10 of the best websites to help your child learn Spanish. Whether you’re thinking of moving to Spain or have already settled here. Here are some online language learning platforms to help your child adjust to the new language.
Sending your child to a new school in a different country can be daunting, especially when they need to learn a new language. When we moved to Valencia nine years ago, we ensured our children started learning basic Spanish both before and after our move. However, this doesn’t mean they grasped the language immediately. In public or concertado schools in Valencia, it’s likely your child will also need to learn Valenciano.
Schoolwork in Spain is demanding, and if your child struggles with both languages, they may face challenges or even risk repeating a year. My youngest son, now 13, has been exposed to both languages since he was five, yet he still finds some aspects difficult. That’s why we continue to use online tutoring.
I started this blog to help other expats with kids by sharing our experiences. Learning the language isn’t always easy, and extra help can be crucial, especially during exams. Continuous language learning has made a big difference for my son and helps keep me sane!
Many parents ask for recommendations on how to help their children start learning Spanish. The best place to start is by asking locally—teachers often know of resources. If local options aren’t available, online learning websites can be incredibly helpful. Here are some that I recommend:
10 Best Learning Websites To Help Your Child Learn Spanish
To help your child acclimate to the Spanish language before moving to Spain, it’s beneficial to introduce them to the language early. Learning Spanish before starting school can greatly enhance their comfort and confidence. Here are some excellent websites that can help your child learn Spanish before your move to Valencia. Check them out!
1. Tutor Hunt
Tutor Hunt connects students with private tutors for both online and in-person tuition across a wide range of subjects. For kids learning Spanish, the platform offers specialised tutors who provide personalised lessons tailored to each child’s learning pace and needs. The service includes a searchable database of tutors, reviews, and qualifications, ensuring quality and safety with DBS checks.
2. Muzzy
Muzzy, developed by the BBC, is a language learning program for children that teaches Spanish through fun and engaging animated stories. The program uses a natural immersion approach and includes online games, vocabulary videos, printable worksheets, flashcards, and sing-along songs. It is accessible on all devices with an internet connection and supports children of all ages and abilities.
3 . Mondly
Mondly Kids is a language learning app that makes learning Spanish fun and engaging for children through interactive games, songs, and activities. The app features daily lessons, high-quality audio from native speakers, and age-appropriate topics to keep kids motivated.
4. Gus On The Go
Gus on the Go is a fun language learning app for kids, helping them learn Spanish through interactive lessons and vocabulary games. It covers nearly 90 vocabulary words in categories like animals, food, and transportation. The app also includes engaging stories to enhance language skills further.
5. iTalki
iTalki offers personalized 1-on-1 Spanish lessons for kids aged 5-17 with qualified teachers. The platform tailors lessons to each child’s learning goals, ensuring engaging and effective language acquisition through interactive activities and games. Teachers on iTalki are experienced in making language learning fun and motivating for children.
6. Foreign Languages For Kids
Foreign Languages for Kids by Kids (FL4K) is an immersive Spanish learning program for children ages 3 and up. It uses engaging videos featuring kids using Spanish in everyday situations, making the language relatable and fun. The program also includes workbooks, games, and teacher guides to reinforce learning and cultural understanding.
7. Speekify
Speekify is an engaging language learning platform for kids, offering interactive Spanish lessons through fun stories, games, and activities. It uses immersive techniques to help children learn and practice Spanish in an enjoyable way, making language acquisition feel like play.
8. Preply
Preply offers personalized 1-on-1 Spanish lessons for kids, taught by experienced tutors. The platform allows you to choose from over 7,000 Spanish tutors who tailor lessons to fit your child’s interests and learning goals. Lessons focus on vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar, listening, and speaking, using engaging and interactive materials.
9. Duolingo
Duolingo is a popular language learning app that offers fun, game-like lessons in various languages, including Spanish. It uses interactive exercises to help users build vocabulary, improve pronunciation, and practice grammar. With its engaging and adaptive learning system, Duolingo makes learning Spanish accessible and enjoyable for learners of all ages.
10. Babbel
Babbel is an effective language learning app designed to help kids learn Spanish through structured lessons and engaging activities. It offers interactive courses that focus on practical vocabulary and conversational skills, making language learning enjoyable and accessible. With Babbel, kids can develop their Spanish language abilities at their own pace.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your child for the transition to Spanish before moving to Valencia can significantly boost their confidence and ease their integration. Learning the basics is crucial to help them avoid feeling isolated in the classroom. You can support their bilingual education by utilising online language learning platforms or apps, encouraging them to read Spanish books, watch Spanish YouTube videos, and tune into Spanish TV shows.
Are you using an online platform to help your child learn Spanish? How is it going? Can you recommend any resources? Share your experiences in the comments!