How I Became Fluent in Spanish...FAST (self taught)

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  • Опубліковано 16 лис 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 2,7 тис.

  • @kiarathomas1345
    @kiarathomas1345  Рік тому +438

    My ebook "The Ultimate Guide to Spanish Fluency" available NOW!
    kiarastienda.creator-spring.com/
    Thanks for all the love and support you guys!! If you really enjoyed this video, check out my other related video "my first video in SPANISH...(mi primer video en ESPAÑOL)! Link in description!

    • @epicjuk9658
      @epicjuk9658 Рік тому +2

      Amazing

    • @PURO_G
      @PURO_G Рік тому +1

      Puedes hacer un video de como te volviste tan guapa?

    • @TroyTisserand
      @TroyTisserand Рік тому +2

      Gracias Kiara

    • @ehmt-19
      @ehmt-19 Рік тому +1

      Don't sweat it! Totally our upbringing. I'm the youngest of 7 and one can see the degradation of fluency from oldest to youngest. As the youngest, I would say I'm the most articulate in English.
      That said, I need to learn it too!! 😁

    • @saulorosco1493
      @saulorosco1493 Рік тому

      I wuv u 🤗

  • @_laquiry_
    @_laquiry_ Рік тому +3623

    -Duolingo app
    -music
    -reading
    -Lingoda Online school
    -Environment
    -Change phone settings to language
    -Routine
    -practice, use it or lose it
    -Take breaks
    -Give urself time
    -Vocabulary grows over time
    -Patient
    -Be consistent

    • @yooitsurfavL
      @yooitsurfavL Рік тому +37

      Thanks for some tips :)

    • @BookZealots
      @BookZealots Рік тому +46

      @_laquiry_ Thank you for posting the list of recommendations, because of the music in the video I was not able to watch the whole thing.

    • @julie30147
      @julie30147 Рік тому +41

      changing the phone settings is so smart ty

    • @tingtaiji
      @tingtaiji Рік тому +16

      Not all heroes wear capes

    • @davidterrell1242
      @davidterrell1242 Рік тому +20

      Yea changing the phone settings to spanish is a really good tip!

  • @tonybridge42
    @tonybridge42 Рік тому +4867

    I am Hispanic and I am embarrassed to say that I am not fluent in Español. I’m not giving up. You are amazing and I appreciate your advise and help.

    • @dutchessdreamer4543
      @dutchessdreamer4543 Рік тому +85

      I believe in you!

    • @yneapatton7032
      @yneapatton7032 Рік тому +278

      Same. I’m not fluent either. My mother is Mexican/Guatemalan & Dad is Caucasian. Growing up DIDNT learn it @ all.

    • @elipav484
      @elipav484 Рік тому

      @@dutchessdreamer4543 hes a old man, if he hasn't done it now its over. you need to save your believing for something more valid and worthy

    • @elipav484
      @elipav484 Рік тому

      @@yneapatton7032 your dad did you a favor.

    • @yneapatton7032
      @yneapatton7032 Рік тому +25

      @@elipav484 Lmao. Absolutely not. It wasn’t just him. It was my mother as well.

  • @Kenkoopa44
    @Kenkoopa44 Рік тому +3908

    Thank you for the tips! My wife is from Colombia and I started learning through intense self study probably 2 years ago. What I have found is that learning a language to the level of "fluency" comes down to IMMERSION. You can do this by living abroad or by finding ways to surround yourself with the language 24/7 for at least 3-6 months. All the school classes and language apps in the world will never get you there until you really begin to use the language daily. The language learning industry feels like the fitness industry to me in that everyone is selling a shortcut but the ONLY real way to lose weight is through diet and exercise.

    • @kiarathomas1345
      @kiarathomas1345  Рік тому +314

      I agree! You have to make a conscious effort to submerse yourself daily!

    • @pablog765able
      @pablog765able Рік тому +73

      You said the true, I has been learning English by 3 years myself until I can understand when native speaker talking, I need to practice how to say, have a happy new year 2023

    • @TheSmittyray78
      @TheSmittyray78 Рік тому +118

      Everyone getting a wife from Colombia.

    • @Kenkoopa44
      @Kenkoopa44 Рік тому +26

      @@TheSmittyray78 😂😉

    • @samanthakirk3793
      @samanthakirk3793 Рік тому +56

      How can you immerse in it when you don’t have the ability to be around Spanish speakers 😞

  • @josephbritton
    @josephbritton Рік тому +988

    Just because you had help, doesn’t mean you’re not self taught.
    You did that. 🌕🌞

    • @manaakitiarankin8128
      @manaakitiarankin8128 Рік тому +29

      Yes it does, no one is self taught, we all need help to learn new skills why not give credit to those who helped us along the way? Doesn’t take away from our own hard work.

    • @saery4523
      @saery4523 9 місяців тому

      @@manaakitiarankin8128that’s not true, some people have classes, teachers, family, and better opportunities to learn a new language while others have to make that up for themselves, making their own environment, opportunities, etc. to learn.

    • @randompost4180
      @randompost4180 6 місяців тому

      @@manaakitiarankin8128Actually you can be self taught. Especially when it comes to languages. You can give credit to books and apps but it’s not as complicated to learn on your own as people make it seem. I’m about to start learning Turkish and Portuguese in my own when I get fluent that’s when I’ll take advice from natives in the language and having conversations.

    • @pureone8350
      @pureone8350 6 місяців тому

      ​@@manaakitiarankin8128Being self taught is about not taking any classes at all and learning a skill on your initiative

    • @JeromeProductions
      @JeromeProductions 5 місяців тому

      @@manaakitiarankin8128it’s about the ratio of help

  • @HeidiButler-r3z
    @HeidiButler-r3z 7 місяців тому +70

    I am Mexican and after living here in the states for many years I can say that I speak English It took me so long but I am so happy now being bilingual ! So don’t give up, we got this

    • @africanchild4525
      @africanchild4525 23 дні тому

      Congratulations for that. I can speak four languages and Spanish is my 5th language I’m still new and I’m so excited studying every day for 30 minutes reading the notes I wrote and repeat a lot. I’m only struggling with pronunciation but I hope one day I’ll master it.

  • @NBAJuda
    @NBAJuda Рік тому +287

    Talking AND responding to yourself seems like a really great way to learn

  • @doctordef324
    @doctordef324 Рік тому +2435

    When foreigners say they learn English from movies and tv. Believe it!!! I learned Spanish in like 2 years. Read and write it too!! I got a book, learned the pronunciations, learned sentences, learned damn near every word in the dictionary in Spanish, and my favorite, watched movies with subtitles in Spanish!!!! THAT took me to a new level because I could see HOW it was spoken!!! Then I just practiced on people.... then WALAH!!! Yo habla espanol muy facil...!! Es nada!!

    • @jpatt85
      @jpatt85 Рік тому +33

      You watched English movies with Spanish subtitles or vice versa? Or both?

    • @doctordef324
      @doctordef324 Рік тому +205

      @@jpatt85 movies in English with Spanish subtitles to actually SEE how the words are spoken in sentences... Get an English/Spanish dictionary, learn damn near every word! Start out watching your favorite movies that you know every word to, it helps. I used to actively seek out movies on DVD with Spanish subtitles featured, all don't have subtitles.😏.. After you learn words, phrases and sentences, start listening to those movies in Spanish audio WITH ENGLISH subtitles!!! Then you basically have it down by then... Practice on Spanish speaking people when you can... Make sure you have the pronunciation right first tho.. the dictionary has the correct pronunciations from an English speaking standpoint or get a book like SPANISH LANGUAGE FOR DUMMIES... it's more like basic every day words and phrases... This was my way of learning and it worked... you'll be able to carry a conversation but it'll still be hard to catch what someone is saying, you have to listen very well. Oh and always try to lead off conversations, that why you know what the topic is and you can choose the right words.. vs Somebody yapping away and you are just lost...😳! Just like English, some people speak fast and you might not understand every word , your ear just catches keywords and respond off that.... It's easy and remember, all you need to know is the basics. Basic words, basic phrases, basic sentences!!!!

    • @jpatt85
      @jpatt85 Рік тому +14

      @Doctor Def Thanks, I'll try some of these things.

    • @doctordef324
      @doctordef324 Рік тому +27

      @@jpatt85 you'll see what works best for you! Good luck.. Remember, get that dictionary, they sell them in pocket sized too.. learn as my Spanish to English words as possible..

    • @randolphotoniel
      @randolphotoniel Рік тому +24

      Hello everyone, my mother tongue is Spanish so if you are looking for someone to practice your Spanish with I am here😊 I think it will be a good idea if we could share our knowledge!

  •  Рік тому +1940

    I am Mexican and after living here in the states for many years I can say that I speak English 😅 It took me so long but I am so happy now being bilingual 😊! So don’t give up, we got this ❤

    • @dutchessdreamer4543
      @dutchessdreamer4543 Рік тому +20

      Yes we do! Good for you.

    • @mario_sw20
      @mario_sw20 Рік тому +54

      sucks cuz spanish was my first language but yk america is really good at colonizing so i lost it and it pisses me off cuz all my family can speak it n have trouble understanding

    • @MachinneToniSUR
      @MachinneToniSUR Рік тому

      ​@@mario_sw20no sabo

    • @mario_sw20
      @mario_sw20 Рік тому +3

      @@MachinneToniSUR yup gotta problem wit it?

    • @GeminiJo
      @GeminiJo Рік тому +6

      Yayyy! Me and my mom are from Panama and when we arrived here when I was 5 in 1995 my mom didn't know a word of English. I remember going with her to her English class at a local high school watching her learn English. She's fluent now. Good memories.

  • @bg1855
    @bg1855 Рік тому +405

    As a no sabo kid I really appreciate and admire the time you took to be fluent. I’m definitely going to push myself to reclaim my Spanish.

    • @TorTheWeirdo
      @TorTheWeirdo Рік тому +41

      Si todavía a tienes tus abuelos, ponerse una meta para hablar con ellos en español. Estoy cierto que les gustaría hablar contigo en su lengua materna. Esta podría ser tu motivación. O si no tienes tus abuelos creo que cualquier pariente mayor disfrutaría esto.
      Un gran parte de la cultura latina está ligada al idioma. Como hispano/latino, hablar español es tu derecho de nacimiento. Conquistarlo como si siempre hubiera sido tuyo! Creo en ti. Puedes hacerlo!

    • @CeliaBordeaux
      @CeliaBordeaux 3 місяці тому

      Luv ur little doggy barking in agreement with you. 😊 yes, your video is a great help! I use Duolingo and love it.

  • @Olivia-dd4bn
    @Olivia-dd4bn Рік тому +38

    listening to spanish music while reading and memorizing the lyrics and translations has taught me more in one year than I learned in 4 years of high school spanish class

    • @zeynep616
      @zeynep616 Рік тому +5

      I think that's the best way! Do you have any song recommendations for a beginner?

  • @kevincaples8516
    @kevincaples8516 Рік тому +1568

    As a fluent non-native speaker of Spanish, this is the best advice on learning a language that I have seen yet. Just for context, I'm an American, in a relationship with a Spanish speaker from Venezuela, we speak only in Spanish (very comfortably). I've been speaking Spanish since 13 or 14 yo (to different proficiencies) and now am 36. The most important things she said is to speak EVERYDAY if only to yourself OUT LOUD and to find a (fluent) native speaker to speak to every day if you can for at least 20 min/day. One thing she didn't say that I will add is to pick one country to learn that version of the language if possible. It will help with fluency and comprehension. Other important things are listening to music and other interests in the language. As you can see, immersion is the key.

    • @ispeakmucho
      @ispeakmucho Рік тому +26

      As a fellow non native fluent speaker, I agree with that last point. Choosing one place sped me up so much. I then went and lived there and stayed 3 years and got to really level it all up.
      Cheers to you.
      My fam is Trini (neighbors to Venis!)

    • @extraterestrial
      @extraterestrial Рік тому +24

      That's so true about picking Spanish from one place to learn, because Spanish is so different between each Spanish speaking country. They all speak the same basic language, but certain things have different meanings depending on the country

    • @randolphotoniel
      @randolphotoniel Рік тому +18

      Hello everyone, my mother tongue is Spanish so if you are looking for someone to practice your Spanish with I am here😊 I think it will be a good idea if we could share our knowledge!

    • @laiphillips2
      @laiphillips2 Рік тому +5

      Hi, my daughter and I just enrolled in a college class. We need help do u have a contact?

    • @heartandmindovercome3214
      @heartandmindovercome3214 Рік тому +2

      Awesome advice, thanks bro 👍 🙏

  • @cordova2593
    @cordova2593 Рік тому +65

    I had a 10/10 girl on me bro, but she was Hispanic and literally told me while we was hanging out that I was cute but she wanted someone who was into her culture and spoke spanish. I was devastated bro shit was tragic but now I’m here not necessarily because of her but because it seems you would build greater bonds with people in that culture which seems cool

    • @MarkAnthony-eu6he
      @MarkAnthony-eu6he Місяць тому +1

      @cordova2593 I feel your pain bro, I’ve had the same experience and I love me some Latinas…

    • @chadwells7562
      @chadwells7562 14 днів тому +2

      Should’ve told her that she could teach you and you’d talk Spanish to her every day

  • @TheJesusNerd40
    @TheJesusNerd40 Рік тому +90

    I can confirm the duolingo help. It has helped me immensely. I have also realized that reading children's book in the target language you want to learn is very helpful and gradually move up in reading level as you learn more and grow in fluency.

  • @courtneyde
    @courtneyde 10 місяців тому +82

    I have made it one of my lifetime goals to speak Spanish because being diverse can definitely take you far, along with getting to know people from a different culture/perspective is inspiring; building relationships/friendships; and increase in pay at jobs; etc. Kudos for you 🤗.
    I have a biracial son, so now I’m interested in learning myself so he can learn and speak both languages (Spanish/English). His grandmother speaks to him in Spanish and I encourage her to do so now.

  • @alexisdelhaugd1173
    @alexisdelhaugd1173 Рік тому +33

    As a native Spanish speaker ! Let me tell you! Your Spanish is Great! God bless u!

  • @taylormsolis
    @taylormsolis Рік тому +1306

    This year I finally want to teach myself Spanish and this video truly motivates me! It’s hard being Mexican but not a Spanish speaker and always getting made fun of because of it :\ so I want to actually learn it!

    • @amandaayala7259
      @amandaayala7259 Рік тому +34

      Sameee we should learn the same time 🥺

    • @fallenxangel105
      @fallenxangel105 Рік тому +33

      You must be Mexican-American not Mexican then lol

    • @janestudies
      @janestudies Рік тому +10

      Yooo I’m in the same boat. Good luck! I’m studying hard to fix my bad habits and broaden my vocabulary. We got this!

    • @kristinahernandez564
      @kristinahernandez564 Рік тому +51

      I can relate! People assume I already know Spanish, it makes it so much more intimidating to try and speak any at all. I feel the judgment and shame when they realize I can not. When I go on vacation to Mexico everyone (even other tourists) approach me in Spanish so I have to make sure I bring my tall gringo amigo so I can push him in front of us… they always approach him in English! 😂. Funny because my complexion is super light, but they still know I should know!

    • @ferniebernie1603
      @ferniebernie1603 Рік тому +20

      Yess !!! I used to be able to speak Spanish fluently but once my grandmother on my Spanish side passed I didn’t have a reason to speak it anymore and became whitewashed

  • @calmdown2876
    @calmdown2876 Рік тому +416

    While in high school and college I chose Spanish as my second language. Being in America in a non-Spanish speaking neighborhood I lost a lot of what I learned. I am trying to regain what I lost. You are offering some solid advice 👌

  • @robertbustos2371
    @robertbustos2371 Рік тому +384

    I'm first generation Mexican-American, and I'm fortunate that my parents spoke Spanish to me as a child and refused to put me in bilingual classes as a kid. My dad would regularly have me read the Spanish newspaper. Now my Spanish is at near-native level, although I'm still improving. Watching Spanish novelas with English subtitles is a great way to supercharge your learning.

    • @bgonza2
      @bgonza2 Рік тому

      You are either Mexican loyal to God, to Mexico, and to Mexicans. OR you are American loyal to them. Unless one of your parents is a European American (a Caucasian) then you can be a Mexican-American. There is no such thing as a "chicano." Remember the entire history between Mexico and the United States. Vamos a recuperar todos esos territorios robados por los gringos.

    • @robertbustos2371
      @robertbustos2371 Рік тому

      @@bgonza2 I hate the term Chicano.

    • @bgonza2
      @bgonza2 Рік тому

      @@robertbustos2371 You should also also hate the term Mexican-American.

    • @dealwolfstriked272
      @dealwolfstriked272 Рік тому +9

      My parents,Cuban and Puerto Rican never spoke Spanish with us kids.When asked why my pops would say...I moved to America from Cuba to be an American and I want my kids to be American.Very different experience....which is better?

    • @linq7584
      @linq7584 Рік тому +14

      Knowing more than one language is definitely better. My Dad was a proud Mexican and never spoke to me in english even though he was fluent in english. I grew up speaking broken spanish, but I was able to move to Panama, Puerto Rico and Colombia and i became fluent because of it. Imagine listening to more hit songs, more great movies, more beautiful women. Oh yeah knowing spanish is awesome!

  • @84733
    @84733 Рік тому +82

    I'm currently learning Spanish, and it's great that you are sharing this. Here in Asia, bilingual is the bare minimum. You have to be fluent from 3 languages and above to be considered good.

    • @EricaMCross
      @EricaMCross 5 місяців тому +3

      😮😮😮😮, sheesh 😥

  • @butlerbertram2169
    @butlerbertram2169 Рік тому +43

    From a non-native Spanish speaker, I started learning at 14 and I became fluent at 15! The only way I could possibly do this, is by surrounding myself by Spanish speakers and Spanish culture. Translate english things to Spanish in your head!! Use duolingo because it works, but try to surround yourself with Spanish music, podcasts, books and etc. Make Spanish your every day life. And PLEASE when learning Spanish, get Spanish friends to HELP. YOU. my friends talked to me in only Spanish until I understood and you'd think it's cruel, but it made me pick up words and meanings so much quicker. Listen to what they're saying so it becomes familiar. I learned dominican Spanish and Puerto Rican Spanish! Learn neutral Spanish first. You can use it with anyone! Once you do that, maybe start learning a certain dialects accent! Get used to the speed of how they talk because they all speak differently. Putting your phone in Spanish really helps even though you don't know what it's saying. Translate English to Spanish as much as you can and talk to yourself if you have to. Don't expect to be very very very fluent in a few months because it's very hard. Have patience! Understanding is so much easier than speaking so don't expect to sound like a native speaker in a few months because you move your mouth much different than you do in English. Good luck on your Spanish journey!!!

    • @Mangoesy
      @Mangoesy Рік тому

      ​@DatingMatis156 This is basically how I learned to speak English so I don't doubt this guy at all. When just surrounding yourself with things like putting your game in English and watching movies in English with my native subtitles, watching a lot of youtube and just trying to think in English is how it worked for me. So it seems pretty doable to do that with Spanish aswell like Bertram said.

    • @Mangoesy
      @Mangoesy Рік тому

      @DatingMatis156 You got a fair point. Might be doable with a lot of dedication but as you said fluencys definition varies per person. But thanks for explaining what u ment ☺️

  • @brandonwilliams9151
    @brandonwilliams9151 Рік тому +234

    Much respect to the young person, she presents herself as an intellect with dignity, grace, and mature nature. Bless whoever is raising her for doing something positive and being reserved and grounded.

    • @thetoughgroup
      @thetoughgroup Рік тому +9

      Agreed she's lovely 💯

    • @royestrada777
      @royestrada777 Рік тому +7

      As I was seeing this video I was thinking to myself kudos to this young lady's parents! They did a fantastic job!

    • @Abstract.Noir414
      @Abstract.Noir414 11 місяців тому +12

      Comments like this is beyond strange

    • @MaruchanGuy
      @MaruchanGuy 11 місяців тому +3

      @@Abstract.Noir414very true

    • @Untameduniverse00
      @Untameduniverse00 10 місяців тому

      You only said this because she’s black. You wouldn’t have said all of this if she was white now would you???

  • @twinjj
    @twinjj Рік тому +230

    I love seeing other people that learned Spanish fluently on their own 🙌🏾 there’s more ppl like me out there ♥️

    • @randolphotoniel
      @randolphotoniel Рік тому +8

      Hello everyone, my mother tongue is Spanish so if you are looking for someone to practice your Spanish with I am here😊 I think it will be a good idea if we could share our knowledge!

    • @ispeakmucho
      @ispeakmucho Рік тому +3

      We out here fam. I have a few videos in Spanish on my channel, some from over a decade ago!
      I'm glad you out here representing too. 💪🏾💪🏾

    • @katysam123
      @katysam123 Рік тому

      ESPERO APRENDAS EL ESPAÑOL ES MI IDIOMA MATERNA ,SALUDOS DE PERU

  • @LifeofAlessia
    @LifeofAlessia Рік тому +308

    2 things...
    1. you are gorgeous!
    2. This is amazing advice. I'm in college taking spanish courses and even made it my minor, but lately I have kind of lost the passion and breezed through the last semester. This has inspired me to take charge of my own learning and start from the beginning to learn again. thank you!

    • @randolphotoniel
      @randolphotoniel Рік тому +4

      Hello everyone, my mother tongue is Spanish so if you are looking for someone to practice your Spanish with I am here😊 I think it will be a good idea if we could share our knowledge!

    • @Thankuforsubing
      @Thankuforsubing Рік тому +2

      No she's not she's black

    • @seattleboyz5208
      @seattleboyz5208 Рік тому

      She’s a person not a crayon!!​@@Thankuforsubing

    • @sagittariusbeauty
      @sagittariusbeauty Рік тому

      @@Thankuforsubing jealous irrelevant random

    • @Thankuforsubing
      @Thankuforsubing Рік тому

      @@sagittariusbeauty A black ugly duck trying to address me? Know your place before I insult you you low life nobody.

  • @alightnthedarkness
    @alightnthedarkness Рік тому +191

    Sister, this was so inspiring! I'm taking one on one lessons to learn Spanish right now. I can not WAIT to be able to say I speak Spanish fluently. I am determined. Thank you so much for your advice. This helps me so much. Much love!!

    • @kiarathomas1345
      @kiarathomas1345  Рік тому +11

      I'm glad I could help!

    • @kinglil546
      @kinglil546 Рік тому

      how far along have you come in that time?

    • @Maurice-fd1bf
      @Maurice-fd1bf 11 місяців тому +3

      Yeah 5 months have gone by how’s the progress going?

    • @alightnthedarkness
      @alightnthedarkness 11 місяців тому +2

      @@Maurice-fd1bf it’s going really well! I am getting a lot better with speaking. I’m currently learning negation! I also learned that I can speak better than I can understand. When people are speaking Spanish to me they have to speak almost one word at a time so I can fully translate what they are saying. Taking it one day at a time!

    • @alightnthedarkness
      @alightnthedarkness 11 місяців тому

      @@kinglil546 a lot better with speaking! I can understand when people are speaking Spanish to me but I am still a bit slow to translate what they are saying. If they speak too fast I cannot fully understand.

  • @zm681
    @zm681 Рік тому +14

    I'm Mexican, and your Spanish is legit! And you're incredibly intelligent and beautiful. Definite respect to you.

  • @Vita-eq3oj
    @Vita-eq3oj Рік тому +304

    Hi, native spanish speaker here 🙋🏻‍♀️. Let me tell you that your pronunciation it’s on point, it amazes me. I’m actually on the other side, I’m trying to become fluent in english. I’ve been learning it my whole life but I never gave me the chance of practicing with a native speaker until recently that I applied for a remote job and had a job interview…was pretty awkward 😅 but I’m proud that I took the chance to experience something new and now that is my main motivation to keep improving. Thanks for all your recommendations!

    • @alishamittal3731
      @alishamittal3731 Рік тому +1

      Could you please translate this for me? What is Cadenas saying? ua-cam.com/video/VuyiF3swMYE/v-deo.html
      Thank you so much

    • @Vita-eq3oj
      @Vita-eq3oj Рік тому +11

      @@alishamittal3731 Hi! I’m sorry but I’m afraid I can’t help you because the video is in Catalan (a romance language spoken in eastern and northeastern Spain and in the Balearic Islands). I can understand some words but not the full sentences, it’s really different from Spanish. Best of luck!

    • @alishamittal3731
      @alishamittal3731 Рік тому +3

      @@Vita-eq3oj Got it, thank you!

    • @tekesters
      @tekesters Рік тому +1

      @@protostarlux i need practice too 😅

    • @MrMusic49
      @MrMusic49 Рік тому +3

      your english is good

  • @thescepterofjudah12
    @thescepterofjudah12 Рік тому +91

    I’ve been doing Duolingo since August of 2022. I can somewhat speak Spanish, but I can actually read it better than I can speak it. I have no one to do flash cards with, so Duolingo and interacting with customers on my part time job. On my full time job, I have Spanish students I have to interact with, and so that was how I was able to read a little in Spanish. Thank you for the tips and advice on trying to master Spanish. There’s plenty I can implement in my daily routine to be able to eventually speak Spanish.

    • @laiyalaiya6088
      @laiyalaiya6088 Рік тому +1

      If nothing else try to only speak to Spanish speaking students only ! Even if you don’t know what you’re saying. That was the best way for me to learn and it was an older Mexican lady at my job I worked with everyday !

    • @LoganPennell123
      @LoganPennell123 Рік тому

      Awesome to hear!! How much did you practice on duolingo a day to become proficient that fast? I've been doing duolingo for about 3 months now it's cool to hear that it does work if you keep going! I also write down lots of words and phrases after lessons and during.

    • @Hvshi-tomi
      @Hvshi-tomi Рік тому +1

      I’ve been using Duolingo for two months. Learning slowly but I’m learning. I watch tv shows in Spanish with Spanish subtitles. Sometimes I switch it around. I also watch UA-cam videos. And listen to Spanish music. It’s all helping. I’m a complete beginner. But I had to start somewhere.
      Happy learning 😊

    • @Sickgurl7
      @Sickgurl7 Рік тому +1

      Yeah I can read Spanish a lot better than I can write speak or hear 😭 especially since Spanish speaks so fast

    • @Intellectualchaos
      @Intellectualchaos Рік тому

      For me it’s hard because I’m half Puerto Rican and my Puerto Rican side speaks slang so as I’m learning it’s hard to communicate as proper way of speaking is different which makes me embarrassed ( both my parents died so I lost connection until recently ) any tips? I can listen to comprehend well but speaking and engaging in long conversations is hard for me

  • @KM-bu1js
    @KM-bu1js Рік тому +201

    I’m pretty fluent in Spanish, duo lingo helped tremendously. Also listening to espn deportes daily and trying to imitate them while they’re speaking. I’m also learning a few other languages

    • @randolphotoniel
      @randolphotoniel Рік тому +17

      Hello everyone, my mother tongue is Spanish so if you are looking for someone to practice your Spanish with I am here😊 I think it will be a good idea if we could share our knowledge!

    • @jenniferrsn
      @jenniferrsn Рік тому +1

      @@randolphotoniel I want to be better in Spanish 😭😂

    • @brisetguizamanzano9675
      @brisetguizamanzano9675 Рік тому +2

      @@jenniferrsn we could practice. I native Spanish and want to practice English

    • @thevanessakay
      @thevanessakay Рік тому +1

      @@brisetguizamanzano9675count me in!

    • @nooneknows9234
      @nooneknows9234 Рік тому +3

      @@jenniferrsn spanish is extremely hard don't let people who learned intermediate level tell you they fluent because they not

  • @ArtistMgmtATL
    @ArtistMgmtATL 11 місяців тому +11

    Thank you. 50 years old and I just complete Spanish 1101 in college!! I'm on to Spanish 1102 in January 2024. I appreciate this video + tandem app.

  • @Tomangel61
    @Tomangel61 11 місяців тому +8

    Muy bien Senora! Blessings sent from Hastings NY. I'm 62 and still plugging along learning Spanish, this is something I hadn't thought of, great idea!

  • @steveo1919
    @steveo1919 Рік тому +513

    Great tips. I will say to all the people who are looking to learn Spanish on their own - just as I did: I would say my number one piece of advice would be to NOT try reciting words or phrases until you have absolutely mastered the pronunciation of the alphabet. I repeat DO NOT try to skip the pronunciation of the alphabet. If you do attempt to start learning Spanish before this important step, you will struggle the entire time - and will have accomplished absolutely NOTHING at the end of that time. Whether one year or ten years. I promise you. The pronunciation of the Spanish alphabet is ESSENTIAL to successfully becoming bilingual and Spanish literate. 😘
    Que tenga un buen día!

    • @whitleywhitley2280
      @whitleywhitley2280 Рік тому +5

      thank you

    • @plato2929
      @plato2929 Рік тому +15

      this helped me so much! i don’t know how people do pronunciation without knowing the alphabet

    • @steveo1919
      @steveo1919 Рік тому +25

      @@plato2929 IKR?! It's virtually impossible to learn any other language without first knowing the alphabet.

    • @Jus_Saiyan
      @Jus_Saiyan Рік тому +7

      no problemo, I've known the Spanish alphabet by heart since elementary school, that and how to count and the months and days of the year. Still can't speak the language tho lol... but trying

    • @plato2929
      @plato2929 Рік тому +13

      @@steveo1919 frrr like when we learn our first language the first thing we learn is the alphabet so it makes sense to do it for other languages. my spanish teacher thought me that in 7th grade and then i found out there’s people that try to learn spanish w out knowing the alphabet and i was like howw

  • @ResetKeisha
    @ResetKeisha Рік тому +46

    I love how you mentioned vocabulary from 5 to now. Kids take 1-2 years before they even start speaking well enough to understand. Won’t beat myself up. I picked up faster being in Mexico and around my moms side of the family. Definitely want to move or spend the summer somewhere to be immersed with the kids.

  • @aftoncrain2042
    @aftoncrain2042 4 місяці тому +8

    I started using duolingo at 11 and I'm 19 now. I have finished both the spanish and Italian course and while I don't consider myself fluent, it has helped me so much. I'm able to read and write fluently and now I'm working on speaking in my classes at my university. I'm really hoping I'll be able to improve my conversational skills, since so many people in the U.S. are hispanohablantes!

  • @Rafael-ru2so
    @Rafael-ru2so 11 місяців тому +8

    Thanks for your video! It was great to hear your story. I am Mexican-American and a lifelong Spanish speaker, but I am still on my lifelong journey of perfecting my Spanish. Si se puede!

  • @celine_7710
    @celine_7710 Рік тому +9

    I can't wait to be fluent in Spanish, I'm Brazilian and I want to visit Mexico already knowing how to speak Spanish.

  • @USMCCGAGNG
    @USMCCGAGNG Рік тому +116

    Kiara,
    I'm trying to learn Spanish, still. I'm almost 60 now. I began by taking Spanish 101 in COLLEGE. When you live in Montana it's hard to find people to practice with so I let it go.
    I recently returned from living in Ecuador for four years. I am now about 1/3 the way to where I want to be. I tried Duolingo but it's too simple yet not good enough to help me. I won't quit.
    COLLEGE.... Go. You will never regret it. Even when you're having to repay the loans. Be careful with them. You are smart enough and positive enough to work and study! Take a break now but GO!
    Like I said I'm almost 60. I am the only one in my immediate family to go. Not even my friends in Montana went. I can SEE the difference in my openness to learning more and as you get older that is important. My immediate family all have closed minds and I'm the only one that will take in all info, process it, use my critical thinking skills I learned IN COLLEGE to decide on ... life!
    No matter the cost, YOU deserve it. Love.

    • @nemachloes
      @nemachloes Рік тому +4

      Hello, I am a 14 years old person and I've been thinking of learning a new language as my third language. I would like to ask if trying to learn the language 'spanish' as my third language is a long process. I have mentioned my age before because I think that age of one's plays a big role in trying to learn a language with ease. How many years would it take me in order to learn spanish? I am thinking of making 30 minutes of daily practice by the way.

    • @rebekahblesi7526
      @rebekahblesi7526 Рік тому +3

      @@nemachloes Since you already know English, Spanish would be an easier language for you (especially if it is your native language). There’s no way of knowing how many years it will take you, but you can make really good progress in a year or two.
      With any language, remember to study the more useful words first and make the learning fun however you can!

    • @randolphotoniel
      @randolphotoniel Рік тому +1

      Hello everyone, my mother tongue is Spanish so if you are looking for someone to practice your Spanish with I am here😊 I think it will be a good idea if we could share our knowledge!

    • @nonenone2669
      @nonenone2669 Рік тому +2

      Bro, you don't need to go to a place where spanish is spoken. We have the internet and you can pay people to speak with you or find someone who will do it for free.
      Also, just speak to yourself! all this rambling thoughts you have in English, turn them into spanish as much as you can.

    • @nemachloes
      @nemachloes Рік тому

      @@randolphotoniel Hey, Where can I talk with you so that we can both practise our aimed language?

  • @mr.squirrel58
    @mr.squirrel58 11 місяців тому +6

    You have inspired me to continue my learning Spanish, Duo was my saviour. I decided one day to learn Spanish after our veterans group was delivering toys to an American family with girls. I was dressed as Santa and i walked across the parking lot only to have a small Latino boy come hug me speaking Spanish. None of the other vets knew Spanish and I so desperately wanted to speak with the little boy and ask what he wanted for Christmas. His parents spoke little to no English. Fortunately we had a bag of toys in the pickup for a boy so we gave him the toys we had and he smiled from ear to ear. My limited vocabulary in Spanish was thank you and please. I decided then to learn Spanish and be bi-lingual. I'm 67 years old and don't regret a day I started learning. My progress is slow and my listening skills and translation skills-son no bueno. Local speakers speak way to fast for me to interpret and understand. Your basic tips to read Spanish books ages 6-10 is a way I can improve my understanding of the language. I can read and write well, it's the listening and interpreting that my shortfall. Thank you for the tips

  • @SaMoLsSs
    @SaMoLsSs Рік тому +83

    Tu Español es bastante bueno, siempre es bueno abrirse a otros idiomas, literal expande tu mente a niveles que no se imagina uno, definitivamente una buena inversión. saludos y éxito!

  • @AngiesOGChannel
    @AngiesOGChannel Рік тому +43

    I love love how realistic you are with this. I've been wanting to learn spanish for awhile but all these challenges of learning it in just a few days made me feel like I cant. Your tips are so helpful, thank you!!

  • @ari3732
    @ari3732 Рік тому +97

    I know it's going to be incredibly helpful to speak with native Spanish speakers but I struggle so much with the fear of being mocked and judged.

    • @makairinervin9269
      @makairinervin9269 Рік тому +4

      If you’re on a language app then they’re as bad or were as bad as you are and they should understand. I’ve never got made fun of and vice versa. Random people maybe.

    • @mr.squirrel58
      @mr.squirrel58 11 місяців тому +11

      @@makairinervin9269 I feel and felt the same way so I only restrict my speaking to one or two words. When a local talks to me, I'm lost because my brain can't comprehend the flood of words coming at me all at once. I'm constantly using google translate to make sure I'm not saying something incorrectly or calling someone's mother a cow, LOL!

    • @makairinervin9269
      @makairinervin9269 11 місяців тому +3

      @@mr.squirrel58 im at a high level in Spanish but I still struggle with that too sometimes. You and I need more input. Listening to Spanish videos or audio with the Spanish subtitles really helps you piece the words together

    • @makairinervin9269
      @makairinervin9269 11 місяців тому +2

      @@mr.squirrel58 also I’ve been transcribing Spanish videos. It’s sometimes “boring work” but will help you.

  • @okorolina
    @okorolina Рік тому +67

    I love Gloria Estefan and learned a lot of her songs in Spanish and that helped me a lot to get more. I'm trying to write out my daily routine in my intended fluent languages so that I can learn some of the basic activities.

    • @randolphotoniel
      @randolphotoniel Рік тому +1

      Hello everyone, my mother tongue is Spanish so if you are looking for someone to practice your Spanish with I am here😊 I think it will be a good idea if we could share our knowledge!

    • @bettina4120
      @bettina4120 Рік тому

      I did the same

  • @willythebluebear
    @willythebluebear Рік тому +134

    Take your favorite movie in your own mother tongue, the one you know every dialogue by heart so much you have seen and reviewed it.
    Look for a version in the target language you wish to acquire and watch it at least 10 times in the target language and subtitled in the target language as well.
    You save your brain the translation stage - it already knows what is going to be said - and you go directly to the transposition, it's much more efficient. The rest is just vocabulary to acquire.

    • @haroldcampbell3337
      @haroldcampbell3337 Рік тому +3

      Hilarious

    • @Jus_Saiyan
      @Jus_Saiyan Рік тому +5

      that would be..,. Friday lol

    • @alicekat11
      @alicekat11 Рік тому

      Is this is more my speed. My aDD makes the book thing seem like a chore (though it’s amazing advice). Thanks!

    • @boymom4353
      @boymom4353 Рік тому

      Oh my GOD!!! This is genius I didn’t even think about this. I’m trying to learn Spanish and I’m almost there……I just get nervous and freeze up when someone speaks to me in Spanish 😂 out of fear of saying the wrong thing. Also I need ppl to talk to me slow! I’m just ready to be able to not have ppl talk slowly to me. 😅

    • @willythebluebear
      @willythebluebear Рік тому +1

      @@boymom4353 from my personal experience, people are so impressed and flattered that we try to speak their own language - and for me it's a matter of respect if I'am abroad - that not only do they forgive any mistakes you make, but in addition they never make fun of you, they correct you nicely and politely and they respect you more because you show them respect on their language and therefore their own culture.
      I learned the basics of basic conversation in Spanish in 3 weeks in 2001 when I was offered a job opportunity in Barcelona, Spain, that really interested me. I was supposed to start 3 weeks later...
      As I literally learned to read with the Tintin comic strips by the Belgian author Hergé, I know each philactery by heart. As I had 3 of the Tintin albums in Spanish, I read them at least 20 times each and by the process that I explained previously, I was able when I arrived on the spot to carry on a basic conversation (without terms technical or specific to a cultural/professional environment/etc) and all my new interlocutors were pleasantly surprised. but I confess to having a shitty accent, just like in English, I am French speaking, so you know what it looks like when we speak English ;)
      But again, mistakes and accent, people don't care if you put in the effort of learning their language. Besides, women thought it was cute!
      Eight years later, another consulting position was offered to me in Budapest, Hungary, and I did the exact same thing with similar results.
      work smarter, not harder, and just try with a movie, for the accent part.

  • @Dude408f
    @Dude408f Рік тому +26

    Eres una persona super positiva, tienes una energía fantástica, además eres consistente y hermosa. En resumen, muchas cosas a tu favor, lograrás todos tus propósitos! 😃👍

  • @alelolzz
    @alelolzz Рік тому +17

    i am 15 and i am Mexican. my mom is from mexico and my dad is American. sadly my mom did not teach me spanish for some reason. to this day i am very upset about it because i am unable to talk to my older aunts and uncles as they only speak spanish. many people say languages in school don’t teach you anything but i have found the opposite. i’ve been slowly communicating with my family members and gratefully my mom first language is spanish so i have someone to practice with all the time
    something that has helped me pick up words in spanish is listening to spanish songs. i recommend “No me Queda más” by Selena because it is a good pace if you already have been in touch with the language. my goal is to be fluent !! i love spanish and want to communicate with other people of different cultures!

    • @kiarathomas1345
      @kiarathomas1345  Рік тому +2

      Me encanta esa cancion tambien! Keep up the good work!

  • @jay17hehe
    @jay17hehe Місяць тому +1

    Girl u are so amazing! Thankyou for the great tips!🫶🏼

  • @JerichoLaw27
    @JerichoLaw27 Рік тому +45

    Putting my phone in Spanish was a game changer for me. Great video, love the black girl magic!

    • @nyssia7
      @nyssia7 6 місяців тому +4

      This has nothing to do with her being black but okay 👍

    • @ER-df8vx
      @ER-df8vx 5 місяців тому +1

      ​@@nyssia7exactly

    • @Not-nat-22
      @Not-nat-22 5 місяців тому

      @@nyssia7actually stfu…. Let him congratulate her you fkn Debbie downer

  • @ElRecopilador-wz9dn
    @ElRecopilador-wz9dn Рік тому +69

    Qué bien Kiara, felicidades por ese logro; ahora tendrás acceso a toda una cultura nueva, a películas, a canciones, a viajes, a amistades, e libros nuevos, incluso a aventuras profesionales. Éxito!!

    • @kiarathomas1345
      @kiarathomas1345  Рік тому +18

      Muchas gracias! Estoy emocionada aprender mas culturas y viajar--No puedo esperar!

  • @PoppaBoondoxx
    @PoppaBoondoxx Рік тому +24

    Love this! I took Spanish all 4 years of high school but bc there weren’t many people in proximity to me that also spoke the language, I started to lose this skill. Now that I am in Texas, I must say that I use Spanish on a near daily basis. Lol I’m not quite fluent yet, but I can understand and participate in most conversations. Thanks for the tips. ❤

  • @faded_ace5144
    @faded_ace5144 Рік тому +12

    I have a friend that moved from China to the U.S. And he learned English rather quickly, but it's because he was just surrounded by it. He also would listen and watch things in English to help him understand and learn the language. It's kind of funny because my Cuban mom always said that she was almost convinced to move to a Spanish speaking country for a year, throw me into a Spanish speaking school, and she said I would learn Spanish in no time lol.

  • @tomjones4521
    @tomjones4521 Рік тому +3

    I really like the vibe this woman is putting out into the world. Thank you for helping me out. The world needs more people like you.

  • @MylesAD
    @MylesAD Рік тому +7

    I started with duolingo, then moved on to Babbel after a holiday to the Dominican Republic. At the time I was a chef and one of the other chefs was from Barcelona, so it really helped talking with him in spanish. By the time I went back to D.R. two years later, I was speaking well enough to be somewhat independent as a tourist there. Pretty much stopped learning it after that trip, and have now committed to doing 15-30 mins a day on babbel as of the new year, as well as listening to spanish podcasts while working.
    Moving to France when I was 12 and living there for 8 years and speaking french, made learning Spanish so so easy.

  • @Dani-in7fi
    @Dani-in7fi Рік тому +81

    It's crazy because I did the same thing, but wasn't consistent. I speak Spanish on a conversational level, even though I wasn't consistent. I can only imagine how much I can achieve if I start doing this again.

    • @espanolocura
      @espanolocura Рік тому

      Hi, we are starting with our channel, maybe it is gonna help you to learn Spanish. See our website. Sorry for spam :)

    • @dutchessdreamer4543
      @dutchessdreamer4543 Рік тому

      Do it again.

    • @a5a346
      @a5a346 Рік тому

      So you’re intermediate?

    • @Dani-in7fi
      @Dani-in7fi Рік тому +4

      @@a5a346 Yes, I still understand much of what's said to me and can read it, but really struggle to speak fluently.

    • @a5a346
      @a5a346 Рік тому +1

      @@Dani-in7fi yea the speaking is hard cuz of the grammar rules, and developing a tongue for it too but I’ve been studying Spanish seriously for bout 3 weeks now an the speech has gotten better, try to practice sum short phrases at first. How did u get your listening comprehension speed up to keep up with what natives say? And what level would u say u are? (Like A2,B1 etc.)

  • @truckingandtraveling
    @truckingandtraveling Рік тому +9

    Thank you for this video. I'm a truck driver and, I've been wanting to retire in South America and really want to learn Spanish. I've been told to start with Duolingo. No time like the present, I guess.

    • @randolphotoniel
      @randolphotoniel Рік тому +2

      Hello everyone, my mother tongue is Spanish so if you are looking for someone to practice your Spanish with I am here😊 I think it will be a good idea if we could share our knowledge!

  • @AnnGee369
    @AnnGee369 9 днів тому

    Hallelujah, Hola...I'm 63, inspired by your encouraging ideas to listen to music to compare two books of each language, to be consistent not be hard on myself and if alone with learning to speak what I'm doing in that language as well as get the app and upon seeing your beautiful smile as well as angelic spirit I'm motivated and hope for growth and achievement and a successful relationship in communication with Spanish speaking people with the joy and enthusiasm I've witnessed radiating through your countenance.

  • @DS-br1wn
    @DS-br1wn Рік тому +5

    She’s really cute! And when she speaks Spanish… omg!!! 😍😍😍

  • @system-failure14
    @system-failure14 Рік тому +10

    Yo vivo en Canada, y hace poco iniciamos un grupo de algunos canadienses que desean practicar su español, me conmueve y me alegra el corazón que cuando les pregunté por que desean aprender español las respuestas fueron: disfruto aprenderlo y hablarlo❤

  • @abdulaikoroma5458
    @abdulaikoroma5458 Рік тому +6

    Good advice. English is the official language of my country in Africa.I studied French in school up to university. I taught French in high school for a couple of years. When I arrived in the USA I fell in love with the Spanish language. I started with Duolingo, Great Courses and Gale Spanish courses. Now I am in intermediate level. I read and speak Spanish every day at work . I interact with Spanish speakers everyday as a Librarian. The main advice I will give language learners is immersion of it. You should not be shy to make mistakes. You will correct yourself as you get along. When I go to the grocery stores, the mall I speak Spanish if I realize the cashier speaks Spanish. I’m pretty well comfortable in speaking it. More importantly French and Spanish are Romance languages

  • @SandyFam
    @SandyFam Рік тому +10

    Thank you for sharing your story with us! I am a gringa that became fluent in Spanish. I hope to learn a few other languages in the future, Lord willing!
    It’s so cool being able to break language barriers and it always brings a smile to their faces once they see that you made the effort to learn their language.

  • @lordjafar8528
    @lordjafar8528 Рік тому +1

    U are a breath of fresh air in the morning ..I could listen to u talk all day...In English or Spanish

  • @mscervantesr466
    @mscervantesr466 8 місяців тому

    I appreciate that you emphasized the importance of taking your time and there is no quick gimmick to get the job done. Thank you for posting the video.

  • @ObeyDaqSwaqq
    @ObeyDaqSwaqq Рік тому +16

    I am self learning Spanish, Japanese, and Thai & I realized recently I understand a lot of Spanish spoken by natives, however, I don’t retain as many words as I comprehend so I’m going to try your book idea. Thank you. I listen to bad baby and a few other Spanglish musicians and you’re right about remembering things you relate to, I memorize a few Spanish songs. I meditate daily in Japanese & Thai which helps as well. So glad yt recommended this.

    • @angelicsparkles
      @angelicsparkles Рік тому +2

      How much time do you spend on each language and frequency?

    • @Kidassassin109
      @Kidassassin109 Рік тому +3

      Bad baby? Or bad bunny 😂😂

    • @EduardCabarcas
      @EduardCabarcas Рік тому +2

      hello, I speak Spanish as a native language, if you want me to practice with you, it would be a pleasure, I am practicing English, we could both help each other😁

    • @dutchessdreamer4543
      @dutchessdreamer4543 Рік тому

      @@EduardCabarcas Maybe we can exchange languages.

    • @dave-jo8oj
      @dave-jo8oj 11 місяців тому

      ​@@Kidassassin109I think they have a few More words to learn 😂

  • @CodyCook-m1i
    @CodyCook-m1i Місяць тому +1

    Watching children teach themselves discipline is pretty cool.

  • @MrSouthofBoston
    @MrSouthofBoston Рік тому

    Congratulations. My dad was from Portugal. He passed young. Now I’m trying to learn the language. Great video and beautiful smile.

  • @jenniferolivera9497
    @jenniferolivera9497 11 місяців тому +3

    Wonderful tips here! I am half Puerto Rican but unfortunately never learned fluently but always desired to be bilingual. Wanted to start teaching myself but have not been fully sure where to start. Thank you for giving me some notes on how to go about starting to strengthen and go deeper beyond what little bit “un poco” that I already know! Gracias! 🙏

  • @lindasmith6668
    @lindasmith6668 Рік тому +5

    Thank you so much for the encouragement. I have been seriously studying Spanish for a couple of years and I am further than when I started...you're right it takes time.
    Again thank you for smile and encouragement. God bless you.

  • @blueberrypoptart2424
    @blueberrypoptart2424 Рік тому +12

    I'm only at B1 rn, but changing my phone to Spanish has helped so much

    • @josecontreras7153
      @josecontreras7153 Рік тому +4

      Why is your comment in English?

    • @TheFlyingMonkey200
      @TheFlyingMonkey200 Рік тому

      @@josecontreras7153 por qué sos un boludo?

    • @evalinacesarcassule5097
      @evalinacesarcassule5097 Рік тому +1

      @@josecontreras7153 why shouldn't?!? Clearly, you don't have nothing to do

    • @josecontreras7153
      @josecontreras7153 Рік тому

      @@evalinacesarcassule5097 B1 level in Spanish and you write your comment in English? It makes no sense. Why don't you write in Spanish. So everybody can see it?🤷🏻‍♂️

    • @Cubanmuchacha
      @Cubanmuchacha Рік тому

      @@josecontreras7153 why are you hating? She can write in which ever language she wants 😂

  • @Jinka1950
    @Jinka1950 Рік тому +1

    Young lady.... you are so right...... I try to think in Spanish as possible.... and pick up a few vocabulary weekly.. I make myself use them.... thank you....

  • @heatherkokxyoganerdstudio7101
    @heatherkokxyoganerdstudio7101 Рік тому +4

    Thank you! Great advice. I did 3 months on Lingoda to get a foundation. I’m doing Duolingo now. You are intelligent and adorable and I know you will go far in this life. Happy adventuring!

  • @kishaswartz
    @kishaswartz Рік тому +4

    That's awesome! I'm from South Africa and I was always interested in learning Spanish fluently. I hope I can start learning this year.

  • @Kolton-Sanders
    @Kolton-Sanders 10 місяців тому +3

    Tu Español es bastante bueno, siempre es bueno abrirse a otros idiomas, literal expande tu mente a niveles que no se imagina uno, definitivamente una buena inversión. saludos y éxito!

  • @shellycooper2702
    @shellycooper2702 Рік тому +1

    I decided today that I want to learn Spanish. I'm British and go on holiday to Spain frequently. Thankyou so much for you're advice! I'm determined. I'm realistically going to give myself 12 months. Loved you're video! Glad i watched, Isignan con el buen trabajo! ❤

  • @wickedways1291
    @wickedways1291 Рік тому

    You were such a delight to listen to. Such a humble and beautiful young lady. I am 61 and have always wanted to learn Spanish. You just intrigued me even more. TY

  • @hemersoneustak
    @hemersoneustak Рік тому +22

    ¡Gracias por ese vídeo! Volví a estudiar español recientemente y estaba a buscar consejos para mejorar mi aprendizaje y encontré tu vídeo. 😄

    • @kiarathomas1345
      @kiarathomas1345  Рік тому +2

      Aheuvo! Muchas gracias!

    • @cecilwarren4587
      @cecilwarren4587 Рік тому

      Ahuevo jaja

    • @captaindip6970
      @captaindip6970 Рік тому +2

      este*

    • @randolphotoniel
      @randolphotoniel Рік тому +1

      Hello everyone, my mother tongue is Spanish so if you are looking for someone to practice your Spanish with I am here😊 I think it will be a good idea if we could share our knowledge!

    • @cowlico
      @cowlico Рік тому

      ahuevo

  • @blackeneddove
    @blackeneddove Рік тому +7

    Just have to say - your smile is everything! ❤️☺️
    Thanks for the tips! I really need to learn as many of my patients are Spanish speaking only.

  • @makeyourlifeeasier5794
    @makeyourlifeeasier5794 Рік тому +4

    Good honest advice. Nice that there was no hype like " learn Spanish in 2 weeks without any effort while you're sleeping" nonsense. Good work.

  • @Ab97121
    @Ab97121 Рік тому +1

    As a Puerto Rican who didn’t really grow up speaking Spanish I felt like such an outcast. Thank youuu

  • @danmccurry3810
    @danmccurry3810 Рік тому +4

    Thanks for posting, and your a realistic motivated teacher. English is my native language, but after living in New Jersey for a couple of years I seemed to be surrounded by more Spanish speaking people than English. Now in New York I also have lots of Spanish friends , so I certainly appreciate your tips and advice!
    You have a warm practical way of learning and teaching what has worked well for you!

  • @thecurator2626
    @thecurator2626 Рік тому +9

    You said many of the things I did on my journey teaching myself Spanish years ago. These are great tips. Congratulations 🎉 and thank you for helping others.

  • @conweez
    @conweez Рік тому +9

    Great advice! I think building the habits and routines as a beginner can be the most difficult part. However, once you start building a certain level of vocabulary and have the capacity to have basic conversations, then the learning really starts to became super fun and rewarding.
    By the way, here are some resources that helped me many years ago.
    Once you reach a basic intermediate level, I found the following resources to be very helpful. The House on Mango Street in Spanish is very good since the chapters or very short vignettes rather than long drawn out chapters. Graded readers can be quite helpful too. They usually introduce new vocabulary, have pre-reading activities that will help you when you run into the word in the actual story and post reading comprehension activities that will help you retain the understanding of the new words and the overall understanding of the story.
    The poems of Pablo Neruda are also great and often come in bilingual editions. The poems are very short and easy to analyze and digest. I usually underline new words and translate them directly on the margin of the page. Novelas and short stories with dialogue are nice because they introduce slang and regional colloquialisms that you usually won't pick up in non-fiction or in an academic context. Finally, it is great to find a conversation partner which will allow you to use the newly retained vocabulary and expressions in an authentic context. You can usually find a language partner at a meetup event or using some online resources like www.conversationexchange.com.

  • @houseofmatrix6174
    @houseofmatrix6174 Рік тому +8

    Congratulations on becoming fluent 🙏🏿

  • @iamtvblake
    @iamtvblake 2 місяці тому +1

    Very practical tips. I appreciate your honesty and transparency ❤ great content. God bless you!

  • @mccnbinnie9840
    @mccnbinnie9840 Рік тому +8

    Practice is right! I started learning Korean and Spanish and traveled and was getting better in both languages but went I went back to my country and didn't get to interact as much, I don't recall as much as I did. But I am happy to get back to learning languages again* ❤

  • @benjamind7639
    @benjamind7639 Рік тому +3

    This is do motivating. I’ve been off and on with Duolingo for a year and it’s a great base. I can speak basic sentences thanks to it. It’s pretty fun with my coworkers.

  • @Godschild154
    @Godschild154 Рік тому +4

    Hi kiara thanks for the advice. I know a lil bit of Spanish but I learn it on and off. When im finished with studies I think I want to take Spanish more seriously. Thanks again for the wonderful video.

  • @aaron88972
    @aaron88972 Рік тому +3

    Gracias Kiara! eso era bueno!
    I’m trying to learn Spanish as I see so many people in my job speak it.

  • @nicole4779
    @nicole4779 Рік тому +2

    I moved to Brazil in my 30s and learned Portuguese. All of this advice is super helpful including things I did as well as new tips I will definitely practice so I don’t forget Portuguese. Great video! Thx 🙏🏾

  • @SpanishLearn2024
    @SpanishLearn2024 10 місяців тому

    I love how he describes his process and method in detail. He's not just saying "With motivation, you can do it too!" He's actually giving people like me guidance on how to learn :) Respect, man! 💕💕

  • @DrCrystalHarris
    @DrCrystalHarris Рік тому +5

    loved it. I took a break from Duolingo but I feel inspired to get started again.

  • @AntoineBandele
    @AntoineBandele Рік тому +4

    Get it, Kiara. I've been perpetually intermediate with my Spanish for the past 7 years. My best Spanish was when I worked retail for 5 years and spoke to a lot of Spanish speakers that needed help with their electronics. I've definitely declined since that time.

  • @sarahdouglas9119
    @sarahdouglas9119 Рік тому +3

    Thank you so much for your video. I’ve been wanting to be fluent in Spanish for so long… I regret not practicing like I should… I had tried learning some Spanish songs from Spanish albums I had too… it was fun trying to follow along with the singer while reading the lyrics..That helped me read Spanish better…. I work at a store and I do get customers that can only speak Spanish and I wish I worked harder so I can talk with them… I really, really need to stop procrastinating and study 📖.

  • @HB-yq8gy
    @HB-yq8gy Рік тому +1

    My wife is from El Salvador we have been married for 35 years with 2 grown kids. That was my life dream! I don't why she wouldn't teach them or me Spanish she said it's not necessary in the USA. My guess is her insecurities her teaching me might make opportunities for myself. But, now at 58 y/o I will learn myself! Thank you for giving me motivation!

    • @jmph2058
      @jmph2058 Рік тому +1

      "Not necessarily learn another language? " That's really bad advice. Being bilingual is great.

  • @salebowsadventures293
    @salebowsadventures293 Рік тому

    I’m 46 about to be 47 years old. I took a very small amount of Spanish in high school. I’m now dating a very, very beautiful Spanish lady who I adore completely. She is learning English like I am learning Spanish. I want to be able to just be able to talk to her without the use of google translate. This video is very inspiring and helpful. I thank you so much for this, Kiara!

  • @jeffw1267
    @jeffw1267 Рік тому +5

    I find that it helps to work on short-term memory, because with a stronger memory the first impressions are deeper and so I don't have to review as much. I do this by working to retain larger units of information. For example, I will remember five phrases in a group and repeat them all back without prompting from notes or books. With individual vocabulary words, I'll take at least ten at a time. You can start with smaller groups and work your way up.

  • @mauriciorodriguez1390
    @mauriciorodriguez1390 Рік тому +9

    Me encantaria que hicieras un video hablando totalmente en español 🙏🏼

  • @jakinimenab4098
    @jakinimenab4098 Рік тому +8

    Very smart and creative ideas! Thank you, Kiara and Happy Holidays!

  • @AngelVOPro
    @AngelVOPro Рік тому

    Wow!!!! You remind me of me. I’m old enough to be your mother, but you remind me of my quest in learning languages at your age. Keep doing what you do!!!! You have such a curious and intelligent mind and soul. Thank you for being you. 😊

  • @marycruz4042
    @marycruz4042 Рік тому

    I enjoyed your video 💕
    Im 67 years old and sort of regretted not completing my Spanish Language class during my 7th grade. I thought it was not necessary as I'm a Pacific Islander but now i hear people speaking it so fluently much and it makes me want to go back with self.teaching after watching your video .... with L♡ve ,,,,

  • @erikawoods8975
    @erikawoods8975 Рік тому +5

    Yes! I learned English at 18. My first language is Spanish. I actually went to English school for 5 months. Then every book I read and have read since is in English. And of course, every Podcast and UA-cam or anything else is in English. Twenty years later many can’t even hear my accent anymore, I still have one but it is not very strong. Work, work hard!

  • @Mary-S11
    @Mary-S11 Рік тому +4

    It’s funny because my mother tongue is Spanish and obviously I’m not interested in learning Spanish, but I’m learning English so I’m going to use your method and tips to improve my English.😄 Thank you so much for your advice and your Spanish is amazing! Keep it up.😊