Welcome back to the Spanish for Children and Families podcast! In this exciting return episode, we dive into a topic that isn't often discussed but is crucial for many bilingual families: when the partner who doesn't speak Spanish feels excluded. As a Spanish language coach with over 21 years of experience, I share practical strategies and heartfelt advice to help you navigate these challenges and strengthen your family's bilingual journey.

Episode Highlights:

• Catch-Up: Why I paused the podcast and what’s coming next, including the launch of a new program and podcast for adults called Transforma.
• The Excluded Partner: The first major challenge discussed is when a partner who doesn’t speak Spanish feels left out during family conversations conducted in Spanish.
• OPOL Strategy: How the One Parent, One Language method can help balance language use and make your partner feel more included.
• Cultural Inclusion: Tips on involving your partner in cultural activities and traditions that might otherwise feel foreign to them.
• Joint Parenting in Bilingual Development: Encouraging your partner to be part of language goals and discussions, ensuring they’re an active participant in your child’s bilingual development.
• Building Confidence: Strategies for helping your partner gain confidence in engaging with your children in Spanish, including learning the language together and creating a supportive, judgment-free environment.
• Social Settings: Navigating social events where Spanish is the dominant language and how to make your partner feel more comfortable and included.

Resources Mentioned:

• Book Recommendation: El Ratoncito Pérez y the Tooth Fairy by Jane Cadwallader and Gustavo Mazali – A bilingual book that’s perfect for sharing with your children and teaching them about both Spanish and English traditions.

https://www.amazon.com/El-Ratoncito-Perez-Tooth-Fairy/dp/0545162270

• Upcoming Episodes: Stay tuned for a special episode where I’ll read El Ratoncito Pérez y the Tooth Fairy, complete with different voices for each character!

Communication is key in any relationship, especially when raising bilingual children. By addressing these challenges openly and finding strategies that work for your family, you can ensure that both parents feel valued and involved in this beautiful journey.

Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast and leave a review! Your feedback helps shape future episodes, and I’m always listening to your suggestions.

¡Hasta la próxima, familias! Keep planting those seeds and fostering bilingual magic in your home.