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Does This Sound Like You, Amiga?
Are you frustrated that your child understands Spanish, but always answers you in English?
Do you worry that no matter how much you try, English seems to take over at home?
Have you ever wondered if you’re “failing” at raising a bilingual child because your hijo doesn’t speak as much Spanish as you hoped?
If so, you are not alone—and this episode is for you.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
In this episode, we get real about one of the biggest bilingual mamá struggles: why children can understand much more Spanish than they actually speak. Janny explains why this is common among bilingual children and shares practical ways to help your child move from understanding Spanish to using more of it in everyday life.
You’ll learn three practical, judgment-free strategies to encourage more Spanish through meaningful situations, daily routines, and real conversations. Whether Spanish is your first language or you’re learning alongside your child, these ideas can help you nurture bilingualism without pressure, perfectionism, or sacrificing your connection with your child.
Memorable Quote
“Understanding isn't the finish line, it's just the starting point.”
Timestamps & What You’ll Discover
01:44 — When Your Child Understands Spanish But Answers in English
Why this is a common bilingual parenting struggle and why forcing your child to speak Spanish isn't the answer.
03:09 — Why Understanding and Speaking Are Different
The difference between receptive and expressive language and why bilingual children may understand more than they speak.
04:08 — How to Create a Need to Use Spanish
Simple ways to create real-life opportunities for your child to use Spanish instead of simply understanding it.
05:34 — Why English Becomes the Default
How everyday habits can teach your child which language “works” and what you can do when English keeps winning out.
07:19 — Need-Based & Emotional Spanish
How to move beyond basic words like “agua” and “leche” and encourage your child to communicate thoughts, feelings, and needs in Spanish.
08:19 — Real Conversations, Not Just Commands
Why back-and-forth conversations can create more opportunities for your child to use Spanish.
Quick Bilingual Parenting Takeaways
- It’s normal for bilingual kids to understand more Spanish than they speak.
- Receptive and expressive language can develop at different rates.
- Give your child real reasons and opportunities to use Spanish.
- Make Spanish part of routines and real conversations—not just commands.
- Ask open-ended questions to encourage your child to share thoughts, feelings, and stories.
- Progress matters more than perfection.
Resources Mentioned in This Podcast
Free Live Confident Bilingual Parenting Masterclass
Continue Your Bilingual Parenting Journey
- Join the free Latina Moms Raising Bilingual Kids community for ongoing support, real-life tips, and resources from moms on the same journey.
- Explore free bilingual parenting resources at milegasi.com for printables, tips, and support.
- Register for Janny’s free Confident Bilingual Parenting Masterclass for practical strategies to help you feel more confident in your family’s bilingual journey.
Connect with Janny online:
Podcast: The Latina Mom Legacy
Website: milegasi.com
Instagram: @milegasi
Facebook Community: Latina Moms Raising Bilingual Kids
Interested in Sponsoring The Latina Mom Legacy?
Reach an engaged community of parents raising bilingual and bicultural children.
Final Thoughts
Your child understanding Spanish is not a failure—it’s a foundation. You don’t have to pressure your child into speaking; instead, create more opportunities for Spanish to become useful, meaningful, and part of your everyday connection. Keep going, amiga. Tú puedes.
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