Should we stop speaking Spanish to our toddler, who has a speech delay, and switch to English to help him communicate better?

 

Should we stop speaking Spanish to our child, who has a speech delay, and switch to English to help him communicate better?

It’s understandable to feel worried, but please know you’re not failing as a parent. Many children develop expressive language at different rates, and speech delays can happen for a variety of reasons unrelated to bilingualism. Research consistently shows that raising children bilingually does not cause speech delays or confusion. In fact, bilingualism can offer cognitive, social, and cultural benefits over time. You are not "going wrong" by speaking Spanish to your son. If Spanish feels natural for you, it’s important to continue using it—it’s how you connect and bond with him. Here’s why it’s okay to stay the course: Speech Development in Any Language: A child’s ability to learn words and communicate isn’t dependent on the language spoken but on the opportunities for interaction and exposure. Language Models: The quality of language exposure is more important than the quantity. Speak in the language you are most comfortable with because this will allow you to provide the richest input. Professional Guidance: The speech therapist did not suggest stopping Spanish, which is a good sign that bilingualism isn’t seen as the root cause of the delay. Follow her tips consistently, regardless of the language you’re speaking. Tips to Support Communication While Sticking to Spanish: Use short, simple phrases and repeat them often. For example, say, “Mira el perro. El perro está saltando. Salta, salta el perro.” Pair words with gestures, pointing, or signing to reinforce meaning. Read books in Spanish with lots of pictures, naming each object or action. Narrate your day: Talk to your son about what you’re doing (e.g., “Ahora vamos a comer. Aquí está tu plato. Vamos a cortar la manzana.”). Encourage imitation: Make animal sounds or play games like peek-a-boo while using simple words like “¡Cucu! Aquí estoy.” Follow the therapist’s strategies in Spanish. If they’re effective in English, they’ll work in Spanish too! It’s also worth sharing your concerns with the speech therapist, especially regarding bilingualism. They can give you additional reassurance and guidance. Stick with Spanish if it feels right for your family—your son is on his own unique timeline, and bilingualism will remain a gift for his future. ❤️ Start 2025 with us! Here’s my gift to you: Free Music for Babies 🎶 Playlist for Babies Free Music for Kids 3+ 🎵 Playlist for Kids Free Coaching & Consultation 🗓 Schedule Here 📖 Understand Your Level For Teachers: Learn how to integrate my materials into your classroom with a free consultation. The Mamaestra Toolbox is designed to last years and can be shared with others! Our philosophy is rooted in the 4 Cs: Creer: Believe in the process. Crear: Create time and spaces for learning. Criar: Raise global citizens who speak at least two languages. Crecer: Grow together, both neurologically and emotionally, through language and connection. Let’s work together to create a brighter, bilingual future for your family. Join My Tribe: 👥 Facebook Group 📸 Instagram 🎥 TikTok Be part of our Whatsapp Group Be part of our FACEBOOK Group There are courses for other children.  Spanish tutoring - Spanish Classes - Spanish reading

How I Teach Au Pairs and Nannies to Use My Mamaestra Program to Teach Spanish to Your Young Children

How I Teach Au Pairs and Nannies to Use My Mamaestra Program to Teach Spanish to Your Young Children Using my materials, I guide au pairs and nannies step-by-step to implement a structured and engaging program. Here's the framework we follow: 1. The Lesson Each lesson begins with a clear focus on what we aim to teach, including new vocabulary, grammatical structures, and themes. 2. Vocabulary We emphasize specific words or phrases that align with the theme, ensuring consistent reinforcement. 3. Grammatical Structures We introduce and practice the sentence structures necessary for the child’s level, gradually building complexity. 4. Suggested Activities Interactive activities, including: Art Projects: Draw, paint, or craft related to the vocabulary or theme. Role Playing: Act out stories using the vocabulary. 5. Goals and Assessment Our goal is to encourage children to respond to questions and demonstrate comprehension. For example: If teaching parts of the face: “¿Dónde está la nariz?” (Where is the nose?). If the child is older, questions can extend to include sentences or descriptions. 6. Readings Incorporate mini-booklets and stories. Use visual aids: draw, act, or role-play during the reading to engage the child. Ask targeted questions based on the vocabulary or theme. 7. Role Playing Encourage the child to retell the story, fostering confidence in their language skills. 8. Games Games help reinforce learning in a playful manner, making the process enjoyable and effective. 9. Moving to the Next Chapter Once the child demonstrates understanding and can respond confidently, we advance to the next chapter or theme.This structured approach not only keeps learning fun but also ensures meaningful progress. Chech out this note: Eighty percent of their brain’s physical development happens during their first 3 years. As their brain gets bigger, it also forms the connections it needs to think, learn, and process information. These connections, called synapses, form at a super-fast rate, about 700 per second in the first few years. Check out our courses! Be part of this Group Be part of this Group Be part of this Group We got some dddddd Be part of our Whatsapp Group Be part of our FACEBOOK Group There are courses for other children.  Spanish tutoring - Spanish Classes - Spanish reading