh French vs Spanish for your child’s future, think beyond elementary school. Spanish fluency opens more doors in higher education and professional life. Many schools offer Spanish tracks and bilingual diplomas that focus on real-world communication.

Moreover, employers in fields like healthcare, education, business, and social work actively seek candidates who can speak Spanish. Given the large Spanish-speaking population in the U.S., having strong Spanish skills gives your child a competitive advantage in many careers.

3. Spanish Is Easier for Young Beginners to Learn and Use

When comparing French vs Spanish, many parents are surprised to learn that Spanish is generally easier to learn, especially for English speakers. Spanish has clear pronunciation rules and more consistent spelling, making it easier for children to start speaking and reading quickly.

Unlike French, which has complex pronunciation and many silent letters, Spanish words are spoken as they are written. For young learners, this makes Spanish less frustrating and more rewarding, especially when they are just beginning to build confidence in speaking.

4. Spanish Offers Immediate Cultural Relevance

Choosing French vs Spanish also comes down to cultural connection. Spanish culture is all around us — in music, television, books, and even food. Children who learn Spanish can immediately connect to things they see and hear every day, making learning more exciting and relevant.

From popular music to family-friendly shows, Spanish offers more accessible and fun ways to reinforce language learning outside of class. This everyday exposure helps children stay motivated and engaged, which is crucial for long-term success.

5. Spanish Learning Resources Are More Accessible and Affordable

If you’re planning to support your child’s learning at home, Spanish simply has more resources available. There are more Spanish books, educational games, videos, and online programs designed for young learners than for French.

In addition, finding qualified Spanish teachers for kids is often easier and more affordable. Since Spanish is in high demand, many programs offer 1-on-1 Spanish lessons that are customized, engaging, and flexible. That means you can easily fit high-quality Spanish instruction into your family’s schedule, whether you homeschool or supplement school learning.

6. Spanish Connects to Growing Communities

Looking at French vs Spanish in the context of the U.S. and other parts of the world, Spanish-speaking communities are growing rapidly. Your child will be able to engage with peers, neighbors, and future colleagues who speak Spanish as a first language.

This connection isn’t just about language — it’s about building friendships, understanding other cultures, and becoming a global citizen. Teaching your child Spanish equips them to navigate a world that is more interconnected than ever before.

7. Spanish Supports Cognitive Development and Confidence

Finally, when deciding French vs Spanish, remember that learning a second language builds cognitive flexibility, problem-solving skills, and creativity. But Spanish allows kids to reach conversational levels faster, giving them a confidence boost that encourages continued learning.

When children see that they can communicate with others, their motivation soars. Early success leads to lasting interest, and Spanish offers more opportunities to practice with real people — both in daily life and in structured lessons.

Ready to Choose the Language That Sets Your Child Up for Success?

While both French and Spanish are beautiful languages with rich cultures, Spanish offers more long-term advantages for your child’s future. From broader communication opportunities to real-world benefits in school and career, Spanish is the smarter investment — especially for young beginners.

If you’re ready to see how Spanish can transform your child’s learning journey, we invite you to try a free trial class with our certified, kid-friendly Spanish teachers. Our 1-on-1 online lessons are designed to make Spanish fun, engaging, and effective — even for complete beginners.

Click here to book your free class today and start your child’s path to Spanish fluency!

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? 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 French vs Spanish: 7 Reasons Spanish Could Be a Strong Long-Term Investment appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

The good news is that maintaining Spanish fluency doesn’t have to mean more lessons, long hours of study, or expensive programs. There are many fun and simple ways to keep your child engaged with Spanish at home — even if you don’t speak Spanish yourself.

In this post, you’ll discover seven creative ways to maintain Spanish fluency that are perfect for young learners. These ideas fit naturally into family life and keep Spanish fun, so your child continues building fluency with ease.

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

Why Maintaining Spanish Fluency Matters for Young Learners

Before diving into the activities, it’s important to understand why maintaining Spanish fluency is crucial, especially for elementary-aged children. Kids at this age are still developing confidence in speaking and understanding a new language. If too much time passes without practice, they can lose both vocabulary and motivation.

Instead of stopping and starting, finding ways to maintain Spanish fluency allows children to keep what they’ve learned fresh in their minds. It also builds long-term habits that make Spanish a natural part of their daily routine. This way, your child will not only remember what they’ve learned but also continue growing in confidence and ability.

Creative Ways to Maintain Spanish Fluency at Home

1. Turn Storytime into Spanish Time

Reading together is one of the easiest ways to maintain Spanish fluency for kids. Choose Spanish picture books or bilingual books that match your child’s level. If you don’t speak Spanish, many books come with audio versions so your child can hear native pronunciation. Making Spanish part of your storytime helps your child practice listening and comprehension in a relaxed setting.

2. Watch Spanish Shows and Cartoons

Kids love watching shows, so why not make it a Spanish learning moment? Pick fun, age-appropriate shows in Spanish, like animated series or nature documentaries for children. This exposure helps maintain Spanish fluency by reinforcing vocabulary, phrases, and natural pronunciation. Even just 15 minutes a day can make a big difference.

3. Sing and Dance to Spanish Songs

Music is a powerful way to help kids maintain Spanish fluency because songs make vocabulary and grammar easier to remember. Choose simple Spanish songs with catchy tunes, and encourage your child to sing along. If they love dancing, turn it into a movement activity for added fun.

4. Play Spanish Games Together

Games are an engaging way to use Spanish in a playful context. You can play simple games like “I Spy” using Spanish colors and objects, or practice counting games in Spanish. There are also many online games designed for kids learning Spanish. Incorporating Spanish into games helps maintain fluency by using language actively, not just passively.

5. Talk About Daily Life in Spanish

Even if you don’t speak Spanish fluently, you can use simple Spanish phrases throughout the day. Try asking, “¿Dónde está el libro?” (Where is the book?) or “¿Quieres leche o agua?” (Do you want milk or water?). These small interactions help your child keep using Spanish in real-life contexts, which is essential to maintaining Spanish fluency.

6. Set a Daily Spanish Challenge

Creating a small daily goal keeps your child motivated. You can challenge them to learn one new Spanish word or phrase every day and use it in a sentence. If your child likes competition, track how many words they learn each week and celebrate milestones. This keeps Spanish practice regular and fun, which helps maintain fluency over time.

7. Enroll in 1-on-1 Conversational Lessons

If you want to ensure steady progress and personalized attention, 1-on-1 Spanish lessons are one of the best ways to maintain Spanish fluency. Unlike group classes or apps, personalized lessons focus on conversation, listening, and speaking — the core skills needed to keep language fresh. Plus, teachers can tailor lessons to your child’s interests, making it even more fun and effective.

If you want to see how personalized lessons can help your child maintain Spanish fluency, click here to book a free trial class!

Keep Spanish Fun and Natural at Home

Maintaining Spanish fluency doesn’t have to feel like extra work — and it definitely shouldn’t feel like a chore for your child. By weaving Spanish naturally into your family’s daily life, you help your child stay connected to the language in ways that are fun, meaningful, and low-pressure.

Whether it’s through songs, stories, or conversations around the dinner table, every bit of practice helps your child build real confidence and keep their skills sharp. And when you combine these fun activities with 1-on-1 conversational lessons, you give your child a strong foundation to keep growing in Spanish fluency.

If you’re ready to support your child’s journey and maintain Spanish fluency with professional guidance, click here to book a free trial class today!

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? 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 7 Creative Ways to Maintain Spanish Fluency at Home — Perfect for Elementary Kids appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

Good news! You don’t have to figure it all out alone. With the right tools, learning Spanish can be fun, interactive, and easy to incorporate into daily life.

So, what are the best resources to help your child learn Spanish effectively? Below, we’ve rounded up 10 must-have tools to make Spanish learning easier and more engaging.

And don’t forget to grab your free Spanish Learning Toolkit at the end of this article!

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

1. Duolingo (App – Free & Paid Version)

We all know Duolingo!

Duolingo turns Spanish learning into a game-like experience with interactive lessons, points, and challenges. It’s great for beginners and keeps kids motivated through rewards and daily streaks.

Best for: Kids ages 6+ who enjoy self-paced learning.

2. Gus on the Go (App – Paid)

This adorable language-learning app uses stories, songs, and games to teach Spanish vocabulary. Kids follow Gus the Fox on fun adventures while picking up essential words.

Best for: Younger children (ages 3-8) who are just starting Spanish.

3. Canticos (YouTube Channel & App – Free & Paid)

If your child loves music, Canticos is a must! This award-winning series introduces Spanish through nursery rhymes and songs, perfect for little learners.

Best for: Toddlers and preschoolers learning Spanish through music.

4. Storybooks in Spanish (Books – Paid & Library Options)

Reading in Spanish builds vocabulary and improves fluency. Some excellent bilingual books include:

• “La Oruga Muy Hambrienta” (The Very Hungry Caterpillar) by Eric Carle
• “Abuela” by Arthur Dorros
• “Esperanza Renace” (Esperanza Rising) by Pam Muñoz Ryan

Best for: Kids of all ages—read together or encourage independent reading.

5. Rockalingua (Website – Paid)

This resource combines music, games, and printable worksheets to teach Spanish in an engaging way. Kids love the catchy songs, and parents love the structured lessons.

Best for: Elementary-age children who learn best through interactive activities.

6. BBC Bitesize Spanish (Website – Free)

BBC Bitesize offers free Spanish lessons, videos, and quizzes for kids. It’s a great way to reinforce what they’re learning in school or at home.

Best for: Parents looking for free, structured lessons for middle schoolers.

7. Spanish-English Flashcards (Printable – Free in Our Toolkit!)

Flashcards are one of the best tools for reinforcing vocabulary, especially for beginners. Use them for quick practice sessions or fun memory games.

Best for: Kids of all ages—print, cut, and start learning!

8. LingoPie (Streaming Service – Paid)

Imagine Netflix, but for language learning!

LingoPie offers Spanish shows with interactive subtitles so kids can learn new words in context. Studies show that watching shows in a second language significantly improves comprehension and retention.

Best for: Middle schoolers and teens who enjoy watching TV.

9. Conversational Spanish Tutor (Live Lessons – Paid)

Apps and games are great, but nothing replaces real conversations! Hiring a native Spanish-speaking tutor for 1-on-1 lessons helps kids practice speaking and build confidence.

Best for: Kids ready for real conversations and fluency practice.

10. Spanish Learning Planner (Printable – Free in Our Toolkit!)

Consistency is key! Use a planner to track daily practice, set goals, and celebrate milestones. A structured plan keeps kids engaged and motivated.

Best for: Parents who want an easy way to track progress.

Get Your Free Spanish Learning Toolkit!

Want ready-to-use resources to help your child learn Spanish faster? We’ve put together a free Spanish Learning Toolkit with everything you need to get started!

Download your FREE toolkit now!

• A curated list of books, apps, and websites
• Printable Spanish-English flashcards for vocabulary practice
• A Spanish learning planner to keep kids on track

Click here to grab your free toolkit!

Final Thoughts: Learning Spanish Should Be Fun & Easy!

With these 10 must-have resources, raising a bilingual child doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The key is to mix interactive, engaging tools that match your child’s learning style.

Which resource are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments!

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? 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 Raising a Bilingual Child: 10 Must-Have Resources Every Parent Needs appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

However, many parents worry about engagement, retention, and fluency when learning in a virtual setting. Will their child stay focused during lessons? Will they retain what they learn? Will online classes be effective enough for them to achieve fluency? With the right strategies, your child can thrive in their online Spanish lessons, stay motivated, and even earn high school credit ahead of schedule.

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

Establish Clear Learning Goals

A strong foundation for language learning begins with clear goals. Understanding why your child wants to learn Spanish will help them stay motivated and committed.

Some students may be learning Spanish to earn high school credit early, while others might be interested in using the language for travel, cultural appreciation, or career aspirations. Others may simply want to understand Spanish-language movies, music, or books.

Encouraging your child to define their own goal will provide them with a sense of purpose in their learning journey. Writing down this goal and revisiting it regularly can serve as a reminder of why they started.

If their goal involves a family trip, you can integrate Spanish preparation into your travel plans by practicing relevant vocabulary and common phrases together. Keeping a Spanish learning journal can also help track progress, introduce new vocabulary, and build confidence over time.

Create an Effective Learning Environment

Unlike a traditional classroom setting, online learning requires extra effort to maintain focus and minimize distractions. A structured, quiet learning space can make a significant difference in your child’s ability to stay engaged during lessons.

Designating a dedicated area for Spanish classes, free from television, loud noises, or sibling interruptions, ensures that they can fully concentrate on their lesson.

A comfortable chair, good lighting, and fresh air can further enhance their learning experience. Ensuring that their internet connection is strong and stable will prevent frustrating interruptions, allowing for a seamless class experience.

Having a structured space also helps the brain associate that area with Spanish learning, making it easier to transition into “learning mode” before each lesson.

Encouraging your child to use headphones with a microphone can further improve focus by blocking out background noise and enhancing sound quality. Additionally, making sure they have all the necessary materials, such as notebooks, pens, and textbooks, readily available will help them stay prepared and engaged.

Encourage Active Participation During Lessons

One of the greatest advantages of one-on-one online Spanish classes is the direct interaction students receive with their teacher. Unlike large classrooms where students may be hesitant to speak up, private lessons offer a safe space for asking questions, making mistakes, and practicing pronunciation without fear.

Encouraging your child to engage actively during lessons will accelerate their learning. They should feel comfortable asking questions, repeating new words and sentences aloud, and fully participating in conversations.

Taking notes on new vocabulary and grammar rules can reinforce learning and provide useful reference points for review. Sharing their personal interests with their Spanish teacher can also make lessons more engaging, as they can learn vocabulary related to their hobbies, favorite books, or sports.

A simple yet effective way to reinforce learning is to have your child teach you something new after each class. Teaching a concept helps solidify understanding and builds confidence, while also making language learning a family activity.

Incorporate Spanish into Daily Life

True fluency is built outside the classroom through consistent exposure and practice. Even if your child only has lessons once or twice a week, incorporating Spanish into daily routines will dramatically enhance retention and fluency.

There are many engaging ways to integrate Spanish into everyday life. Watching Spanish-language TV shows or movies with subtitles can reinforce listening skills and introduce new vocabulary in context. Listening to Spanish music or podcasts can provide exposure to different accents and conversational tones. Reading simple Spanish books, comic strips, or bilingual storybooks is another effective way to strengthen comprehension.

Playing Spanish learning games or using language apps offers a fun way to reinforce lessons outside of class. Labeling household items with Spanish words can serve as a constant visual reminder of vocabulary. Simple activities such as greeting family members in Spanish, practicing common phrases at the dinner table, or speaking with native Spanish speakers can make a noticeable difference in fluency development.

Setting a family challenge, such as learning five new Spanish words each day and using them in conversation, can be a fun way to keep everyone engaged and motivated.

Maintain Consistency and Celebrate Progress

Consistency is one of the most important factors in language learning. Sticking to a regular schedule ensures steady progress and prevents gaps in learning. Attending all scheduled lessons is crucial, as missing classes can disrupt momentum.

Daily review of notes and vocabulary for just ten minutes a day can significantly reinforce what was learned in class. Setting small, achievable milestones—such as holding a short conversation in Spanish or mastering a set of vocabulary words—provides motivation and a sense of accomplishment.

Recognizing and celebrating progress, no matter how small, keeps motivation high. Whether it’s acknowledging improved pronunciation, completing a lesson milestone, or successfully ordering food in Spanish at a restaurant, celebrating these achievements reinforces confidence and encourages continued learning.

Helping Your Child Excel in Spanish Starts Today

As a parent, you want to provide the best learning experience for your child and supporting them in their Spanish learning journey is a powerful way to do so. By setting clear goals, creating a structured learning environment, encouraging active participation, integrating Spanish into daily life, and maintaining consistency, you can ensure that your child thrives in their online Spanish lessons.

If you’re ready to see real progress, consider enrolling your child in a high-quality online Spanish program. At Homeschool Spanish Academy, we offer live, one-on-one online Spanish lessons that are fully accredited for high school credit.

Our professional, native Spanish-speaking teachers customize each lesson to your child’s learning style and pace, ensuring a personalized and effective learning experience.

Spots for our personalized Spanish courses are filling up quickly. Book a free trial class and give your set your child up for success today!

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 free Spanish lessons, fun content, and easy learning strategies for kids? 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 5 Proven Strategies to Help Your Middle Schooler Excel in 1-on-1 Online Spanish Classes appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

However, maintaining motivation in an online learning environment can sometimes be challenging. While many students start their Spanish lessons with excitement, some may lose interest over time, struggle with focus, or express boredom with the subject.

If your child’s enthusiasm for Spanish has begun to wane, don’t worry—there are proven strategies to reignite their interest and keep them engaged. By implementing the right approach, you can help your child stay motivated, excited, and on track toward fluency.

Below are ten expert-backed tips to ensure that your middle schooler remains actively engaged in their online Spanish lessons.

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

1. Setting Clear and Achievable Goals

Motivation thrives on purpose. When your child understands why they are learning Spanish, they are more likely to stay committed. Some students aim to earn high school credit early, while others want to speak fluently on a family vacation, understand Spanish-language media, or use Spanish for future career opportunities. Defining a goal gives their learning experience meaning and direction.

Encourage your child to write down their language learning objectives and track their progress weekly. If their goal is travel-related, tailor their lessons toward practical phrases and cultural nuances. If they are learning Spanish for academic purposes, emphasize linguistic skills and grammar. A Spanish learning journal can also be a great tool for tracking progress, writing down new vocabulary, and reinforcing learning.

2. Creating an Engaging and Interactive Experience

Language learning should be fun and immersive, not just about memorizing vocabulary lists. Engage your child by incorporating interactive activities into their Spanish learning routine. Encourage them to play online Spanish games, watch Spanish-language TV shows, and listen to Spanish music or podcasts that align with their interests.

You can also explore local cultural events, such as Hispanic art exhibits or theater performances, to deepen their appreciation of the language.

If possible, find a native Spanish speaker in your community for informal conversation practice. Practicing with a real person, whether a friend, neighbor, or tutor, builds confidence and makes learning more relevant.

Turning learning into a game, such as challenging your child to use five new Spanish words daily, keeps the process exciting and rewarding.

3. Implementing a Reward System

Incentives can be a powerful motivator for students. Setting up a reward system encourages participation and effort. Small incentives like earning points for completed lessons, extra screen time for reaching language goals, or a Spanish-themed dinner night can boost motivation.

Letting your child choose their own reward makes the process even more engaging, as they will be more eager to work toward a goal, they find personally exciting.

4. Structuring Lessons for Better Focus

Middle schoolers tend to learn best in small, focused study sessions. Rather than lengthy study blocks, short and structured lessons can enhance engagement. Ideally, one-on-one online Spanish classes should last between 30 to 45 minutes to maintain their attention span. When practicing outside of class, brief 10 to 15-minute daily review sessions are more effective than cramming large amounts of material at once.

Using a timer can help turn study time into a challenge rather than a chore. Setting time limits for specific exercises can make learning feel more like a game while preventing distractions and burnout.

5. Encouraging Speaking from the Beginning

Many students hesitate to speak Spanish out of fear of making mistakes. This hesitation can slow progress and lead to frustration. It is essential to create an encouraging environment where mistakes are seen as part of the learning process. Remind your child that making errors is a natural part of mastering a new language.

Start by incorporating simple Spanish phrases into daily life, such as greeting each other in Spanish every morning. Engage in role-playing exercises, such as ordering food in Spanish or pretending to check into a hotel. Encouraging your child to teach you a new Spanish phrase each day can also reinforce their confidence and willingness to speak.

6. Changing the Learning Routine

Repetition is essential for language learning but following the same study routine every day can become monotonous. Mixing up activities keeps learning fresh and engaging.

One day, your child can practice with flashcards, while the next, they can watch a Spanish TV show. Cooking a Spanish recipe together or creating a Spanish-language travel guide for a dream destination are creative ways to integrate learning into real-life experiences.

Introducing surprise Spanish-related activities each week adds an element of fun and anticipation. Keeping lessons varied ensures that your child remains curious and engaged with the language.

7. Involving Friends and Family

Learning a language is more enjoyable when shared with others. Encouraging your child to study Spanish with friends or siblings fosters a sense of camaraderie. Organizing study sessions, participating in online Spanish clubs, or playing Spanish-language board games as a family can strengthen their skills in a fun and interactive way.

Making language learning a friendly competition by challenging family members to learn the most Spanish words in a week can make studying feel like a game rather than a chore.

8. Celebrating Small Milestones

Recognizing achievements—no matter how small—builds confidence and motivation. Celebrate accomplishments such as completing a lesson, holding a short conversation, or understanding a scene from a Spanish movie. Keeping a progress chart helps children visualize their improvement, making them more motivated to continue learning.

9. Connecting Spanish to Real-World Applications

Spanish should not just be seen as a subject in school but as a valuable life skill!

Helping your child see the real-world benefits of learning Spanish will increase their motivation. Plan a future family trip where they can use their Spanish skills, encourage them to order food at a Hispanic restaurant, or connect them with a Spanish-speaking pen pal for authentic practice.

When children see that learning Spanish has practical uses beyond the classroom, they become more invested in mastering the language.

10.  Choosing the Right Online Spanish Program

Not all online Spanish classes offer the same level of engagement and effectiveness. If your child struggles to stay motivated, it may be time to evaluate whether their program is the right fit.

The best online Spanish programs provide live, one-on-one instruction tailored to each student’s needs. Accredited courses that count for high school credit, taught by native Spanish-speaking teachers, ensure a high-quality learning experience. Flexible scheduling also allows students to learn at their own pace without feeling overwhelmed.

Help Your Child Stay Motivated and Succeed in Spanish

By implementing these strategies, you can help your child stay engaged and excited about learning Spanish. Setting clear goals, incorporating interactive activities, using rewards, and reinforcing speaking skills are all effective ways to maintain motivation.

Encouraging consistency, celebrating milestones, and showing real-world applications of Spanish will further solidify their commitment to mastering the language.

At Homeschool Spanish Academy, we offer live, one-on-one online Spanish lessons designed specifically for middle schoolers. Our accredited courses, taught by professional native Spanish-speaking teachers, provide a personalized and engaging learning experience that keeps students motivated and progressing.

If you want your child to love learning Spanish, book a free trial class today and start their journey toward fluency!

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? 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 10 Expert Tips to Keep Your Middle Schooler Motivated in Online Language Lessons appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

At this age, children learn best through play, music, and everyday activities. By making Spanish a natural part of their routine, you can create an engaging, stress-free learning experience. The more playful the approach, the more effectively they will absorb and retain the language.

The ability to speak Spanish is an incredible gift that will benefit your child for life. In this guide, we’ll share five interactive and engaging activities that will help your preschooler start learning Spanish at home—no prior experience required!

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

Why Start Teaching Spanish in Preschool?

Preschool is the ideal time to introduce Spanish because young children’s brains are wired for language acquisition. Their ability to pick up new sounds, words, and sentence structures is at its peak, making this the perfect stage for effortless learning.

Also, preschoolers are not afraid to make mistakes, which allows them to learn Spanish without hesitation or embarrassment.

By incorporating Spanish into everyday routines, your child will absorb the language just as they learned their first words in English. Here are five simple and effective activities you can start using today to introduce Spanish in a fun and natural way.

1. Sing Spanish Songs Together

Why It Works

Music is one of the most powerful tools for language learning. Songs help children remember words and phrases through repetition and rhythm, making pronunciation more intuitive.

How to Do It

Play Spanish nursery rhymes and encourage your child to sing along. Choose interactive movement songs, such as Cabeza, Hombros, Rodillas y Pies (Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes), to reinforce vocabulary with physical actions. You can also create your own fun songs using simple Spanish phrases that describe daily activities.

Recommended Songs:

• Los Pollitos Dicen (The Little Chicks Say)
• Cinco Monitos Saltando en la Cama (Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed)
• Yo Tenía 10 Perritos (I Had 10 Puppies)
• A Mi Burro (To My Donkey)
• Vamos Todos a Dormir (Let’s Go to Sleep)

Pro Tip: Play Spanish songs on YouTube or Spotify during car rides, playtime, or bedtime to create daily exposure to the language.

2. Play “I Spy” in Spanish

Why It Works

This classic game builds vocabulary and helps children associate Spanish words with real-world objects.

How to Play

Choose an object in the room and describe it in Spanish. For example, say, Veo, veo… algo rojo (I spy something red). Encourage your child to guess the object, reinforcing both color recognition and vocabulary.

Once they master colors, expand the game by incorporating different categories such as fruits, household objects, or animals.

Vocabulary Examples:

• Colors: rojo (red), azul (blue), verde (green), amarillo (yellow)
• Common objects: pelota (ball), libro (book), silla (chair), zapato (shoe)
• Fruits: manzana (apple), plátano (banana), pera (pear), fresa (strawberry)
• Rooms in the house: sala (living room), cocina (kitchen), recámara (bedroom)
• Toys: carritos (toy cars), rompecabezas (puzzles), muñecas (dolls)

Make It More Fun: Use a small magnifying glass or pretend binoculars to turn your child into a language detective!

3. Label Everyday Objects Around the House

Why It Works

Seeing Spanish words daily reinforces vocabulary and helps children recognize and remember common terms effortlessly.

How to Do It

Write Spanish words on sticky notes and place them on objects around the house. Every time your child sees a note, say the word together in Spanish. For example, place a note on the door that says puerta and say, Vamos a abrir la puerta (Let’s open the door).

Suggested Words to Label:

• La mesa (table)
• La silla (chair)
• La ventana (window)
• El baño (bathroom)
• La cocina (kitchen)
• El microondas (microwave)
• El horno (oven)

Pro Tip: Change the labels each week to introduce new words and reinforce learning over time.

4. Read Bilingual Books at Bedtime

Why It Works

Storytime is already part of your child’s routine, making it an easy way to introduce Spanish naturally. Reading bilingual books strengthens comprehension and reinforces vocabulary.

How to Do It

Choose books with both English and Spanish text. Read the English version first, then highlight Spanish words as you go. Encourage your child to repeat new words after you to build confidence.

Recommended Books:

• Buenas Noches, Luna (Goodnight Moon)
• Oso Pardo, Oso Pardo, ¿Qué Ves Ahí? (Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?)
• De la Cabeza a los Pies (From Head to Toe)

Bonus Tip: Act out parts of the story to make it more interactive. The next morning, talk about the story using the Spanish words learned the night before to reinforce retention.

5. Cook a Simple Spanish Snack Together

Why It Works

Cooking engages all the senses, making it a hands-on and immersive way to introduce Spanish vocabulary. It also encourages quality bonding time between parent and child.

How to Do It

Prepare a simple snack like banana slices with honey (plátano con miel). As you cook, say the ingredients and actions in Spanish, and encourage your child to repeat them. Let them help with basic tasks like stirring or counting ingredients.

Spanish Words to Use:

• Plátano (banana)
• Miel (honey)
• Cuchara (spoon)
• Mezclar (to mix)
• Probar (to taste)
• ¿Te gustó? (Did you like it?)
• ¿Quieres más? (Would you like more?)

Make It Even More Fun: Pretend you are hosting a Spanish-language cooking show, and let your child be the chef!

Start Teaching Spanish the Fun and Easy Way!

Helping your preschooler learn Spanish doesn’t have to be complicated. By incorporating these simple activities into daily life, you can make language learning natural, enjoyable, and stress-free.

Want to take your child’s Spanish learning to the next level?

Click below to explore Homeschool Spanish Academy’s personalized, play-based Spanish lessons for preschoolers!

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 free Spanish lessons, fun content, and easy learning strategies? 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 5 Fun & Easy Spanish Activities to Do at Home with Your Preschooler appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

Instead of feeling guilty about TV time, you can turn it into an educational experience that strengthens language skills. The best part? Your child won’t even realize they’re learning. They’ll just be having fun!

Stick around until the end for a free PDF guide: “The Ultimate Spanish Media Guide for Kids.” This guide features a categorized list of books, cartoons, and movies by age level to make language learning easy and exciting.

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

Why Media Helps Kids Learn Spanish Faster?

Kids naturally absorb language through exposure, just like they learn English by hearing it every day

Research from the Linguistic Society of America shows that children acquire language best when they hear it in contextual, engaging situations. This is why immersive experiences like watching Spanish shows, reading books, and listening to stories are so effective.

A study by the University of Washington found that toddlers exposed to a second language through interactive media (like TV shows and books) showed greater vocabulary growth than those who only heard Spanish in isolated lessons.

Now, let’s dive into the best Spanish media picks for kids!

Best Spanish TV Shows for Kids

TV shows with engaging characters and simple dialogue are perfect for Spanish learners.

Here are some top picks:

1.    Pocoyó (Ages 2-5) — Available on YouTube and Netflix

This adorable animated show features short episodes with simple narration and slow-paced Spanish, making it perfect for beginners.

2. Peppa Pig en Español (Ages 3-6) — Available on YouTube and Amazon Prime

The familiar storylines and repetitive vocabulary help kids grasp Spanish phrases quickly. Try switching between English and Spanish episodes for comparison!

3. Cuentitos Mágicos (Ages 4-8) — Available on Netflix

A fantastic collection of short fairy tales in Spanish that introduce kids to storytelling in a fun and engaging way.

4. Dora la Exploradora (Ages 3-7) — Available on Nick Jr. and Amazon Prime

Dora actively encourages audience participation, making kids repeat Spanish words and phrases. It’s an interactive way to reinforce vocabulary.

Best Spanish Movies for Kids

Movies offer longer exposure to Spanish and provide cultural immersion. Here are some great choices:

1. Encanto (Ages 5+) — Available on Disney+

With its Colombian setting, catchy songs, and clear Spanish dialogue, Encanto is a great introduction to the language.

2. Coco (Ages 6+) — Available on Disney+

This heartwarming Pixar film introduces Mexican culture and music while exposing kids to authentic Spanish phrases.

3. Ferdinand (Ages 4+) — Available on Hulu and Amazon Prime

This story about a gentle Spanish bull is filled with fun dialogue and adventure, keeping kids engaged while they learn Spanish words.

4. El Libro de la Vida (The Book of Life) (Ages 7+) — Available on HBO Max and Amazon Prime

This is a visually stunning film about the Day of the Dead that introduces Spanish phrases and cultural themes.

Best Spanish Books for Kids

Books provide another essential layer of exposure by reinforcing vocabulary and grammar. Here are some must-reads:

1. La Oruga Muy Hambrienta (The Very Hungry Caterpillar) – Eric Carle — Available on Amazon

A perfect bilingual board book for young learners with simple, repetitive text.

2. Oso Pardo, Oso Pardo, ¿Qué Ves Ahí? (Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?) – Bill Martin Jr. — Available on Barnes & Noble

A great introduction to colors and animals in Spanish, using rhythmic text.

3. Un Día de Nieve (The Snowy Day) – Ezra Jack Keats — Available on Bookshop

A wonderful Spanish translation of a classic children’s book, great for early readers.

4. Elmer en Español – David McKee — Available on Target

A fun, colorful story about a patchwork elephant, helping kids learn adjectives and storytelling in Spanish.

How to Make the Most of Spanish Media

Here are three simple strategies to maximize language learning while watching and reading:

• Use Spanish subtitles: Even if your child watches in English, seeing Spanish words helps with recognition and comprehension.
• Pause and repeat phrases: Ask your child to repeat a fun phrase from a show or movie to reinforce memory.
• Combine books, shows, and music: Reinforce vocabulary by reading a Spanish book about a topic they just saw in a TV show!

Get Your Free PDF: “The Ultimate Spanish Media Guide for Kids”

Want an easy-to-follow list of the best Spanish shows, movies, and books sorted by age? Download our free PDF: “The Ultimate Spanish Media Guide for Kids,” featuring:

• Age-appropriate Spanish cartoons, books, and movies
• Where to stream or buy them
• Bonus Spanish learning tips!

Click here to grab your free guide now! (COMING SOON)

Final Thoughts: Learning Spanish Can Be Fun!

Spanish learning doesn’t have to feel like homework.

By using entertaining media like TV shows, movies, and books, your child will absorb Spanish naturally while enjoying themselves. So next time they ask for screen time, you can feel great about saying ¡Sí! (Yes!) because they’ll be learning, too!

So why wait? Start building your child’s college-ready Spanish skills today!

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? 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 The Best Spanish TV Shows, Movies, and Books for Kids to Learn Faster appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

Luckily, once you know what to watch out for, these mistakes are easy to fix!

Stick around until the end for a free PDF guide: “Common Spanish Mistakes & How to Fix Them,” which includes practical tips to make Spanish learning smoother for your child!

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

1. Translating Word for Word

One of the biggest mistakes new learners make is translating English directly into Spanish. It’s crucial to know that Spanish grammar and sentence structure are different. For example, in English, we say, “I am 10 years old,” but in Spanish, it’s “Tengo 10 años” (literally, “I have 10 years”).

Fix It: Encourage your child to learn phrases in Spanish rather than just individual words. Using resources like Spanish Playground can help them grasp natural expressions.

2. Ignoring Accent Marks

Spanish accent marks aren’t just decorative; they change the meaning of words! For example, papa (potato) vs. papá (dad), or tú (you) vs. tu (your).

Fix It: Practice reading and writing words with accents. Online tools like FluentU have interactive lessons to reinforce accent rules.

3. Mispronouncing Common Sounds

Spanish has sounds that don’t exist in English, like the rolled “r” in perro (dog) versus pero (but). Moreover, many learners also mispronounce the “ll” and “j” sounds.

Fix It: Listening practice is key! Watching Spanish cartoons like Pocoyó or using Forvo for native pronunciation can help.

4. Sticking Only to Classroom Spanish

Textbook Spanish is great, but real-world Spanish is different! Kids who only learn Spanish in the classroom may struggle to understand spoken conversations.

Fix It: Introduce everyday Spanish through songs, TV shows, and games. Try Duolingo ABC for a fun, interactive approach.

5. Confusing “Ser” and “Estar”

Both ser and estar mean “to be,” but they’re used differently. Ser is for permanent traits (Ella es inteligente – She is smart), while estar is for temporary states (Ella está cansada – She is tired).

Fix It: Teach kids simple mnemonic tricks like DOCTOR (Description, Occupation, Characteristic, Time, Origin, Relationship) for ser, and PLACE (Position, Location, Action, Condition, Emotion) for estar.

6. Avoid Speaking Out of Fear

Many kids hesitate to speak Spanish because they fear making mistakes. But mistakes are part of learning!

Fix It: Encourage a mistake-friendly environment. Try practicing with Spanish-speaking tutors from Homeschool Spanish Academy, who offer supportive 1-on-1 lessons.

7. Forgetting Gendered Nouns

In Spanish, all nouns have a gender: el (masculine) or la (feminine). Mixing them (e.g., la problema instead of el problema) is a common mistake.

Fix It: Teach kids to memorize words with their article (e.g., la mesa instead of just mesa). Flashcards from Quizlet can help reinforce this.

8. Overusing English Sentence Structures

Spanish has a different word order than English. For example, instead of “The red car,” Spanish says “El auto rojo” (literally, “The car red”).

Fix It: Encourage full-sentence practice rather than just memorizing vocabulary.

9. Skipping Listening Practice

Many learners focus on reading and writing but struggle to understand spoken Spanish.

Fix It: Have your kids listen to audiobooks, watch Spanish cartoons, and engage in conversation. Check out LingQ for immersive listening exercises.

10. Not Sticking to a Routine

Consistency is key! Learning Spanish once a week isn’t as effective as small, daily practice.

Fix It: Set up a Spanish learning routine with small daily activities. A planner like our free PDF guide can help!

Get Your Free PDF: “Common Spanish Mistakes & How to Fix Them”

Want a handy guide to reinforce these tips? Download our free PDF: “Common Spanish Mistakes & How to Fix Them,” and help your child avoid the most common pitfalls in Spanish learning!

• Simple pronunciation and grammar corrections
• Fun exercises to reinforce learning
• Printable cheat sheet for quick reference

Click here to grab your free guide now! (COMING SOON)

Final Thoughts: Mistakes Are Just Stepping Stones!

Learning Spanish should be fun and rewarding. By avoiding these common mistakes, your child will build confidence, speak more naturally, and enjoy the language-learning journey.

Remember, mistakes aren’t failures; they’re proof of progress!

So why wait? Start building your child’s college-ready Spanish skills today!

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 free Spanish lessons, fun content, and 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 The 10 Most Common Spanish Learning Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them) appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.