Consumer Critique: Lightning Fast Spanish

I recently had the opportunity to review Lightning-fast Spanish for Kids and Families: Learn Spanish, Speak Spanish, Teach Kids Spanish- Quick as a Flash, Even if You Don't Speak a Word Now! (Spanish Edition) by author Carolyn Woods. This is a unique program. It helps you figure out how to teach your kids Spanish using natural language occurrences (such as lunchtime, picking out clothes, finding directions, and more) - and is designed to work even if you don't speak Spanish yourself. She also has books (which I would assume are similar) in French, German, Italian, and Chinese.

The book really is fun. The downside is that there isn't a whole lot of grammar foundation, and if you don't speak Spanish, once you get past the basic situations in the book, it might be hard to provide further instruction (of course, the book advocates finding conversation practice with a native speaker, which can help). The usefulness of this book will depend on your goals for Spanish. If you're trying for fluency, this definitely won't provide it. However, if you're looking for a fun way to expose your child - and yourself - to Spanish, it will provide that. It's a great way to get started, or to supplement your child's Spanish instruction.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of Lightning Fast Spanish to facilitate this review.