That’s right!  

People in Spain speak mainly four languages, and they’re all available in various parts of the country: Castilian (commonly referred to as Spanish), Euskera, Galician, and Catalan. 

Crazy, huh? 

So, let’s learn about the origins of these languages, where they’re spoken, how many people speak them today, and much more. 

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The Main Languages of Spain

Before diving into these unique languages, let’s get one thing straight. These languages are, in fact, official languages and not dialects.

Simply put, languages are the official ways that people in a country or community talk to each other. Dialects, on the other hand, are smaller parts of a language that are spoken by a certain group of people or in a certain area. Accents are often a good way to tell a dialect apart. 

We can think of language as the broader umbrella term under which various dialects of a language fall. 

Here’s an example. Language: English. Dialect: British English. 

Now that we got that out, let’s dive into some points of interest about the four official languages spoken in Spain.

Castilian or Spanish

No surprise here. Spain’s primary language is Castilian Spanish. 

99% of Spaniards speak Spanish. It’s commonly used in schools, media, TV, entertainment, music, and government websites. 

If you know Spanish, you can survive and even thrive in Spain! 

Today, there are over 43.64 million Spanish speakers in Spain. 

History of Castilian Spanish:

The term “Castilian Spanish” refers to the Spanish spoken on the Iberian peninsula. It is the oldest form of the Spanish language. 

You may know that there are over 450 million native Spanish speakers worldwide, but did you know that Castilian Spanish actually began as a dialect in the northern part of Spain?

In the 13th century, King Alfonso X ruled the regions of Castile, Leon, and Galicia in Spain. 

He held most of his political power in the region of Castile and decided to make Castilian the official language of the court and state.

Also, there was another push for Castilian Spanish during The Reconquista period. 

After the Moors from Northern Africa were driven out of Spain, Castilian Spanish gained momentum through literature. For example, King Alfonso X established academic scribes in Castilian, cementing the language’s place in the region and, dare we say, the world. 

The Castilian Spanish Language

Spanish speakers can interact and understand each other worldwide. But Castilian Spanish and the Spanish spoken in Latin America are not the same in a lot of important ways. The most notable distinction is the ceceo. 

Let’s take a look. 

The letters “c” and “z” are pronounced the same as the letter “s” in Latin American Spanish. In Spain, however, they are pronounced similarly to how English speakers pronounce the “th” sound. 

This is how the Spanish “lisp,” which is not truly a lisp, came to be. 

In Spain, it’s also more common to use the informal plural “vosotros” rather than the formal “ustedes.” 

A Castilian Spanish speaker may say, “¿Qué quereis comer?” instead of “¿Qué quieren comer?”

Castilian Spanish also has quite a few colloquial expressions. You may have heard some of them, like “Vale” which means “Okay,” or “Guay” which people in Spain use to describe something “Cool.” 

Catalan

Catalonia is another popular region in Spain. But did you know the locals have had their own language for centuries? 

There are roughly 9 million Catalan speakers across regions of Spain, France, and even Italy. 

In Spain, you can find over 8 million of them in Aragon, the Balearic Islands, Catalonia, Murcia, and Valencia.

But let’s look at its history. 

History of Catalan

Catalan is a Romance language that, like Spanish, has its roots in Vulgar Latin. 

It comes from the Pyrenees Mountains, which are between France and Spain. It was first written down in the 12th century.

So, yeah, it’s even older than Castilian Spanish! 

Catalan was the official language of the Catalonia region until Spain’s Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand, and Isabella, united Aragón and Castile and made Castilian the official language.

Although Catalan has existed since the dawn of Spain, native speakers haven’t always been free to use it.

Catalan was banned in schools, books, newspapers, and magazines during the Spanish Civil War, the late 1930s, and Franco’s rule. People weren’t even allowed to use it in public, with friends or family. 

Can you believe it? Just imagine going out with your children and being punished for speaking in your mother tongue! 

But that’s not all! 

Road signs and advertisements in Catalan were all changed to Spanish, and any judicial documents in Catalan were declared invalid.

After Franco’s dictatorship ended in 1975, Catalan-speaking areas regained their right to speak Catalan and kept it alive for future generations. 

The Catalan Language

A common misconception is that Catalan is a dialect of Spanish. This could not be more wrong, as Catalan is an official language that, in some ways, is more similar to French than Spanish.

Let’s look at a couple of common phrases.

• Hello –  Bon dia 
• How are you – Com estàs 
• I’m well – Estic bé
• Thank you – Gràcies
• Goodbye – Adèu 

Euskera, A Basque Language

You might be surprised to learn that the oldest living language in Europe is still spoken in the north of Spain and that it’s even older than Castilian Spanish! 

Approximately 37% of the Basque people still speak Euskera, which rounds up to one million speakers. They live on both sides of the Pyrenees, and most Euskera speakers live on the Spanish side. 

Despite estimates that claim that 60% of Basque citizens will speak Euskera in 2036, in 2010, UNESCO gave the language official “vulnerable” status. 

History of Euskera 

Euskera is distinct from other Spanish-speaking languages in that it has no linguistic relatives. It is a language on its own, with no known Indo-European roots or ties to any other language groups. Cool, huh? 

There are, however, theories regarding the origins of the language.

Some linguists believe Euskera and Iberian (now a dead language) were once the same or evolved from the same language. Others point to cave drawings discovered in the Basque Country around 14,000 years ago as proof that the language has existed since then. 

Much like Catalan, and other minority languages in Spain, Euskera was heavily persecuted during the Spanish Civil War and the Franco dictatorship. 

Euskera speakers today have memories of attending secret church services in the Basque language. 

Others recall when family members were arrested for speaking Euskera during the war.

Even though people tried to kill off the Basque language, it kept going on as it had for thousands of years. 

The Euskera Language

If you travel north of the Basque Country, you’ll come across cities like San Sebastian and Bilbao, where you might hear a strange language that sounds nothing like anything you’ve ever heard before.

Such is Euskera. 

The Basque language has a quirky pronunciation. For example, the letters “tx” make the “ch” sound, while “tt” is similar to the “c” sound in Spanish, and “x” sounds like “sh.”

Here are some common phrases you’ll hear up north:

• Hello – Kaixo 
• Goodbye – Agur
• Thank you – Eskerrik asko
• How are you? – Zer moduz?

Galician

Finally, we bring our attention to Portuguese’s sister language: Galician. 

In the northwestern region of Spain, you can find beautiful fishing towns, lots of octopus, and nearly four million locals chatting in Galician.

If you know any Portuguese, you’ll likely have a relatively easy time understanding Galician, as there is a lot of overlap in its sounds and word structures. 

History of Galician

Galician, like Spanish, Portuguese, and Catalan, belongs to the Western Ibero-Romance language family. It originated in the Roman province of Gallaecia and was the official language of the Kingdom of Galicia until the 15th century when Castilian Spanish replaced it. 

Galician stayed in the back seat until around the 19th century, when there was a revival, and Galician speakers tried to spread the language once more. During this period, intellectuals published literature, research papers, and journalistic articles in Galician.

This resurgence lasted until the 20th century when the language was also outlawed during the Spanish Civil War and the Franco dictatorship. Yes, yet another banned language.

However, unlike many languages, Galician prevailed through its years of persecution. 

There are a lot of things going on today to help younger people appreciate Galician.

The Galician Language

Galician writers like lvaro Cunqueiro, whose gravestone reads, “Here lies someone who, with his work, made Galicia last a thousand more springs,” would be pleased to know that Galician is now taught at home and in schools.

Here are some Galician phrases people might want to know:

• Welcome – Benvido/Benvida
• How are you? – Que tal estás?
• I’m well, thank you – Moi ben, grazas
• What’s your name? – Como te chamas?
• I’m from … – Eu son de …

Learn Spanish Today 

Remember what we said earlier? If you know Spanish, you can survive and even thrive in Spain! Do you want to go to the La Tomatina Festival? Perhaps you’re a soccer fan and want to go see El Clásico. Well, in that case, you might need some Spanish lessons.

But again, there are over 450 million Spanish speakers worldwide. So, if you know Spanish, you can also travel across Latin America! 

So, please consider signing up for a free trial class at Homeschool Spanish Academy. 

Our native-speaking instructors will help you speak Spanish from your very first class, and they’re experts in providing student-tailored Spanish programs for learner-specific language goals. We’ll be waiting for you! 

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

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The post Languages in Spain: How Many Languages Are Spoken in Spain? appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

Across the country, Spaniards and curious visitors join in some of the most extraordinary celebrations that captivate even the most veteran traveler. 

Let’s dive into some of the most unique festivals in Spain, which are only available there. 

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1. La Feria de Abril – Seville

What began as a modest cattle fair in 1847 has transformed into Seville’s most revered celebration: La Feria de Abril, which translates into “April’s Fair.”  

This fair occurs a few weeks after Semana Santa in the Spring.

Locals celebrate by dancing Flamenco, eating tapas, drinking wine, and partying late into the night with friends and family.

Every year, feria-goers vie for a spot in a caseta, a private tent owned by a local family. These tents line the entire length of the fairgrounds and are the center of the celebration. 

It’s like you’re in a different era! 

In the streets and the fairgrounds, you will see women wearing traditional Flamenco dresses and dancing to soulful Spanish guitar tunes. They often travel around the Feria in one of the city’s many horse-drawn carriages and are a cornerstone representation of the Feria de Abril. 

2. Els Enfarinats – Ibi, Alicante

In Spain, December 28th is known as the Day of the Innocents, which recognizes the New Testament story of King Herod’s massacre of infant boys in an attempt to kill Jesus.

Despite its dark past, people now commemorate December 28th with light-hearted jokes and pranks. It’s their version of our April Fool’s Day. 

Nowhere is the day more uniquely-celebrated than in Ibi, in the province of Alicante, Spain. In Ibi, residents have gathered for over 200 years to throw eggs and flour at each other during Els Enfarinats, which means “The Floured Ones” in Valencian. 

“The Floured Ones” festival may be a mess, but it is full of joy and laughter. 

At 8 am, townspeople are already lining the streets waiting for men in military uniforms to arrive with their faces painted in bright colors. They stage a coup d’état, declare a mayor, and begin enforcing bizarre laws. 

When residents have had enough, La Oposicio (The Opposition) fights back by throwing eggs and flour at their new pretend leadership. 

Firecrackers go off, creating colorful clouds of smoke, and by the end of the day, the fake mayor has stepped down, and participants are well-battered and ready for a shower.

If you find yourself in Alicante on December 28th, be careful, or you might get egged! 

3. Batalla de Vino – Haro, La Rioja

This holiday, which translates to “The Battle of Wine,” takes place in the heart of the Spanish wine country of La Rioja, and it’s exactly what its name implies. 

Are there any wine aficionados out here? This is your place to be! Or not! 

On the morning of June 29, townspeople gather outside near Riscos de Bilibio to commence the La Batalla de Vino and douse themselves and their friends in bright red wine. 

By the afternoon, everyone’s white clothes have turned purple, and participants are ready to recover their energy eating snails, lamp chops, and other delicious delicacies. 

The party doesn’t stop there, however. 

Once the feast has concluded, everyone makes their way back to the town of Haro to continue the festivities with music, and people dance in the streets like there’s no tomorrow.

The celebration goes back to the 6th century when people made pilgrimages to San Felices de Bilibio’s burial site. By the 20th century, those pilgrimages turned into baptism celebrations, which gave life to the wine battle we know today. 

4. La Fiesta de los Patios – Córdoba

Known for its famous Mezquita, the Roman bridge, and the Calahorra tower, the Andalusian city of Córdoba is also home to an important UNESCO Heritage Site: La fiesta de los patios. 

Every spring, proud residents adorn the patio courtyards of their homes with colorful flowers, stone mosaics, and ceramic decorations to celebrate the Córdoba Patio Festival. 

These old-style homes are open to the public typically during May and sometimes host small artisanal markets to draw in more visitors.

Patio courtyards are a symbol of Andalusian architecture, which dates back to the days of the Romans and incorporates elements of Nothern African and Spanish styles. 

These central patios are a way to keep cool during the region’s hot summer months, and today, they serve both practical and cultural purposes. 

The Cordoba City Hall began this tradition in 1918, which continues to be one of the city’s most charming attractions.

5. El Colacho – Castrillo de Murcia, Burgos

On the first Sunday after Corpus Christi, residents in Castrillo de Murcia celebrate the triumph of good over evil in a rather unusual way. 

El Colacho, a pestering character who represents the devil, has one goal: to spoil the town’s joyful celebration. 

As he marches through the street in his bright yellow and red costume, children and parade-goers insult him until he ultimately fails in his mission. 

By the day’s end, good has officially defeated evil.

Everyone in the town has a role to play during the day of El Colacho, even the children. During the most noteworthy part of the parade, El Colacho races through the streets and jumps over mattresses holding several babies. As soon as he leaps, the town priest blesses the infants.

The odd tradition dates back to the Middle Ages and continues to grow in popularity. 

Here’s a nice peak of that iconic leap we mentioned earlier! 

6. Las Fallas – Valencia

In March, residents gather in Valencia to celebrate the region’s most significant holiday: Las Fallas. 

For three weeks, the city celebrates with parades, musical performances, fireworks, religious offerings, and partying. 

The main spectacle are the ninots: giant papier-mache floats that stand over 20 feet tall and depict celebrities, politicians, fictional characters, and other pop culture figures. 

It’s quite common to see Spiderman next to Putin and Donald Trump during Las Fallas. 

One of the important days is dedicated to the city’s patron Virgin: “Our Lady of the Forsaken.”

Attendees, known as falleros, dress in traditional Valencian clothing and dance at the Plaza de la Virgen, where they present her with flowers. 

On other days, the townspeople come to watch the mascletas, which are concerts of fireworks and gunpowder explosions. 

At the end of the Fallas celebrations, people gather to participate in the Nit del Foc (The Night of Fire), in which they set the ninots on fire on a giant bonfire. 

Learn Spanish Culture with Spanish Language Classes

Did these celebrations spark any wanderlust? Did you learn anything new?

If you’re interested in learning more about Spanish customs and traditions, head to our blog for more educational resources. 

If you’re considering learning Spanish, consider signing up for a free trial class. 

Our native-speaking teachers specialize in providing student-tailored Spanish programs and flexible scheduling to make it easy and convenient. So whether you’re a beginner adult or interested in having your child learn Spanish, there is a teacher for you. 

We can’t wait to help you learn more about the Spanish language and culture. We’ll be waiting! 

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

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

– Sharon K, Parent of 3

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

– Cindy D, Parent of 3

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

– Erica P. Parent of 1

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The post 6 Unique Festivals in Spain You Won’t Find Anywhere Else appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

Whether you’re raising a bilingual child, navigating multilingualism as a family, or trying to help your child acquire a new language, having the right strategy is the recipe for success. This article explores the language strategy options you have and how to incorporate your favorites into your daily life to benefit you and your child.

As we’ll discover, research shows that the most effective language strategies are the Minority Language at Home (MLAH) and Mixed System (MS) approaches. 

However, language learning is not one-size-fits-all all. The best language strategy is the one that fits your family’s needs, goals, and unique dynamics. 

So you might be wondering how to choose the best family language strategy. 

Let’s dive into some of the most popular language strategies so you can determine which is best for your family.

What Is a Family Language Strategy? 

A family language strategy is the approach a family takes to help their child learn a language. 

A language strategy will determine what language the child speaks at home and in public, who will speak in what language with the child, and whether there is a specific time and place for different languages. 

Having a strategy can set a structure that makes it easier for your child to reach fluency. 

4 Popular Family Language Strategies

1. One Person One Language (OPOL) 

OPOL is one of the most widely used bilingual family language strategies.

In OPOL, each parent speaks to the children in a different language. Ideally, they speak in the language they feel most confident. 

The OPOL strategy generally works for the following scenarios: 

• Each parent speaks a minority language. 
• One parent speaks a minority language, while the other speaks the majority language 

Majority language refers to the language spoken by the greater community, while minority language refers to one that is not.

Advantages and Disadvantages 

The most obvious benefit is that it introduces the child to two languages at an early age, which is ideal for language acquisition.

OPOL allows children to develop relationships with their parents in their respective languages, strengthening their emotional connection and preserving elements of each caregiver’s culture. 

Though bilingual and multilingual families have been using OPOL for years, it is not a guaranteed pathway to language acquisition. Linguist researcher Annick De Houwer conducted a study with over 2,000 families utilizing the OPOL strategy and found that a quarter of the children did not become bilingual.

One of the issues that surfaced in Annick’s research was that children didn’t spend the same amount of time with each language. 

There might also be a conflict if one parent speaks both languages while the other does not, limiting the time the family and child spend with the minority language. 

See also: Does Being Bilingual Cause Speech Delays? and 8 Brain Benefits to Learning a Second Language

2. Minority Language at Home (MLAH) 

MLAH is a language strategy in which the family speaks the minority or target language in the home while continuing to use the majority or community language outside the home. 

For a native Spanish-speaking family living in the United States, the minority language would be Spanish, and the majority language would be English. 

Who Should Use this Strategy? 

The bottom line for families who utilize the MLAH strategy is that both parents speak the minority language at home. This means that parents must be native speakers or fluent in the target language. 

Users of the MLAH strategy will generally be migrants or expats. 

Here are some examples of families who could benefit from MLAH: 

• Native Spanish-speaking parents living in the United States speak Spanish at home and English outside the home
• An American parent who speaks fluent Spanish and a parent from Mexico speaking Spanish at home 

Advantages and Disadvantages 

Families who immigrate or have multicultural backgrounds may fear their children will lose touch with their language and culture. The MLAH is one way to combat that. 

Professor and language researcher Francois Grosjean believes this method is the most effective in obtaining bilingualism. It provides the child with sufficient exposure to the minority language and a clear distinction between when and where they should use which language.

Linguist Annick De Houwer’s research found that children whose parents spoke a minority language at home had achieved bilingualism with a success rate of 96.92%. 

The most obvious disadvantage to this strategy is that, unless both parents are native speakers, they must at least have high proficiency in the language. 

Time is another significant factor. If the parents cannot spend much time at home with the child, the child’s exposure to the language is limited. Furthermore, a child who speaks a minority language at home and has not socialized much in the majority language may have difficulties upon entering school.

We recommend: 8 Unexpected Challenges of Raising Bilingual Children and 7 Powerful Reasons Why Bilingualism in Children Matters

3. Mixed System (MS) 

In families using a Mixed System strategy, one parent uses only the minority language (ml), and the other uses both the majority and minority language. 

The languages are used interchangeably in a way that feels organic to the family. 

Who Should Use this Strategy? 

Families who use a mixed system as a language policy might include: 

• Parents raising children in a two-language household 

• Parents who want to help their children become fluent in the minority language spoken by one parent 

Advantages and Disadvantages 

Having a bilingual parent is an out-the-gate advantage in helping kids learn a new language. 

One study found that in English and Spanish-speaking families who use this method, the children achieved bilingualism with a 93.42% success rate. 

Families might also find this language policy the most natural and beneficial to their child’s emotional development. With this approach, families can connect in both languages, meaning children will see the most authentic versions of their parents. 

However, in “Growing up with Two Languages: A Practical Guide for the Bilingual Family.”, J. Moore expresses a potential downside to this approach. “Our children will be bilingual and bicultural to the extent that we ourselves are,” he writes. 

Speaking in the minority language might require extra effort for the parent, and if they are not intentional about using the language frequently, the chances of their child growing up to be bilingual decreases. 

Do you want to help your child learn Spanish? Check out: Why Learning Spanish Is Your Child’s Key to a Better Future. 

4. Time and Place (T&P) 

With this approach, families will determine the appropriate settings to use each language. In other words, the child learns that there are specified times and places for the minority and majority languages.

Ways families might separate the use of language: 

• The family will speak in the minority language at home unless there are guests 
• The family will speak in the minority language on grocery trips, rides to school, and other errand activities
• The family will speak the majority language in public settings 
• The family will split languages between weekdays and weekends 

Who Should Use this Strategy? 

Here are a few families who might consider the time and place strategy: 

• Families who are native or fluent in more than one language 
• Families in which one or both parents has limited proficiency in a second language
• Families who want to introduce a language to their child later in life
• Single-parent families who want to raise bilingual children 

You might like: How to Raise a Bilingual Child in a Monolingual Household and 8 Reasons Why Bilingual Employees Get Paid More 

Advantages and Disadvantages 

The most significant advantage of this strategy is that families can customize it to their needs. Also, parents with native or fluent abilities in another language will have more opportunities to speak to their children in a second, third, or fourth language.

However, those who are not can still use this strategy within the limits of their proficiency. 

For example, a parent whose vocabulary is limited to basic day-to-day activities can switch back to the majority language when discussing more complicated subjects. 

There is not a lot of research surrounding the efficacy of the time and place approach, potentially because of its variability. 

However, the time and place strategy requires families to be consistent and adamant about speaking each language in the assigned setting. Doing so is possible, but parents might find it tricky to enforce. 

Additionally, if a child only hears the minority language in specific settings, they might not develop a full vocabulary or overall fluency. 

Spanish and Family Language Strategies 

At Homeschool Spanish Academy, we support families in their decision to learn any new language, but we have a special and strategic place in our hearts for Spanish.

The Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs reports that there are approximately 591 million Spanish speakers worldwide and that Spanish is the third most-used language on the internet. 

Imagine equipping your child with the ability to communicate with that many people worldwide.

Also, children who learn Spanish grow up to be dynamic and multi-skilled adults who are better at problem-solving and are often more empathetic individuals. 

On the professional front, being bilingual looks incredible on resumes, which opens doors for better employment opportunities, diverse jobs, and higher salaries.

The best part? You don’t have to know Spanish to help your children become fluent. 

At Homeschool Spanish Academy, we provide learners with live K–12 Spanish instruction from certified, native Spanish-speaking teachers using our expert-certified curriculum. 

With our classes, your child can work towards fluency, develop communication skills, and connect with trustworthy teachers whose passion is to help students achieve learner-specific language goals. 

Want to help your child learn Spanish? Check these articles: Top Cost-Effective Spanish Class Options for Kids and How to Teach Your Child Spanish 

Support Your Child’s Spanish Learning Journey 

These strategies may be the most effective in helping children achieve language proficiency. But at the end of the day, the best approach will be the one that fits your family’s unique needs. 

To support your child on their way to becoming bilingual in Spanish, consider signing up for a free trial class with one of our native Spanish-speaking teachers. 

Our online Spanish school excels in providing student-tailored Spanish programs that are straightforward. 

We can’t wait for your family 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 resources and learning strategies? 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)
• How to Build a Spanish Practice Routine That Sticks (And Doesn’t Spark Eye Rolls)
• Why Learning Spanish Feels Harder as an Adult, And What You Can Do About It
• 10 Ways Learning Spanish Can Improve Your Child’s Behavior
• 8 Places to Learn Spanish in Costa Rica

The post Which Family Language Strategy Works for You? appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

When it comes to age and language learning, the general consensus is that the earlier kids start, the better. Younger children are at a critical age when their brains can easily absorb new languages. However, this doesn’t mean older children can’t achieve fluency in a second language. 

One of the best languages to learn is Spanish. Not only is it the second most widely spoken language in the world, but it’s also spoken in many countries. Knowing Spanish is guaranteed to open many doors for your child, whether it’s for travel or career opportunities in the future.

Let’s dive a little deeper into what the science says about language learning at all ages and what you can do to set your child up for success as you plan for their bilingual future.

Who Is Homeschool Spanish Academy?
We’re an online Spanish school committed to empowering parents and their children to live happier lives, enjoy stronger learning outcomes, and experience real success. Learn more about our top-rated K-12 Spanish classes.  

Can Young Children Learn a New Language?

Absolutely. In fact, children who learn a second language at a young age—roughly up to the age of 7—can achieve the same proficiency level as native speakers. They’re also much more likely to speak their second language with a native-like accent. 

This is because young children’s brains are like thirsty sponges at this stage. From birth until the age of 7, their brains are extremely malleable. Every day, they’re soaking up information and sounds while hard-wiring neural connections that help them process, retain, and utilize language. 

Benefits of Learning Spanish for Young Children

One of the main benefits of children learning Spanish at a young age is the positive impact it has on their cognitive development. Studies have shown that children who are exposed to multiple languages from a young age have better problem-solving skills, improved memory, and greater ability to focus and pay attention. For example, a study by the University of Washington found that bilingual children as young as 7 months old were better at problem-solving and had more advanced cognitive skills than monolingual children of the same age.

As we get older, our brains lose this kind of flexibility. This makes it harder for older learners to become fluent, but it’s still possible. Most language researchers agree that when it comes to the best age to learn a new language, the earlier you can expose your children, the better. 

Mixing Languages: Is It Good or Bad?

But won’t this confuse your young child, as they’re also trying to master their native language?

Not at all. In fact, this is a common misconception about second language acquisition among young children. The research makes it clear that parents don’t need to worry about this. 

Research in this area has shown that code-switching, or switching between two or more languages in the same conversation, is a common and accepted way for young people to learn a language. For example, an English-Spanish bilingual child might say, “Quiero jugar outside” (I want to play outside) or “Please give me jugo de naranja” (Please give me orange juice). 

Some researchers even associate code-switching with bilingual proficiency, meaning they consider the ability to switch between languages as a marker of a person’s fluency in those languages. 

You might like: First 99 Spanish Words to Teach Your Child

Can Older Children Learn a New Language?

When is it too late to learn a language? The short answer is “never.” 

There is no such thing as a cut-off age for learning a new language. The old saying “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” simply does not apply here. If you didn’t get the chance to immerse your kids in the Spanish language while they were young, they can still become fluent with your help and some additional resources. 

Some researchers believe that although older language learners are not at the critical age for learning a new language, they have certain advantages. Because these students are more cognitively advanced, they can more easily grasp concepts like grammar, specialized vocabulary, and academic language. Their experience in educational settings and general socialization is a big help. Plus, older kids might be especially motivated to watch TV shows in Spanish or consume Spanish-language content on social media platforms. 

You might like: Educational TV Shows in Spanish for Kids

Benefits of Learning Spanish for Older Children

Education in Spanish beyond the age of 7 is highly beneficial for children’s academic success. Studies have shown that students who are proficient in a second language tend to perform better on standardized tests and have higher academic achievement overall. According to a study by the Center for Applied Linguistics, students who study a foreign language for at least four years by the end of high school are more likely to be proficient in other subjects such as math, science, and social studies.

Focus on Strategies and Not on Age

Rather than focusing on the when of age and language learning, parents should think critically about the how. Resources such as Spanish lessons with native speakers that focus on meeting students exactly where they are and teaching them in a way that sticks can help your older kids successfully acquire a second language. Just as playing sports and listening to music are great for development at all ages, so is learning a new language. 

Ultimately, when it comes to incorporating a second language into your older child’s life, the golden rule is, “Better late than never!”

You might like: How to Teach Your Child Spanish: 11 Easy Strategies

3 Quick Ideas To Help Your Child Learn Spanish

Whether your child is in that prime early window to learn Spanish or they’re about to sign up for their first high school Spanish class, there are several ways for you to support them. Consider these tips, and remember that the best way to help your kids navigate language learning is by doing what feels best for your family. 

1. Surround them with Spanish language content 

There are so many ways to be creative here and customize learning to your child’s interests. If your kid loves to read, encourage them to read books, magazines, or comics in Spanish. Give Spanish movies or TV shows a try, or head over to Spanish Academy TV for super helpful and engaging YouTube videos. The more your child hears, sees, and interacts with the Spanish language, the more efficiently they’ll acquire it. 

 Check out these Spanish-language content resources:

• 7 Best Books to Learn Spanish for Kids
• 8 Awesome Spanish Books for Kids in Elementary
• 6 Bilingual Spanish-English Learning Tablets for Kids

2. Interact with native speakers 

Consider ways you can expose your kids to native speakers. This could be a Spanish-speaking neighbor with whom your child practices greetings or a pen pal with whom your child exchanges letters. Writing to a pen pal is a fun way for kids to learn Spanish and learn about other cultures.

Check out:

• PenPal Schools
• Global Penfriends  

You might like: 10 Reasons to Learn Language With Native Speakers

3. Spanish classes with kid-friendly teachers

Immersion is vital to language learning, and one of the best ways to provide this to kids is through instructional classes with experienced teachers.

At Homeschool Spanish Academy, we provide learners with live K–12 Spanish instruction from certified, native Spanish-speaking teachers using our top-rated, expert-approved curriculum. This is an excellent way for students to work on their language fluency and communication skills and connect with trustworthy teachers whose passion is to help students achieve learner-specific language goals. 

Customize Your Child’s Spanish Learning Journey

When it comes to age and language learning, science tells us that the earlier you start your kids, the better. However, it is still possible for older kids to become proficient and even fluent speakers with the right support and resources. 

If you’re interested in giving your kids a leg up on learning Spanish with a native-speaking teacher, consider signing up for our free trial class. Our instructors specialize in providing student-tailored Spanish programs and flexible scheduling to make it easy and convenient for your family.

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

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

“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

“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

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

– Erica P. Parent of 1

Ready for more Spanish Learning Strategies? 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)
• How to Build a Spanish Practice Routine That Sticks (And Doesn’t Spark Eye Rolls)
• Why Learning Spanish Feels Harder as an Adult, And What You Can Do About It
• 10 Ways Learning Spanish Can Improve Your Child’s Behavior
• 8 Places to Learn Spanish in Costa Rica

The post What’s the Best Age for Kids To Learn Spanish? appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

Semana Santa is an incredibly important religious holiday in Spain, but it also plays a significant role in their history and cultural identity. 

Let’s dive into all you need to know about Semana Santa in Spain and explore 10 surprising facts you may not know! 

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

1. Parades typically showcase up to 40 different extravagant floats.

Semana Santa is best known for its grand processions. 

Between 20 and 40 costaleros, or “bearers,” work together to carry the large floats weighing more than 2,204 lbs (1,000 kg). It’s a great honor to be a costalero and to carry one of these floats, called pasos in Spanish. 

On each paso, you’ll find intricate sculptures of Jesus and Mother Mary that depict scenes from the story of Christ and carry incense and flowers. 

Many of these beautiful masterpieces date back to the 16th century and are treasured cultural relics. 

2. Semana Santa celebrations date back to the 16th century.

Did you know Semana Santa has been celebrated since medieval times in Spain?

In the 16th century, the Catholic Church decided that believers should express their appreciation for the story of Christ through outward displays of devotion. 

Since then, townspeople have participated in the various processions and vigils that continue today.

Despite being one of Spain’s oldest festivals, it is still one of its most important holidays. Many businesses and restaurants close as families head to their villages and enjoy a week of eating, resting, remembering, and celebrating.

You might like: A Brief Introduction to Spanish Culture, Traditions, and Beliefs 

3. Holy Thursday celebrations last all night until Good Friday.

Imagine attending a parade celebration that lasts an entire night! 

That’s precisely what many Spaniards do during La Madruga, the night between Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. People gather in the town streets to eat, drink, and be merry until dawn. 

On Holy Saturday, some Spaniards will remain silent to pay respect to the death of Jesus. With the rising sun on Sunday, they light a candle and wrap up their week of festivities.  

4. Over 1 million tourists visit Seville during Semana Santa. 

Did you know that people travel from all over the world to experience Holy Week in Spain?

In the Andalusian city of Seville, celebrations were declared a Fiesta of International Tourist Interest and continue to bring in over 1 million visitors every year! 

Despite the influx of visitors across the country, much of Spain shuts down during Holy Week. Many shops, restaurants, and businesses will close their doors to take part in celebrating Semana Santa. 

Planning to be a tourist in Spain?
You might like: How to Use ‘Vosotros’ When Talking to Spanish Speakers or What’s the ‘Spanish Lisp’? All About the Ceceo

5. Barefooted women in black dresses and hooded men are symbols of Holy Week in Spain.

If you search for photos of Semana Santa, you’ll likely come across the Mujeres de la Mantilla (women in the veil) and the Nazarenos (men of Nazareth). 

During the processions, young girls and women known as the Mujeres de Mantilla wear somber black clothing and lace head coverings to mourn the suffering of Christ. These women have inspired works by Francisco de Goya and are a symbol of femininity in Spain. 

The Nazarenos, a brotherhood group, lead the processions in silence, often without shoes, and wearing large capes and hoods that cover their faces. Customarily, the Nazarenos wear colors belonging to their brotherhood and location and often carry candles or lanterns. 

6. Andalusia is home to the most significant celebrations. 

If you’re headed south for Easter, be sure to pack comfortable shoes because some celebrations last up to 16 hours! 

In Seville, Malaga, Granada, and Cordóba, you can see some of the most elaborate displays of art and the biggest celebrations in the country. Residents go all out when designing their floats for parades, and their effort certainly shows. 

Here, you’ll see stars singing saetas from balconies, musical groups playing the bugle and drums through the streets, and residents adorning the outside of their homes with beautiful decorations. 

7. Famous Flamenco singers are invited to perform. 

During a moment in the procession, the streets go quiet as everyone turns their attention to a spotlit balcony in anticipation of the Saeta—a sad type of religious song that mourns the suffering of Christ. 

The saeta is typically sung a cappella by a professional flamenco singer wearing the traditional black clothing of the Mujeres de Mantilla. Its musical style is similar to some kinds of Flamenco folklore.

Since the songs involve complex singing techniques and are incredibly hard to master, receiving an invitation to sing the saeta is a great honor. Even famous Spanish celebrities like Antonio Banderas come to witness the unique talent. 

8. Catalonians celebrate Semana Santa with skeletons.

While most parts of the country spend Maundy Thursday recreating scenes of the Last Supper, in the region of Catalonia, you’ll find lively performances called the Dance of Death (Danza de la Muerte). 

A group of five skeletons performs the dance number. One carries a scythe that reads ‘death forgives no one’ while another waves a flag with the inscription “life can be short.” 

The Catalonians have celebrated this tradition since the Middle Ages to recognize the inevitability of death.

9. Traditional Semana Santa desserts were originally used in postpartum recovery.

Torrijas, a dessert similar to American French toast, are a delicious delicacy enjoyed by Spanish families throughout the country.

But did you know that around 1600, torrijas were given to new mothers to help with their recovery? Some speculate this was due to meat shortages, while others claim torrijas are simply easier to digest. 

Whatever the case, the dessert evolved to be a popular staple during the 20th century in the taverns of Madrid and continues in popularity today. 

If you’re visiting Spain during Semana Santa, you’ll likely be able to find fresh torrijas in local bakeries and restaurants. 

10. Sacred Hearts are an important symbol of Semana Santa in Spain.

One of the most well-known symbols you’ll find throughout Semana Santa celebrations is that of the Sacred Heart, el sagrado corazón.

The Sacred Heart has been depicted in art for centuries, and you’ll find the image of a glowing heart wrapped in thorns on clothes, banners, and figurines. The symbol captures the life, love, and sacrifice of Christ.

Speak Spanish Today With Native Speakers

Semana Santa is one of the most important festivals in Spain, but that is just part of what makes the holiday so important. Did you know they also celebrate Semana Santa in Latin American countries?

At Homeschool Spanish Academy, we provide student-tailored programs to help students establish a strong foundation of Spanish speaking and comprehension. 

Our certified teachers provide flexible scheduling and can prepare you with the Spanish skills you need to pack your bags and head to Spain for Semana Santa!Sign up for a free trial 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

Learn more about Hispanic culture and Spanish language:

• From Snacks to Dinners: Spanish Vocabulary for Food That Teens Actually Talk About
• What to Say When You’re Not Sure What to Say – in Spanish!
• Real Spanish for Real Life: Top Beginner Phrases
• 13 Hilarious Latino Dad Jokes
• Languages in Spain: How Many Languages Are Spoken in Spain?
• What’s the Difference Between Hispanic and Latino?
• Which Languages Do They Speak in Brazil?
• 6 Unique Festivals in Spain You Won’t Find Anywhere Else

The post 10 Surprising Facts About Semana Santa in Spain appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.