716: Dr.Villarroel, Dual Language vs. Bilingual Programs: What Parents Need to Know

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Note: This blog post accompanies Episode 716  “Understanding Dual Language & Bilingual Education with Dr. Villaroel.” Here you’ll find the essential takeaways, clarifying the real differences between dual language and bilingual programs, and tools you can use to advocate for your child’s bilingual journey at home and in school. ¡Disfruta!

What if setting your child up for bilingual success didn’t have to be a mystery? In this enlightening episode, hosts Janny Perez and Dr. Villaroel break down what bilingual education programs actually look like, address common parent fears, and share confidence-boosting tips for supporting your child’s Spanish, no matter your own fluency.

Whether you’re confused about “dual language” versus “bilingual,” worried your child isn’t learning enough, or looking for home strategies, this episode is packed with actionable guidance, plus inspiring stories and research-backed advice.

Show Promos You Don't Want to Miss:

REGISTER FOR THE FREE FEBRUARY WORKSHOP:  WHY YOUR CHILD ISN'T LEARNING SPANISH AND HOW TO FIX IT IN 2026

Timestamps & What You’ll Discover

02:42 – The Value of Your Heritage Language Is a Superpower
Learn why your family’s Spanish is an asset, not a setback, and how to honor it on your bilingual journey.

04:16 – Meet Dr. Villaroel: Dual Language Specialist & Advocate
Hear her inspiring immigrant story, bilingual parenting journey, and work with families in education.

08:07 – How Kids Really Learn Languages
Stories of language immersion, busting the “age cutoff” myth, and why you shouldn’t give up if your child isn’t fluent yet.

11:19 – From Teacher to Multilingual Consultant
How Dr. Villaroel’s professional roles shaped her advocacy for Latino families and school communities.

17:11 – Major Misconceptions About Bilingual & Dual Language Education
Clarity on what these terms actually mean, and why academic Spanish is much more than “just speaking at home.”

18:52 – What Are the Different Kinds of Bilingual Programs?
Early Exit, Late Exit, Dual Language (One-Way & Two-Way): what these mean for your child and what to look for at your school.

24:41 – Why Dual Language Is Growing (and Why It Matters!)
How school districts are shifting toward dual language programs — and why that’s a win for all kids.

25:56 – Ways Parents Can Advocate & Support Bilingualism at Home
Practical tips to enrich your language environment, whether or not you’re fluent — including labeling, media, and songs.

28:34 – Resources for Homeschoolers and Nontraditional Families
What to do if you don’t have access to a dual immersion school; where to find or request resources.

29:46 – The Biggest Challenges for Parents in Dual Language
Support for non-bilingual parents, dealing with confidence issues, and why “some Spanish is better than none.”

32:06 – Connect with Dr. Villaroel
Where to find dual language guidance, groups, and support — no matter where you live.

About  Dr. Villarroel

About Janny Perez

• Janny Perez is a passionate advocate for raising bilingual children and preserving Latino heritage.

• She is the voice behind "The Latina Mom Legacy" podcast and the bilingual parenting educator behind Confident Bilingual Parenting .

• She inspires parents with her own journey, moving beyond simply reading or singing to her child in Spanish. Janny knows that true bilingualism requires more than casual exposure, it demands intention, planning, and consistent strategies.

• Through her story, Janny empowers families to overcome self-doubt and create new traditions grounded in mindful language learning, helping children thrive in both Spanish and their Latino culture.

• Follow on all social media platforms @milegasi or @thelatinamomlegacy

Fast Bilingual Parenting Takeaways:

• Academic language is different from home language — schools teach content AND language.

• Dual language programs help kids grow both languages, not lose one for the other.

• Exposure and advocacy are crucial: don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek support.

• You can create a language-rich home, even with limited fluency or resources.

Viral Quotes from the Episode

“Your first language and the knowledge that you bring is a starting point in your life — that has value.” -Dr. Villarroel

“I am an advocate for dual language education... it is the one that keeps and increases the first language while the student is also learning a second language.”  -Dr. Villarroel

“Parents think their children aren’t learning the language just because they don’t hear it, but children have a huge capacity to acquire language — don’t give up.” -Janny Perez

“Some Spanish is better than no Spanish. Giving them some tools for communication is better than no tools.”  -Janny Perez

Resources & Sources Mentioned in the Podcast

Free workshop: Why Your Child Isn’t Learning Spanish & How to Change It (2026)

Dr. Villaroel’s Linked In

Confident Bilingual Parenting Course

Milegasi Newsletter 

More free printables + resources at milegasi.com

How You Can Support & Engage

• Apply to Be a Guest  – Share your bilingual parenting story!

• Leave a Review – Apple Podcast or Spotify. Your feedback helps more families discover the show.

• Join the Newsletter – La Lista at Milegasi.com. Get exclusive tips, printables, and updates!

• Interested in Sponsoring the Show? Reach an engaged bilingual parenting community. Contact us → Sponsorship info

Connect on Social Media

• Instagram: @milegasi

• Threads: @milegasi

• Podcast Instagram: @thelatinamomlegacy

• Pinterest: @milegasi
  
  

Final Thoughts

Bilingualism is a legacy,  a family gift, grounded in love, culture, and resilience. Armed with real information and actionable strategies, you can confidently advocate for your child and nurture Spanish at home. Remember, cada pasito cuenta. You don’t have to do it alone. Tu comunidad te apoya.

Want more bilingual parenting help, resources, and encouragement? Visit milegasi.com and join our next event!