616: How Much Spanish Do You Need to Speak For Your Child to Become Bilingual?

Raising bilingual kids in a mostly English-speaking world can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not fluent or if your Spanish isn’t “perfect.” Maybe you speak Spanglish, maybe you’re still learning, or maybe you're wondering if you're doing enough.

But here’s the good news, you don’t need to be 100% fluent to raise a bilingual child. In fact, you might be doing more than you think.

In this episode, we’re breaking down how much Spanish exposure your child actually needs, what you can do if you’re not confident in your language skills, and how to build a strong bilingual foundation, no matter your level.

• How much Spanish exposure is really needed to support bilingual development.

• Why fluency isn’t required (and what matters more).

• How to make the most of the Spanish you do speak.

• Where to find helpful resources if you need support.

• Simple ways to boost exposure at home—even in busy, everyday life.

3 Things to Know About Speaking Spanish at Home

1. Kids Need 20–40% Exposure

Research shows that children need 20 to 40% exposure to a language in order to begin absorbing and using it. That means you don’t need to speak Spanish all day, every day, just consistently enough to create meaningful input.

If your child hears Spanish at home in regular, daily moments (mealtime, bedtime, playtime), they’re already on their way.

2. Use What You Know and and Supplement the Rest

Don’t let fear or self-doubt hold you back. If you’re not confident in your Spanish, lean on support tools:

• Bilingual books

• Kids’ podcasts

• Music in Spanish

• Spanish-speaking caregivers or abuelos

• Shows with Spanish audio

You don’t have to do it all yourself. Think of yourself as the guide, not the entire curriculum.

3. Speak as Much as You Can, Habla Más Español!

The more Spanish you speak, the fewer outside resources you’ll need. Every little word adds up! Try:

• Narrating daily tasks: “Vamos a cepillarnos los dientes.”

• Using Spanish during routines and transitions

• Repeating common phrases in both languages

• Choosing Spanish TV or music during downtime

Even if your grammar isn’t perfect, your child benefits from the consistency and effort.

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Additional Apps, Classes, & Resources:

• Online Course: How to Raise a Bilingual Spanish Child

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Final Thoughts

You don’t need to speak perfect Spanish.
You just need to show up and make it part of your child’s world.

Whether you’re speaking a little or a lot, you’re planting the seeds of bilingualism and that’s a beautiful gift of identity, opportunity, and culture.  Algún día te lo agradecerán.