If you get to a point where you can't express yourself, it's time to stop speaking solely German at home. But all of my doubts seem to get resolved. To be successful, parents must introduce their children to as many sources of German language and culture as they can find. Immersion in a totally German-speaking environment is the most effective way to build fluency, but few families can afford extensive European visits. Fortunately, other options exist.
Many families form bilingual play groups for their children.
It takes hard work, tireless patience, and a lot of creativity to make learning a second language fun for kids. Whether singing songs, translating favorite stories, or making up silly bilingual word games, parents are constantly teaching their children the importance and power of language. But those who are really determined usually have more success than they expected. Jill Metzler writes from Leawood, Kansas. The following is a list of products, services, and information resources for parents who are interested in exposing their children to German language and culture.