Rivendell school is back in full swing. Students are eager to learn Spanish and apply their language skills. Here are 10 things Spanish teachers want parents to know:
1. Your child is learning Spanish. They understand and know more than you realize.
2. Language is more than words. We want to connect kids to people, cultures and history behind the words they learn.
3. Spanish is not a foreign language. More than 40 million people in the U.S. speak Spanish at home, and we believe learning Spanish is important for all kids. We also understand cultural identity is complex. We will support all home cultures in any way we can.
4. Learning a language is a lifelong process. Mastering a second language requires many years of consistent exposure and practice.
5. There is a method to the madness. Really! A methodology, in fact. Sometimes it looks like fun and games, but it is carefully structured language input.
6. Language teachers work really hard. Every word we say to our students is the content we are teaching, so we interact intentionally. Each word is an opportunity! We love it, and we get good at it, but it also makes us tired.
7. We appreciate your help. Any contact with Spanish helps your child learn. We are happy to recommend songs, apps, books and ways to work Spanish into your daily routines.
8. The benefits of learning Spanish go beyond the language. Learning Spanish develops vocabulary in English, confidence and an understanding and appreciation of community and the world.
9. We know there is more to your child’s life than Spanish. We care about your child. If there are things we need to know to help them learn, tell us.
10. Learning Spanish is worth the work. Your child will thank you.
