Passionate about language learning

My name Is Beth Manners and for many years my passion has been language learning — early language learning to be specific. Many years ago, I worked for a French company here in the States. The job required lots of travel and we dealt with companies from all over the world. I remember sitting in meetings in Europe and our hosts would speak French, German, Spanish as required — but if Americans were in attendance everything had to be in English because, back then,  most Americans only spoke English.

I thought it made us look quite inadequate and some people did not even make an effort to say hello in the native language – so we appeared arrogant too. I worked on my language skills and immediately noticed how well I was received. It broke down barriers. I always kept my sense of humor so it became so much fun — speaking and trying new phrases.

When I became a mom 19 years ago,  I started to read up on early language learning and decided my kids should get started as toddlers. The results were amazing:  they just picked up French with perfect accents and enjoyed the whole process. When they started Spanish in school, those skills transferred to the new language and they became excellent students.

I started creating products for early learners in both French and Spanish and it has become not only my passion and hobby but also my new career. So, I thought it would be helpful to other passionate parents to blog and share stories, tips and advice — not just on early language learning but also on the results .

My kids are now 14 and 19. Holly leaves tomorrow for Madrid  for a semester abroad and Spencer, who is just started high school today,  is doubling up and taking French and Spanish. I’ll share their adventures along with tips on keeping it fun from the toddler years and on. Hope you will share your stories and tips too!