More U.S. Kids Growing Up Bilingual

I heard a piece on the radio today:
More U.S. kids growing up bilingual

Someone mentioned Language Lizard as a good source for dual language books, as well as audio books of stories in other languages. And if you're looking for a good reason to teach your kids a second language, how about this: research shows that it helps stave off dementia in later years.

Best to start 'em young!!

I still talk to MetaBoy in Spanish, though admittedly not as continuously as I'd like. We do try to get in a book in Spanish most days. His current choice is Ocho Monitos (Eight Monkeys). He definitely learns at a greater pace these days. However, given his greater exposure to English, with some Spanish thrown in for good measure, understanding him can be a bit challenging. It doesn't help that he is now listening to and repeating what he hears on the radio. One day, I caught him saying "get up, stand up." I only realized what he was saying when I heard Bob Marley in the background on the radio.

Teaching My Son Spanish

I speak Spanish fluently, and I've been trying to speak to my son so he can learn. It's hard to remember to speak throughout the day because I'm just not used to it. I prefer English because it's my stronger language, but I haven't given up on teaching Spanish, yet. That said, I haven't given up on my husband either. I'm hoping the conversations my son and I have will motivate my husband to join the game.

What's helped a bit is buying books, which means I can read fluid rhymes to him that keep his attention a bit longer. The selection of books out there these days is great. Some I have or would like to buy include:

Froggy Gets Dressed
I Had a Hippopotamus
Big Dog/Little Dog
Green Eggs and Ham
Good Night Moon
The Hungry Caterpillar

He has a lot of energy so sitting down with me for a whole story is unlikely, but it's a good start. Besides, it reminds me to keep on him.

On that note, I found a cute website that has old tales translated into Spanish like Little Red Riding Hood and The Ugly Duckling.