A Few Observations...Right Off The Bat

First and foremost, I've noticed a few things that it might help to know - and certainly helps for me to keep in mind as I practice.

I know that my personality type is different than others, so some of these may not work for you - but they have for me:

1) Make a learning "appointment" - The reality of my situation is that I have to get up at the crack of dawn to study language. I tried for a time just practicing whenever - but it was very easy to put off, and just didn't happen. Getting up early worked for me in college (a lesson I learned 3rd year...), and it is even more true now, with kids who will not leave me alone when they are awake.

2) Surround yourself with the language - I try to turn on the Spanish speaking sports channel when I'm in the car, or read a kids book in Spanish, or just look at "word of the day" sites. My son also has the "Muzzy" line of Spanish products. While those little things don't really impact my spoken Spanish much individually, collectively, they help support what I'm doing.

3) Focus on speaking - OK, I have to admit a bias, since I'm part of the 3DLanguage team. But honestly, it is a heck of a lot more meaningful to practice spoken language than writing. After all, you learn to speak before you learn to read...I really recommend getting a tool that can help you with spoken language. With full disclosure then, try 3DLanguage if you think speaking will help you - Spanish is available now, with English and Arabic under development.

4) Get a partner in crime - My oldest son, unwillingly, has been drafted into my Spanish practice. I try to say what I know to him - and it's funny, but he's young enough to not question it. He routinely responds to me in Spanish now. I can't tell you how motivating that is.