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Note: This blog post accompanies Episode 711 of The Latina Mom Legacy, where Janny Perez uncovers the real reasons behind declining reading scores, what this means for bilingual families, and the 6 steps you can use to foster a love of reading at home, no matter how busy you are. Get practical, heartfelt advice and actionable tips to boost literacy and connection in your familia. ¡Vamos!
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What if improving your child’s literacy didn’t feel stressful or overwhelming? In this episode, Janny Perez shares eye-opening data about the U.S. reading crisis, breaks down what it means for bilingual households, and equips you with simple, research-backed routines to make reading a joyful, cultural, and everyday part of your legacy.
Timestamps & What You’ll Discover
02:08 – The Reading Crisis in U.S. Schools
How national reading scores are dropping and why it matters for Latino and bilingual families.
04:43 – What the Data Actually Says
By grade level: Understanding the proficiency gap in 4th, 8th, and 12th grade—and why gaps start early.
07:35 – Top Reasons Why Kids Fall Behind in Reading
Attendance, screen time, stress, environment, and challenges unique to bilingual families.
10:41 – Why Bilingual Kids Have a Literacy “Superpower”
The surprising ways reading in two languages actually boosts memory, focus, and reading speed!
13:06 – 6 Steps to Help Parents Can Increase Literacy in Kids
28:36 – Recap and Invitation
A rundown of the key takeaways, plus details on Janny Perez's free bilingual parenting workshop.
Quick Bilingual Parenting Takeaways
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U.S. reading scores are declining, but YOU have the power to turn it around at home.
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Consistent reading (even just 10 minutes per day) in both English and Spanish lays the groundwork for confidence and academic success.
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Reading together fosters language skills, critical thinking, and a lifelong bond between you and your child.
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Creative routines and fun motivators make reading something kids want not something they have to do.
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Modeling reading and using both digital and physical books benefits all ages.
About Janny Perez
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Janny Perez is a passionate advocate for raising bilingual children and preserving Latino heritage.
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She is the voice behind "The Latina Mom Legacy" podcast and the bilingual parenting educator behind Confident Bilingual Parenting .
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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.
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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.
Viral Quotes from This Episode
Janny Perez:
“If there is one thing you can do with your child, above anything else—foster a love of reading early on.”
“Reading isn’t just about schoolwork. It’s about confidence, vocabulary, and an opportunity to connect with our culture.”
Resources & Sources Mentioned in the Podcast
Studies:
- National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) Reading Results (grade 4 & 8)
- NAEP Reading Results (Grade 12)
- Why Bilingual Students Have a Cognitive Advantage for Learning to Read
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Contributions of bilingual home environment and language proficiency on children’s Spanish–English reading outcomes
- Bilingualism and Development of Literacy in Children
Resources:
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Nobody Told me This About Raising a Bilingual Child Book
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🎉 Confident Bilingual Parenting Course (Includes milestone trackers, exposure strategies, and mindset modules)
- More free printables + resources at milegasi.com
How You Can Support & Engage
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Apply to Be a Guest – Share your bilingual parenting story!
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Leave a Review – Apple Podcast or Spotify. Your feedback helps more families discover the show.
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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
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Instagram: @milegasi
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Threads: @milegasi
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Podcast Instagram: @thelatinamomlegacy
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Pinterest: @milegasi
Final Thoughts
Raising strong readers (and bilingual kids) is simpler than you think. Small, consistent reading habits, encouragement in both languages, and building joyful routines will nurture not only literacy but also unbreakable family connection and cultural pride. Remember, you don’t have to do it perfectly. Start small, show up, and watch your child’s confidence soar. Tú puedes.
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