Are you dreaming of returning home after your year in Spain with your family speaking fluent Spanish?
My top tip: start learning the basics of the language before you arrive. Learn as much as you can before stepping into your new everyday life in Spain. It’s the key to a smoother, more enjoyable transition and to building a solid foundation for developing your language skills. This advice applies to everyone in the family, including the youngest !
Schools across Spain, which welcome foreign children every year, emphasize the same advice: preparation is key.
You’ve likely heard that kids absorb new languages like sponges. While younger children often pick up a new language naturally, kids over eight usually benefit from structured guidance to help them build confidence and fluency.
Start Learning Before You Move
- For Children above eight: Dedicate at least a couple of hours per week to Spanish lessons. In-person classes are particularly effective, giving kids a chance to build familiarity with the language in a supportive setting. To enhance the learning process, consider incorporating Spanish into their daily routine—choose TV programs in Spanish, hire a Spanish-speaking babysitter, or join a Spanish-speaking play group in your area. These immersive experiences can make learning engaging and enjoyable!
- For Adults: Online lessons with a Spanish tutor offer flexibility and are an excellent way to get started. Choosing a tutor from the region you’ll be moving to is a bonus—they can introduce you to local expressions and accents to make settling in even easier. We’re happy to recommend trusted tutors to help you begin learning Spanish now.
Once You’re in Spain
Spain is home to many schools that specialize in teaching Spanish to foreigners. When choosing one, look for schools that combine language learning with cultural immersion and cater to your family’s specific needs.
- If you’re moving to Granada and love flamenco culture, the renowned Carmen de las Cuevas school in the Sacromonte neighborhood offers a unique blend of language and flamenco lessons, perfect for immersing yourself in this vibrant tradition.
- If you’re seeking a family-friendly environment, CastiLa International Language School is an exceptional option. It offers personalized lessons for all ages, including special summer camps to prepare kids for attending Spanish schools in September. On top, CastiLa also organizes visits to local schools, helping kids meet their teachers and classmates before the school year begins.
If you haven ‘t had time to build your Spanish language skills, it’s still okay to move to Spain! State schools run special classes for kids above 8 years old to help with adaptation and language (ATAL program), and hiring a tutor for personalized attention will provide all the help the children need.
Starting your Spanish journey early is one of the best investments you can make in your family’s adventure. It’s the foundation for settling in quickly, building connections with locals, and making the most of your year in Spain!
