Spanish is the Language of My Family
What’s inside...
'Spanish is the Language of My Family' is a heartwarming children's book written by Michael Genhart that celebrates the diversity of language and culture within families. The story follows a young boy named Alex who shares his love for speaking Spanish with his family, despite his community primarily speaking English. Through Alex's experiences, the book highlights the importance of language and cultural identity in bringing people together, touching on themes of self-expression, belonging, and the value of learning multiple languages. The book encourages readers to embrace their own cultural heritage and appreciate the unique backgrounds of those around them. It is a joyful celebration of language, culture, and family, inspired by the generations of Latino people who were punished for speaking Spanish and the new generations revitalizing the language. The book includes essays on the history of Spanish suppression in U.S. schools and information about the Spanish alphabet.
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Michael
Abuela
Teacher
Discussion points
Why do you think understanding different languages is important in a family?
How do you feel when you hear or speak Spanish with our family or friends?
What are some ways we can celebrate our family’s heritage through language?
Can you think of a special memory that involves speaking Spanish?
How would you teach Spanish to someone who doesn't know the language?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use personal family stories or anecdotes that involve Spanish to make connections to the book’s themes. Encourage your child to express their thoughts in both Spanish and English, fostering confidence in bilingual communication. Make reading interactive by trying to guess and learn new Spanish words together, enriching vocabulary skills. Highlight the importance of heritage and cultural diversity, discussing how language plays a pivotal role in connecting with others.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Cultural Heritage
Explanation: The book showcases the significance of family heritage through the interactions and Spanish conversations within the protagonist's family.
Real-World Application: Children can appreciate and express pride in their own cultural backgrounds, fostering a deep connection with their family traditions.
Example Lesson: Language as a Bridge
Explanation: The story illustrates how language connects family members across generations, bonding them through shared communication.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the importance of communication skills in maintaining strong family ties and embracing bilingual abilities as a strength.
Example Lesson: Respect for Diversity
Explanation: Through the protagonist's interactions, the book highlights the respect for different cultures and languages within a community.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to respect and be curious about different cultures they encounter, promoting inclusivity and empathy in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Learning through Storytelling
Explanation: The narrative uses traditional Spanish tales told by family members to impart wisdom and life lessons.
Real-World Application: Emphasizes the role of storytelling in education, allowing children to use stories to understand complex life lessons in a relatable manner.