BECOMING BILINGUAL: The Art of Speaking Spanish

What does it look like to raise bilingual kids while living in Mexico? In this episode, our guest is a speaker, business coach, author of the book The Flamingo Advantage: How to Leverage Unique, Stay Relevant and Change the World, the CEO of the National Christian Association of Professional Speakers and homeschooling mom Katie Hornor shares her family’s journey learning Spanish, navigating two cultures, and building a bilingual family life.
 
In this conversation, Katie also shares:
🇲🇽 How her family ended up in Mexico🗣️ What they did to learn Spanish🏡 How they kept both languages alive at home❤️ How they connected with the local culture✈️ Her advice for families who want to experience Mexico
🎧 Listen to Episode 36
 
Connect with Katie Hornor 
www.KatieHornor.com
www.NCAPspeakers.org 
 
Let’s Stay Connected!
Follow me for more homeschool Spanish tips, curriculum insights, and fun language-learning strategies! 🎉
📌 5-Day Parent Course to help you start teaching Spanish at home
Click here  https://spanish-educational-solutions.teachable.com/p/5-day-parent-course 
📌 Subscribe to our Newsletter Becoming Biligual 🔗https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/e645b671e0   
📌Get your 21 Day Spanish Practice Kit here 
🔗 https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/58dd92b1d1 
📌 Website: explorer my k-12 online Spanish  curriculum to help your children and teens learn Spanish 
https://spanisheducationalsolutions.com/ 
📌Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/  📌 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions  📌 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions I share behind the scene my bilingual homeschooling journey. 
 
👉 Do not forget to follow and Subscribe to the podcast 
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What does learning Spanish have to do with cooking and eating beans? More than you might think!
In this episode, I share a fun conversation with my Spanish teaching team about the different ways we eat frijoles across Latin America—and how it reminded me that there isn't just one way to learn Spanish.
In this episode:
How frijoles volteados, parados, colados, and aplastados inspired this episode
Why there isn't one “right” way to learn Spanish
Why getting started matters more than being perfect
How just 15 minutes of consistent practice can make a difference
Why learning Spanish is a long-term investment in your child
Ready to start your family's Spanish journey? Explore our free Spanish 1 and Elementary Spanish curriculum demos below.
 
Resources mentioned:
Click on these pages and scroll down to find the FREE DEMOS section.
 
👉 Spanish 1 Demo - Click here
👉 Elementary Curriculum DEMO click here
👉 Beans recipe click here
 
Let’s Stay Connected!
Follow me for more homeschool Spanish tips, curriculum insights, and fun language-learning strategies! 🎉
 
📌 Subscribe to our Newsletter Becoming Biligual and Sra. Morato’s personal notes 🔗https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/e645b671e0   
📌Get your 21 Spanish Practice Kit here 
🔗 https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/58dd92b1d1 
📌Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/  📌 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions  📌 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions I share behind the scene my bilingual homeschooling journey. 
 
📌 Website: 
https://spanisheducationalsolutions.com/ 
 
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Welcome back to Becoming Bilingual: The Art of Speaking Spanish! In Episode 34, I share exciting life updates, including our family's recent move, homeschool conference season, and the launch of a brand-new podcast season.
More importantly, we'll talk about one question every homeschool family should answer:
What's your Spanish plan for this school year?
You'll discover four essential components every successful language-learning plan needs:
Creating a consistent Spanish routine
Choosing the right curriculum or learning guide
Making Spanish practice part of everyday life
Bringing the language to life through Hispanic culture
Whether you're a homeschool parent, a Spanish teacher, or a student, this episode will encourage you to build a simple, sustainable plan that helps your family grow in confidence and become bilingual—without perfectionism.
If you're looking for homeschool Spanish curriculum, live online Spanish classes for middle and high school students, or practical tips for raising bilingual children, this episode is for you.
🎧 Tune in and start building your family's bilingual legacy today.
 
Resources mentioned:
👉 2026–2027 school year. If your teen is ready to join our Spanish learning tribe,  visit the link below, click on the LIVE Spanish 1, Spanish 2, or Spanish 3 course, and register today!
 We only have a few spots remaining, so don't wait to reserve your student's place.
https://homeschoolspanishcurriculum.com/high-school-spanish-courses/ 
Let’s Stay Connected!
Follow me for more homeschool Spanish tips, curriculum insights, and fun language-learning strategies! 🎉
📌 Websites: 
https://spanisheducationalsolutions.com/ 
📌 Subscribe to our Newsletter Becoming Biligual 🔗https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/e645b671e0   
📌Get your 21 Spanish Practice Kit here 
🔗 https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/58dd92b1d1 
📌Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/  📌 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions  📌 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions I share behind the scene my bilingual homeschooling journey. 
 
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Is Spanish just another high school requirement… or a life skill your teen will one day wish they had mastered?
In this episode, I’m joined by Malaika Wells — wife, mom, writer, and coach — as she shares her honest Spanish learning journey. From what first sparked her love for the language to the challenges that kept her from becoming fluent, she opens up about courage, consistency, and the regret of not going all in when she had the chance.
We talk about: • Why Spanish is more than just a subject • The mindset teens need when learning a second language • Why speaking — even imperfectly — changes everything • What parents can do differently to help it “stick” • How immersive experiences build confidence
If you’re a homeschool parent choosing a high school Spanish curriculum or wondering how to help your teen build real conversational Spanish skills, this conversation will give you clarity and encouragement.
Because Spanish isn’t just about credits. It’s about confidence, connection, and opportunity.
🎧 Press play and join the conversation.
 
Connect with Malaika Wells:
The Healthy Homeschool Marriage
The Hope Informed Marriage
The Hope Informed Marriage: New Hope for Old Hurts: Wells, Andrew D, Wells, Malaika Geuka: 9798316680603: Amazon.com: Books
Christian Marriage Coaching | Coupled in Christ
Home | Malaika on Mission
https://www.instagram.com/malaikaonmission/ 
 
Resources mentioned: 
Middle and High Spanish Courses with LIVE weekly Support for Homeschoolers 
Spanish 1 click here 
Spanish 2 click here
Spanish 3 click here
Parent Course
Click here 
 
Let’s Stay Connected!
Follow me for more homeschool Spanish tips, curriculum insights, and fun language-learning strategies! 🎉
📌 Subscribe to our Newsletter Becoming Biligual 🔗https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/e645b671e0   
📌Get your 21 Spanish Practice Kit here 
🔗 https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/58dd92b1d1 
📌 Website: 
https://spanisheducationalsolutions.com/ 
📌Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/  📌 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions  📌 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions I share behind the scene my bilingual homeschooling journey. 
👉 Subscribe & Leave a Review!Love this episode? Please take a moment to subscribe and leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review—it helps us reach more families!

Many teens start Spanish excited—then feel stuck, overwhelmed, or convinced they’re “not good at languages.” In this episode, we talk honestly about why that happens and how parents can help their teens move forward with confidence.
I’m joined by Sra. Priscila Salazar, an experienced 1:1 Spanish tutor, master teacher in our Spanish 1–3 programs, and my daughter’s Spanish 3 teacher—so we’ve seen her impact firsthand.
Together, we discuss:
Why Spanish feels harder after the beginner phase
The emotional side of language learning and self-doubt
When a curriculum is enough—and when extra support matters
How 1:1 help can rebuild confidence and progress
What prepares students for Spanish 3 and beyond
If your teen feels stuck in Spanish or you’re unsure of the next step, this conversation offers clarity, encouragement, and a practical path forward.
 
Connect with Sra. Priscila Salazar
Contact Sra. Priscila Salazar for 1:1 tutoring: 
https://www.priscilasalazar.com/tutoring-for-spanish-students
Learn more about her Spanish 4 course and join her waitlist click here 
Listen to episode 2 to know more about Sra. Priscila Salazar  click here
Spanish Resources: Do not forget! 
👉 FREE Valentines’s Spanish unit. Get it now!
https://homeschoolspanishcurriculum.com/spanish-valentines/ 
 
Let’s Stay Connected!
Follow me for more homeschool Spanish tips, curriculum insights, and fun language-learning strategies! 🎉
📌 Subscribe to our Newsletter Becoming Biligual 🔗https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/e645b671e0   
📌Get your 21 Spanish Practice Kit here 
🔗 https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/58dd92b1d1 
📌 Website: 
https://spanisheducationalsolutions.com/ 
📌Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/  📌 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions  📌 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions I share behind the scene my bilingual homeschooling journey. 
👉 Subscribe & Leave a Review!Love this episode? Please take a moment to subscribe and leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review—it helps us reach more families!

With AI translation tools and more advanced technology  on the rise, you may be wondering:
Do human-taught Spanish lessons still matter?
 
In this episode, I open up about a tough season—wrestling with doubt, facing online hate, and questioning whether my work as a Spanish teacher still matters. But recording a new Valentine’s lesson with my daughter reminded me of something powerful:
Language is about connection—not just translation.
Whether you’re a homeschool parent, Spanish teacher or Spanish student, this episode will encourage you to keep building a bilingual legacy, even in an AI-driven world.
 
🎁 Plus, I’m gifting you our Valentine’s Spanish Unit—free! Grab it in the show notes and help your kids learn about love and friendship in Spanish.
👉 FREE Valentines’s Spanish unit for your family. Get it now!
https://homeschoolspanishcurriculum.com/spanish-valentines/ 
 
Let’s Stay Connected!
Follow me for more homeschool Spanish tips, curriculum insights, and fun language-learning strategies! 🎉
📌 Subscribe to our Newsletter Becoming Biligual 🔗https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/e645b671e0   
📌Get your 21 Spanish Practice Kit here 
🔗 https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/58dd92b1d1 
📌 Website: 
https://spanisheducationalsolutions.com/ 
📌Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/  📌 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions  📌 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions I share behind the scene my bilingual homeschooling journey. 
👉 Subscribe & Leave a Review!Love this episode? Please take a moment to subscribe and leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review—it helps us reach more families!

What does it really take to raise bilingual children—especially when you’re homeschooling and want to build fluency with purpose, not pressure?
In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Joahanna Pérez Ray — a Chilean-born homeschool mom, professional translator, historical researcher, and the passionate voice behind Charlotte Mason en Español.
Together, we explore:
Johanna’s upbringing in Chile 🇨🇱
Her move to the U.S. and journey learning English as a second language
How she discovered Charlotte Mason education — and why it resonates so deeply with bilingual families
Practical strategies for teaching Spanish at home, even if you're not a native speaker
Advice for Hispanic parents preserving heritage and language
Why language learning and cultural awareness are essential in today’s world
Whether you're just beginning your bilingual homeschool journey or looking to deepen your family's connection to Spanish, this conversation will leave you encouraged and equipped.
🎧 Stick around until the end to hear about Joahanna’s latest research project, her growing library of bilingual resources, and how to connect with her impactful work.
Resources mentioned:
👉 Connect with Johanna Perez Ray 
 
👉 https://joperezray.com/ Translation, Bilingual Communications, Spanish
 
👉  https://charlottemasonespanol.org/ Bilingual education/Hispanic homeschooling in the US with the Charlotte Mason method
 
Let’s Stay Connected!
Follow me for more homeschool Spanish tips, curriculum insights, and fun language-learning strategies! 🎉
📌 Subscribe to our Newsletter Becoming Biligual 🔗https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/e645b671e0   
📌Get your 21 Spanish Practice Kit here 
🔗 https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/58dd92b1d1 
📌 Website: 
https://spanisheducationalsolutions.com/ 
📌Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/  📌 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions  📌 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions I share behind the scene my bilingual homeschooling journey. 
👉 Subscribe & Leave a Review!Love this episode? Please take a moment to subscribe and leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review—it helps us reach more families!

In this episode, I’m joined by bilingual educator and founder of EXPLORA Spanish Magazine, Daniela Perez, to explore how culture can be a powerful tool for helping children truly connect with the Spanish language and culture.
Daniela shares her story growing up in Chile, her journey to becoming fluent in English, and how her love for travel, language, and teaching inspired her to launch a one-of-a-kind Spanish print magazine for kids. We discuss the importance of cultural immersion in language learning, why parents shouldn’t wait to start Spanish at home, and how you can recreate classroom-style fluency-building activities right in your homeschool—even if you don’t speak Spanish yourself!
You’ll learn:
Why culture is essential to true language fluency
How EXPLORA makes Spanish learning fun and meaningful
Creative ways to bring Spanish into your homeschool routine
Daniela’s tips for helping your child love learning a second language
Whether you're just getting started with Spanish at home or looking for new ways to inspire your young learners, this episode is full of encouragement and practical ideas.
Resources mentioned:
👉 Connect with Daniela Perez  https://www.instagram.com/exploramag/ 
👉 Subscribe to Explora Magazine https://exploramag.com/ 
👉 Subscribe to Correo Feliz https://explora-magazine.myshopify.com/products/correo-feliz-2026-%F0%9F%93%AE 
 
Other Resources
 
👉 Elementary Curriculum 
https://homeschoolspanishcurriculum.com/elementary-spanish-curriculum/ 
 
👉 K-12 Family Membership Curriculum 
https://homeschoolspanishcurriculum.com/membership/  
 
Let’s Stay Connected!
Follow me for more homeschool Spanish tips, curriculum insights, and fun language-learning strategies! 🎉
📌 Subscribe to our Newsletter Becoming Biligual 🔗https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/e645b671e0   
📌Get your 21 Spanish Practice Kit here 
🔗 https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/58dd92b1d1 
📌Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/  📌 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions  📌 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions I share behind the scene my bilingual homeschooling journey. 
📌 Websites: 
https://spanisheducationalsolutions.com/ 
 
👉 Subscribe & Leave a Review!Love this episode? Please take a moment to subscribe and leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review—it helps us reach more families!

I had the pleasure of speaking with Blake Boles—founder of Unschool Adventures and author of College Without High School, Better Than College, The Art of Self-Directed Learning, and Why Are You Still Sending Your Kids to School?
Blake brings a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience in reimagining education—not just in theory, but in ways that make learning real, relevant, and transformative, especially for teens.
In this conversation, Blake shares stories from his global travels, dives into the philosophy of self-directed learning, and offers insight into how teens can build confidence—especially when it comes to speaking Spanish and learning independently. He also gives us a sneak peek at his upcoming teen program in Valencia, Spain (February 2026)!
 
Resources mentioned:
👉 Connect with Blake Boles
Valencia 2026 https://www.unschooladventures.com/trips/valencia-2026/
81 Adventure Challenges for Young people https://www.blakeboles.com/2023/11/81-adventure-challenges-for-young-people/ 
About Blake Boles https://www.blakeboles.com/ 
Books written by Blake:
Recommended Reading:
College Without High School
Better Than College
The Art of Self-Directed Learning
Why Are You Still Sending Your Kids to School?
Let’s Stay Connected!
Follow me for more homeschool Spanish tips, curriculum insights, and fun language-learning strategies! 🎉
📌 Subscribe to our Newsletter Becoming Biligual 🔗https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/e645b671e0   
📌 Get the FREE 21‑Day Spanish Practice Toolkit- Let’s walk this journey together. You’ve got this. https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/58dd92b1d1 
📌Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/  📌 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions  📌 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions I share behind the scene my bilingual homeschooling journey. 
📌 Websites: 
https://spanisheducationalsolutions.com/ 
👉 Subscribe & Leave a Review!Love this episode? Please take a moment to subscribe and leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review—it helps us reach more families!

After a tough month of sickness in our home, I’m back with a quick update and exciting news. We just released our very first Spanish Christmas Unit—perfect for breaking up your homeschool, co-op, or classroom routine during the holidays. It includes video lessons, worksheets, a parent-teacher guide, and a cultural bonus video featuring holiday traditions from Spanish-speaking countries. Right now, you can grab it for just $15 as part of our Black Friday special. I’m also launching a new Instagram Live series called “Breaking the Routine: Homeschooling Through the Holidays.” Follow me on Instagram @spanisheducationalsolutions to join the fun!
 
Resources mentioned:
👉 Christmas Unit 
https://homeschoolspanishcurriculum.com/spanish-christmas/ 
👉 Connect with me on Instagram for our holiday conversation: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/  
 
Let’s Stay Connected!
Follow me for more homeschool Spanish tips, curriculum insights, and fun language-learning strategies! 🎉
📌 Subscribe to our Newsletter Becoming Biligual 🔗https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/e645b671e0  
 📌 Get the FREE 21‑Day Spanish Practice Toolkit- Let’s walk this journey together.  https://spanish-educational-solutions.kit.com/58dd92b1d1 
📌Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/  📌 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions  📌 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions I share behind the scene my bilingual homeschooling journey. 
📌 Websites: 
https://spanisheducationalsolutions.com/ 
👉 Subscribe & Leave a Review!Love this episode? Please take a moment to subscribe and leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review—it helps us reach more families!