“First lesson, you can pronounce anything”
Adrian from The Spanish Academy believes anyone can speak Spanish on the first try
Adrian’s emphasis was on having fun while learning, being understood and at some point getting the chance to spend time in Spain - a great starting point for families who considering another language for their child
The Spanish Academy is a top Spanish school founded by Adrian and David, offering a fun, play-based approach to learning a new language - the second most spoken in the world. They offer a Pasitos program for babies and toddlers right up to adult classes
I wanted to know why you'd pick Spanish if you are already bi-lingual or even tri-lingual in Hong Kong
I asked why learn Spanish rather than French or German.
“It is the second most spoken native language in the world. When they realise this fact, they directly go for Spanish.”
“Pronunciation-wise it is much easier… You have five vowels, A, E, I, O, U. Good luck with French.”
I asked about the rolled R, surely almost impossible for a non-native!
“That’s a lost battle… But it’s not essential. If you do dr, dr, dr as in drum, it’s totally fine. You’ll get yourself understood — that’s the goal of a language.”
“You don’t need a perfect roll of the tongue. You need to get yourself understood.”
I asked how a non-Spanish speaking family can support their child.
“They need to have input through movies, they need to listen to songs and spend some time exposed to the language. Instead of listening to English songs, Canto pop, Korean pop, just go for Spanish pop.”
As a father with kids speaking a mix of four languages, I asked whether they get confused.
“Many people think that handling many languages at early stages is confusing to them, but I don’t think so, and I’ve seen it with my eyes. They simply use the words that are easier for them to express themselves, expecting you to understand.”
Ask the teacher for songs, books, stories on how to practice with your child - what's a manageable routine at home
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