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!

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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.

Spanish, in particular, is a frequent choice when deciding on a second language for your child due to its widespread use around the world. 

8% of the world’s population speaks Spanish, and it’s the fourth most spoken language after English, Hindi, and Mandarin. 

Therefore knowing Spanish obviously increases your child’s career opportunities. 

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

Benefits of Learning Spanish

Enrolling your child in Spanish classes can boost their cognitive, social, and emotional development and hence improve your child’s behavior.

And these are only a few of the advantages!

How your child behaves depends not only on their genes or other biological reasons but also on communication issues or emotional reasons. 

Learning Spanish can improve cognitive functions, memory retention, critical thinking, and creativity. 

It can also enhance cultural awareness and communication skills and boost your child’s emotional intelligence.

In this article, we will explain the benefits of learning Spanish for your child’s general conduct. Keep reading to know why and how!

10 Ways Learning Spanish Can Improve Your Child’s Behavior

Now that you know why learning a second language is important, let’s look at how learning Spanish can improve your child’s behavior. 

1. Improve Cognitive Functions

Cognitive functioning refers to various mental skills, such as learning, thinking, reasoning, decision-making, and attention, among others. 

Learning Spanish can benefit children’s cognitive development in multiple ways!

Research shows that bilingual children demonstrate more cognitive flexibility than monolingual kids. So, providing your child with opportunities to learn Spanish will enhance their cognitive abilities.

2. Increase Cultural Awareness 

Learning Spanish can also increase cultural awareness in children.

It exposes them to Spanish-speaking cultures, traditions, and customs, expanding their overview. 

Spanish classes can easily introduce children to Hispanic heritage. Kids can learn Spanish songs, play Hispanic games, and read books in Spanish. 

It will slowly prepare them to appreciate diverse perspectives and to be open-minded global citizens who respect cultural diversity and inclusivity.

3. Increase Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is the ability to manage your own other people’s emotions.

It’s not a secret that emotional intelligence matters as much as IQ and can help you build stronger relationships and achieve your goals. 

Empathy and self-awareness are some of the key elements of it. 

You surely have guessed by now that learning Spanish enhances emotional intelligence and empathy.

It allows your child to deepen their cultural understanding and expand their analysis abilities, as I mentioned above. 

Learning Spanish language and culture engages kids with the practices and values of different countries.

Bilingual kids learn how to interpret the emotions of others more accurately and also learn new ways to express themselves.

They know how to put themselves in the shoes of another person.

They’re better at reading mouth movements, facial expressions, and subtle gestures as they grow up in more complex learning environments. 

4. Increase Creativity and Problem-solving Skills

Learning Spanish can also increase creativity and problem-solving skills in your child by providing them with new perspectives and ways of thinking. 

Knowing Spanish will let your kid access new information, resources, and networks and inspire novel, creative solutions to problems. 

Studies show that bilingual children are much better at solving problems than their monolingual counterparts since speaking two or more languages requires executive functioning and higher-level cognitive skills.

This is because learning a new language requires children to engage with complex grammatical structures, vocabulary, and cultural nuances.

5. Enhance Communication Skills

It is one of the most obvious benefits of learning Spanish for your child. 

It enhances their communication skills by improving their ability to express themselves differently and connect with people from different cultures. 

Your child will develop listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, essential for effective language communication. 

Moreover, bilingual kids are better at switching between tasks which can help them to communicate effectively in different contexts. 

6. Improve Memory Retention and Recall

Learning Spanish is practically a mental workout that exercises your child’s brain. 

Your child will need to learn vocabulary, grammar, and new sentence structures, memorize, and use them in their daily conversations. 

This repetitive and ongoing process of memorization and recall strengthens neural pathways in the brain responsible for memory and recall. 

A more exercised memory has undeniable long-term benefits for your kid’s future academic and professional career!

7. Increase Self-confidence and Self-esteem

Learning Spanish will increase your child’s self-confidence and self-esteem by giving them a sense of accomplishment, pride, and competence. 

Bilingual kids communicate more effectively and generally feel more confident navigating unfamiliar situations. 

Children who feel successful at it will naturally improve their self-esteem and confidence.

When your kids grow up and choose electives in school, knowing Spanish will provide them with a competitive advantage and open up opportunities in the future. 

8. Greater Adaptability and Flexibility

The brain of a bilingual child constantly exercises the ability to switch between languages and adapt to different contexts.

Increased emotional intelligence also improves their adaptability and flexibility.

In the future, your child will be more flexible and capable of adapting to a different culture, increasing their working opportunities.

It’s a necessary skill and mindset to thrive in our ever-changing world!

9. Improve Social Skills

Yes! You shouldn’t be surprised that learning Spanish improves your child’s social skills.

This process allows them to interact with different people and develop cross-cultural communication skills. 

Knowing Spanish will help your child connect with Spanish-speaking kids in other countries and make new friendships and connections.

This will broaden their social network and make their life richer and more diverse.

10. Increase Academic Success

Last but not least, learning Spanish at an early age leads to increased academic success later on. 

Your child will be able to excel not only in Spanish, although possible language electives and AP classes are definitely among the top benefits of learning Spanish.

Enhanced cognitive abilities, better memory, attention, and problem-solving skills translate into better school performance across subjects.

This is a direct way to academic success and, of course, a more attractive professional career. 

Improve Your Child’s Behavior and Performance with Spanish Classes

Now that you know that learning Spanish has a positive impact on your child’s behavior, you should start thinking about enrolling your child in Spanish classes. 

You can give it a try, sign up for a free trial class at HSA, and invest in your child’s education and behavior. 

We know how to make our students happy, and parents have even voted us the “Best Overall Online Spanish Classes for Kids.” 

Our student-tailored Spanish programs make it simple for your child to enjoy and thrive in their language-learning journey.

We can’t wait for you to join us!

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 lessons, fun content, and easy learning strategies for kids? Check these out!

• Can Middle Schoolers Really Learn Spanish Without Flashcards?
• Your Child Knows Spanish Words, Now What? How to Turn Vocabulary into Real Conversations
• From Snacks to Dinners: Spanish Vocabulary for Food That Teens Actually Talk About
• 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

The post 10 Ways Learning Spanish Can Improve Your Child’s Behavior appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

There’s no better way of learning a new language as a kid than learning with the help of games. Fun games help language learners progress quicker and make lessons more memorable.

Reading in Spanish is a skill that requires focus and patience. But it also helps us fast track towards proficiency and fluency. 

As an adult, you have the emotional maturity to assume your responsibilities, unlike some kids. 

That’s why we have to get creative when teaching children.

Remember, they have more neuroplasticity than grown-ups, and they benefit from that as they absorb new knowledge easier. However, they must come up with exciting and inviting lessons. 

So, introduce these 7 reading games in Spanish to your kids. We guarantee they’ll have a blast!

1. El juego de las palabras escondidas – Word Search Game

You may already know some of these literacy games for kids, and your children are probably familiar with the word search game. So, let’s start here!

By playing these games, kids can learn to spot Spanish words by looking at them. 

Recognition is a good starting point for learning a language. This game is called Sopa de letras in Spanish or “Letter Soup.” The goal is to recognize different words that are placed vertically, horizontally, diagonally, forwards, or backward, and they’re hidden between a bunch of other letters, hence the name. 

You can make your own word search game for free here. However, we recommend you take a look into the following variations, as they’re made for different age groups or language levels:

• Kindergartners: horizontal, forwards, medium-length. If the words are too long, kids can get lost looking for them, but it won’t be as easy to find them if they are too short. You can take words from vocabulary lessons they’re learning in class. 
• Elementary schoolers: vertical and horizontal, forwards, short and medium-length.
• Middle School: vertical, horizontal, short, medium, and large words.
• High school: vertical, horizontal, diagonal, long, more difficult, and backward. 

See next: How to Teach Your Child To Read in Spanish: 10 Easy Tricks

2. El juego de las palabras mixtas – Scrabble-Like Game

Some reading games are harder than others. Scrabble is probably best for those intermediate learners. The goal of this game is to form words from the letters you receive. 

Unlike the word search game, this one requires previous Spanish knowledge. So, naturally, someone with at least basic reading skills will excel at this game. 

El juego de las palabras mixtas is best for middle schoolers and up. 

Read next: 8 Fun Spanish Poems for Kids Who Love Reading

3. El crucigrama – Crossword Puzzle Game

The crucigrama, or crossword puzzle, is a perfect game for high school students. It is, in fact, the most challenging one on this list. 

The point of reading games in Spanish, like the crucigrama, is to guess the answer word for a question or statement with clues in it. 

In English, we know it as a crossword puzzle, and you can make your own here. 

Read also: 15 Fun Children’s Spanish Books With Free PDF Download

Of course, you can increase or decrease the difficulty, but to complete a crossword, you must always stay focused and have some vocabulary. 

Consider this, some native Spanish speakers find it hard to solve crossword puzzles. 

So, if you are looking for ways to increase mental agility, this game is perfect. 

4. El juego de la lectura en voz alta – Reading-Aloud Game

Reading in Spanish provides many advantages to the learner: they understand the language, can contextualize what is on the page, and may even become familiar with a new culture! 

Check-out: How To Help Your Children Understand What They Read

Try playing this game to gain proper rhythm and assign punctuation where needed. 

It’s pretty easy to find age-appropriate books online. Just look for children’s books or YA books.  

5. El juego de la lectura de labios – Lip-Reading Game

The juego de la lectura de labios or “lip reading game” falls under the games for high school students category. 

These exercises involve much more than the rest. 

Lip reading requires lots of vocabulary, memory, and language skills, but also some skill in reading people’s lips. 

At first, it may seem silly, but by playing this game in Spanish, you can become more aware of how Spanish speakers gesture their words, which can help with your pronunciation.  

See also: 8 Free Bilingual Spanish-English Books Online

6. El juego de la lectura de noticias – News-Reading Game

Learning a language by reading the newspaper sounds more like a task than a game. 

But you can still make it fun if you find a kids’ or planet section, for example. 

Reading games in Spanish can be very useful not only because they help you get used to its grammar but it can help you increase your vocabulary.

Sites such as Free News in Spanish share different topics. We’re sure you can find some fun readings for your kids. 

7. El juego de la lectura de cuentos – Story-Reading Game

Grown-ups read stories to children so they can get some sleep. Now it’s their turn to read! 

Here are some Free Printable Spanish Books for Kids that they can use to practice a new language as they venture into new worlds and have lots of fun. 

If you have a Kindle, here’s another resource you can use: Free Kindle Spanish Books. 

Under the summary, you can find the book’s age group. 

More Reading Games in Spanish!

Did you like these reading games in Spanish? Which one was your favorite? Would you add more to this lesson?

If you are interested in expanding your kids’ Spanish knowledge, consider a consistent program with human interaction and a proven record of delivering proficiency.

At Homeschool Spanish Academy, you can get native, authentic Spanish instruction through our first-rate, expert curriculum. 

Get Spanish classes suited to your interests and needs. 

You can try our free online Spanish class to see why thousands of students have trusted us and our method for over 10 years. 

We don’t mean to brag, but they love our 5-star Spanish program. 

Let us help you achieve your learning goals 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 lessons, fun content, and easy learning strategies for kids? Check these out!

• Can Middle Schoolers Really Learn Spanish Without Flashcards?
• Your Child Knows Spanish Words, Now What? How to Turn Vocabulary into Real Conversations
• From Snacks to Dinners: Spanish Vocabulary for Food That Teens Actually Talk About
• 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
• 12 Beginner Spanish Books for Middle School and High School
• 5 Fun and Engaging Ways to Introduce Spanish to Your Preschooler

The post 7 Spanish Reading Games for Kids: Boosting Literacy Skills appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

When you carefully choose books for your preschooler, you are doing more than teaching vocabulary. You are opening the door to cultural pride, curiosity, and deeper human connections. Spanish books offer a rich, engaging way to start your child on the path toward bilingualism and global understanding.

Why Spanish Books Are More Than Language Lessons

Books bring the beauty of language and culture to life in ways that flashcards and worksheets cannot. Through colorful illustrations, relatable characters, and meaningful stories, children experience Spanish in context.

Young children learn best through immersion and emotional connection. Spanish books provide stories about family, traditions, food, and daily life in Spanish-speaking cultures. This exposure helps preschoolers develop not only language skills but also respect and appreciation for cultural diversity.

Reading Spanish books regularly creates a nurturing space where language learning feels natural, not forced. Stories spark conversations, questions, and exploration, making the language real and personal for young learners.

When language learning starts with books that focus on both communication and cultural richness, children build a stronger, more lasting foundation.

How Spanish Books Build Language and Cultural Connection

Choosing the right Spanish books introduces your child to authentic traditions and values. Many popular children’s Spanish books highlight holidays like Día de los Muertos, everyday family life, and important cultural figures. These stories help children see Spanish not just as another subject but as a vibrant, living part of the world.

Spanish books encourage children to develop empathy and curiosity. When they read about kids who celebrate different holidays or eat different foods, they begin to understand and appreciate these differences.

Language and culture are deeply intertwined. Without cultural context, learning a language can feel shallow. Spanish books bridge this gap, turning every story into a mini cultural journey.

Through repeated exposure to Spanish books, children not only acquire vocabulary but also learn about new customs and ways of thinking. These early lessons in empathy and cultural respect will benefit them for life.

10 Spanish Books for Preschoolers That Boost Cultural Connection

“Abuela” by Arthur Dorros

A beautiful story about a grandmother and grandchild exploring New York City while weaving in Spanish words and cultural pride.

“Just a Minute: A Trickster Tale and Counting Book” by Yuyi Morales

A playful counting book that introduces children to Mexican traditions and folktales.

“Round Is a Tortilla: A Book of Shapes” by Roseanne Greenfield Thong

Combines basic concepts with Latin American culture, making learning shapes and Spanish words delightful.

“Fiesta Babies” by Carmen Tafolla

This joyful celebration of Latino culture through a baby’s eyes introduces dances, foods, and celebrations.

“La Princesa and the Pea” by Susan Middleton Elya

A bilingual twist on a classic tale with vivid cultural references from Peru.

“What Can You Do with a Paleta?” by Carmen Tafolla

Explores a cherished Mexican tradition through vibrant illustrations and simple Spanish phrases.

“Waiting for the Biblioburro” by Monica Brown

Inspired by a true story about bringing books to rural Colombia, this story highlights the power of literacy and cultural connection.

“Mango, Abuela, and Me” by Meg Medina

A touching story about bridging generations and languages within a family.

“Dreamers” by Yuyi Morales

An inspiring tale of immigration and cultural identity, written and illustrated by a Mexican author.

“Lucía the Luchadora” by Cynthia Leonor Garza

Empowers young readers with a lively story about tradition, family, and finding one’s voice.

Selecting Books for Maximum Impact

When choosing Spanish books for your preschooler, look for stories that reflect authentic Spanish-speaking cultures. Books written by native authors or featuring real cultural elements provide a more genuine experience.

It’s also important to select Spanish books that match your child’s interests. Whether it’s animals, adventures, or family stories, engaging content makes reading time something to look forward to.

Consistency matters. Adding Spanish books to your daily routine helps your child absorb the language naturally. Bedtime is a perfect opportunity to enjoy a story together in Spanish, creating a calm, positive environment for language exposure.

If you want to take your child’s Spanish learning even further, consider adding structured lessons to your routine. Homeschool Spanish Academy offers live, one-on-one classes with native Spanish-speaking teachers who specialize in working with preschoolers. Our curriculum is designed to complement the cultural exposure children get from Spanish books, reinforcing language skills through speaking and listening practice.

Building a Lifelong Love of Language and Culture

Starting with Spanish books ensures that language learning begins in a fun, stress-free way. When children enjoy their first experiences with Spanish, they are more likely to stick with it long-term.

Spanish books do more than teach words—they introduce children to the beauty and diversity of Spanish-speaking cultures. This combination of language and culture fosters open-mindedness, respect, and a genuine love for learning.

By creating an environment where Spanish books are a regular part of your child’s world, you are planting seeds for bilingualism and global citizenship.

If you are ready to take the next step in your child’s Spanish journey, we invite you to explore Homeschool Spanish Academy.

Click here to book a free trial class!

Our personalized, live, online classes pair perfectly with the cultural experiences found in Spanish books, giving your child a well-rounded start in Spanish.

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 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 Spanish Books That Teach More Than Words: Boosting Culture and Connection Early 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.

If you are already speaking, writing, and even thinking in Spanish, congratulations, you’re way ahead of the curve. But if you are aiming to impress competitive colleges and elevate your Spanish skills even further, diving into authentic literature written by a Spanish-speaking author is one of the smartest moves you can make.

Reading advanced, original texts written in Spanish not only strengthens your grammar and vocabulary, but it also gives you cultural insight, critical thinking skills, and an edge when it comes time to write application essays or prepare for interviews.

Ready to build a bookshelf that sets you apart? Let’s dig into the top 10 Spanish books that every ambitious high school student should tackle before college.

Why Reading Spanish Literature Matters

Research consistently shows that extensive reading builds both fluency and academic performance. According to a study published by the Modern Language Journal, students who regularly engage with authentic reading material in their second language show significant gains in reading comprehension, vocabulary acquisition, and even writing ability.

Plus, being able to reference a Spanish novel or discuss a character’s journey in an essay or interview signals that you are serious about your bilingualism, and serious students always catch the eye of admissions teams.

The 10 Most Impressive Spanish Books to Read Before College

1. “Cien años de soledad” by Gabriel García Márquez

A masterpiece of magical realism, this novel transports readers to the mythical town of Macondo. García Márquez’s layered storytelling teaches you to navigate complex narratives and symbolism, skills that admissions officers adore.

2. “Don Quijote de la Mancha” by Miguel de Cervantes

Often called the first modern novel, Don Quijote challenges your understanding of satire, loyalty, and idealism. Even referencing this book signals a strong command of classical Spanish literature.

3. “La casa de los espíritus” by Isabel Allende

Allende’s novel blends family saga with political commentary in post-colonial Latin America. It is beautifully written, highly accessible, and a great introduction to Chilean history and culture.

4. “Ficciones” by Jorge Luis Borges

Short stories that bend reality, logic, and time itself. Borges is a must-read for any student who loves philosophy, math, or the concept of parallel worlds.

5. “Como agua para chocolate” by Laura Esquivel

This enchanting novel set during the Mexican Revolution connects food, love, and tradition. It offers cultural richness and vivid language that will enhance both your speaking and writing skills.

6. “Bodas de sangre” by Federico García Lorca

A poetic, tragic play filled with Spanish rural traditions and raw human emotions. Perfect for students interested in theater, poetry, or drama.

7. “Los detectives salvajes” by Roberto Bolaño

This contemporary classic explores youth, poetry, and exile across Latin America. Bolaño’s style will challenge your reading skills and expose you to modern literary voices.

8. “Crónica de una muerte anunciada” by Gabriel García Márquez

Shorter than Cien años de soledad but just as powerful, this novel reads almost like a suspenseful true crime story, offering an excellent glimpse into Latin American culture and journalism.

9. “Aura” by Carlos Fuentes

A haunting short novel about obsession, memory, and time. Fuentes’s lyrical style is a great way to fine-tune your reading comprehension without committing to a lengthy text.

10. “María” by Jorge Isaacs

A romantic novel set in Colombia’s Valle del Cauca region, María is essential for understanding 19th-century Latin American society and ideals.

How to Approach Reading These Books

Reading in Spanish should not feel like another homework assignment. It should feel like an adventure. Here are a few tips to help:

• Choose books appropriate for your level. Some books, like Como agua para chocolate, are more approachable, while others like Don Quijote may take extra effort.
• Read with a purpose. Take notes on themes, character development, and cultural elements you can reference later.
• Discuss your readings. Practice talking about the books in Spanish, either with a tutor or a study group. Need personalized conversation practice? Click here to book a free trial class with Homeschool Spanish Academy and dive deeper into Spanish discussions.

Final Thoughts: Let Your Reading Set You Apart

The books you read—and how you talk about them—can set you apart as a thoughtful, culturally aware, and deeply engaged applicant. Colleges are looking for students who are not just fluent, but literate in their second language.

By tackling these Spanish masterpieces now, you are not just sharpening your language skills. You are proving that you have the curiosity, discipline, and global perspective that top colleges seek.

So grab one of these titles, curl up with a notebook, and start building the kind of intellectual depth that admissions counselors cannot resist.

Your future self—and your college essay—will thank you.

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 free 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 Impressive Spanish Books to Read Before College (And Why They Matter) appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

One of the most joyful parts of parenting a preschooler is watching them discover new things. And there’s something especially heartwarming about hearing your child say a new word in Spanish, whether it’s hola at breakfast or gracias after you hand them a snack.

If your child already knows a few Spanish words, you might be wondering, “What’s the next step?” or “How can I keep the momentum going?”

Good news: you don’t need a perfect accent or a teaching background to help your little one learn. Just a few high-frequency Spanish words can build confidence, spark curiosity, and even lay the foundation for fluency. And the best part? You’ll start seeing results this week.

At the end of this article, you’ll get access to a free printable PDF of Spanish Starter Flashcards for Preschoolers, 20 fun, illustrated words that make learning visual, interactive, and stress-free.

Why These Early Words Matter

Children between the ages of 3 and 5 are in a prime stage for language development. According to the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, early childhood is when the brain is most adaptable to learning languages. This means your preschooler can soak up vocabulary effortlessly, especially when it’s introduced in fun, bite-sized ways.

Even learning just 5 to 10 new Spanish words per week can help your child feel a growing sense of mastery. It also encourages them to start connecting Spanish with daily routines, whether at home, in class, or during paired lessons with a friend.

So, if your child is already enrolled in a Spanish class or you’re considering it, practicing these words outside of class helps reinforce what they learn and makes the experience more meaningful.

Real Learning, Real Results

Parents often ask if starting this early really makes a difference. The answer is a resounding yes. Research carried out by the University of California found that early exposure to a second language can enhance executive function skills like memory, attention, and problem-solving.

Starting with just a few Spanish words now can help your child not only build vocabulary but also sharpen cognitive abilities that serve them in all areas of development. And if you’re looking for a structured yet playful way to keep the learning going, paired Spanish classes for preschoolers are a fantastic next step. Your child gets a blend of peer interaction and personal attention that supports both language and social growth.

To learn more about how our classes work, click here to book a free trial class.

10 Simple Spanish Words to Learn This Week

Here are 10 beginner-friendly Spanish words that are perfect for preschoolers.

These words are easy to pronounce, useful in everyday life, and naturally invite repetition, which is key for memorization.

1. Hola – Hello
   Great for greetings and introducing polite habits.
2. Adiós – Goodbye
   Reinforces routines when saying goodbye to family, friends, or even toys at bedtime.
3. Gracias – Thank you
   One of the most essential words in any language, and easy for preschoolers to remember.
4. Por favor – Please
   Pairs beautifully with gracias and builds early social-emotional skills.
5. Agua – Water
   Kids ask for drinks constantly. Now, they can do it in Spanish.
6. Pan – Bread
   Common and easy to connect to meals or snack time.
7. Zapato – Shoe
   Great for routines like getting dressed—“Where’s your zapato?”
8. Perro – Dog
   If your child loves animals, they’ll love learning this one.
9. Mano – Hand
   Fun to pair with activities like hand-washing or games like “Dame la mano” (give me your hand).
10. Rojo – Red
    The perfect starter color, especially if your child enjoys art or playing with blocks.

You can introduce these words during storytime, while drawing together, or by labeling everyday objects.

Keep it light and playful. Preschoolers retain more when they associate learning with fun.

Keep the Learning Going

If you’re excited to bring Spanish into your child’s daily routine, we’ve made it even easier. Download our free printable: Spanish Starter Flashcards for Preschoolers.

This colorful set includes the 10 words listed above, plus 10 more, designed specifically for ages 3 to 5. It’s perfect for fridge games, storytime prompts, or adding a little Spanish flair to your morning routine.

To get your free copy, click here to download the PDF. (Coming Soon!)

Learning Spanish doesn’t have to start with textbooks or structured drills. It can begin with a few simple, joyful words spoken between you and your child during the day. When your preschooler says “gracias” without being prompted, you’ll know this journey is already paying off.

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 resources for your 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 10 Simple Spanish Words Your Preschooler Can Learn This Week appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

If your child is already fluent in Spanish—reading full novels, carrying conversations, and maybe even correcting your grammar—you might be wondering, Now what? They’ve come so far, but keeping them engaged and growing can feel like a challenge, especially when most programs focus on beginner or intermediate learners.

Here’s the good news: this is actually where the fun begins.

Fluency opens doors to richer, deeper learning—not just in language mechanics but also in culture, creativity, and critical thinking.

By the end of this post, you’ll have 9 fresh ideas to re-ignite your child’s interest in Spanish. And as a bonus, we’ve included a free PDF called “The Spanish Enrichment Playbook,” packed with 20+ activities you can download and start using today.

Why It Matters? Fluent Doesn’t Mean Finished

According to the Modern Language Association, fewer than 1% of American adults are proficient in a second language, even after years of classroom study. So, if you’re reading this, your child is already ahead. But staying ahead means you need to move past basic vocabulary drills and into real-world, meaningful Spanish use.

As a parent, educator, or both, you know that middle schoolers thrive on novelty and challenge. So let’s give them just that.

1. Start a Spanish-Only Journal

Have your child reflect on their day, write short stories, or even answer daily prompts, all in Spanish. This will build vocabulary, encourage creativity, and keep grammar sharp.

Bonus Tip: Choose a theme for each week (dreams, emotions, nature, sports, music, etc.) to keep it fun and focused.

2. Watch (and Analyze) Spanish Films

Skip the dubs and head straight to the original Spanish-language content. Films from Spain, Colombia, or Mexico can expose your child to diverse accents and cultures.

Try watching with subtitles off or pause to discuss scenes and vocabulary.

Great platforms for this include Netflix and Pantaya on ViX+ and YouTube.

3. Give Them a “Passion Project” in Spanish

Is your child into marine biology? Anime? Space exploration?

Let them explore those topics in Spanish. Encourage them to research, create a presentation or essay, or even conduct an interview with an expert in Spanish.

4. Start a Spanish Book Club (Even if It’s Just You Two)

Reading advanced literature helps keep comprehension sharp. Choose books with rich narratives and cultural context, like Sandra Cisneros’ La Casa en Mango Street or Horacio Quiroga’s Cuentos de la Selva.

Discuss plot, character development, and vocabulary together. Make it feel like a grown-up club.

5. Assign “Teaching Days”

Flip the roles. Let your child teach you Spanish once a week. Have them prepare a lesson or mini-quiz. This will reinforce their knowledge and build confidence.

You’ll both laugh and learn.

6. Explore Music and Lyrics

Help them create a playlist of favorite Spanish songs and analyze the lyrics. What are the themes? Is there regional slang?

Music connects language with emotion, and because of rhythm and repetition, it can help consolidate their knowledge.

7. Cook Together—With Recipes in Spanish

Choose a traditional dish from a Spanish-speaking country, find the recipe in Spanish, and follow it together.

Cooking connects language, culture, and family time in a tangible, delicious way.

8. Host a “Spanish Immersion Day” at Home

Designate one day per week or month where all communication at home happens in Spanish. Put labels on objects, put on music and movies in Spanish, and encourage them to speak only en español, too.

Also, add fun challenges like “who slips into English the most has to do the dishes!”

9. Connect with Native Speakers

Language is an important social element.

Give your child opportunities to speak with real people, whether through pen pals, online tutors, or virtual exchanges. This boosts confidence and exposes them to authentic accents and idioms.

Programs like Homeschool Spanish Academy offer 1-on-1 lessons with native speakers tailored for beginners, intermediate, and advanced learners.

Want Even More? Grab the Free “Spanish Enrichment Playbook”

If you’re excited about these ideas, you’ll love our Spanish Enrichment Playbook, a free, printable collection of over 20 activities designed specifically for advanced middle schoolers.

Inside, you’ll find:

• Creative writing prompts
• Cultural scavenger hunts
• Music and media exploration ideas
• Hands-on projects
• Weekly challenges you can actually stick to

Download it here: The Spanish Enrichment Playbook (Coming soon!)

Final Thoughts

Keeping your child engaged in Spanish once they’ve reached fluency doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It just takes a little creativity and the willingness to explore the language as a living, breathing, exciting part of your daily life.

Your child has already done the hard work of becoming fluent. Now, let’s make it unforgettable.

Also, do you want help customizing your child’s Spanish journey even further?

Check out our one-on-one programs designed for advanced learners at Homeschool Spanish Academy. We’ll meet your child exactly where they are and keep them moving forward.

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 resources for your 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 9 Ways to Keep Your Middle Schooler Engaged in Spanish (Even if They’re Already Fluent) 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!
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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.