If you live in the Netherlands, you probably have heard the saying, “Life is too short to learn Dutch.”
To a certain point, I agree; few countries speak Dutch. However, learning the language will be crucial for integrating into the country, finding a community, and setting up some roots.
I migrated to this country one year ago, and even though some people might say I have a talent for learning languages, the easiest way to learn Dutch involves three categories: mentality, methodology, and community. I will explain this in detail throughout the blog.
Imagine this: You prepare a complete speech on how to buy your bread in the morning, you practice in advance, and just when you arrive at the Bakkerij, the person answers immediately, “How can I help you?”
– Great. All your effort lost–
Are you still with me? Then, in the following paragraphs, I will provide you with some of the practical strategies I have used for each category and some of the places and resources I have used to learn Dutch in one year.
Table of Contents
Mentality
Are people in the Netherlands good with English? YES. Do they like to speak English all the time? NO.
I have seen how many migrants complain about not getting a Dutch friend. Some common problems I have heard are that Dutch people only go out among themselves, their conversations are quick, and they do not have enough time (yes, we know everything is on their agendas). If you think about it, most of those problems fall back on a significant barrier: language.
No matter how good their level of English is, let’s be clear: English is not their mother tongue. And yes, it’s normal for them to socialize in the language they have grown up with.
Learning Dutch takes time, but it also creates friendships. Dutch people would be very grateful if you could aim to learn their language.
I want to raise awareness that If you have known your friends since childhood, you will feel comfortable speaking your language. The same thing happened to Dutch people, even though they speak English well.
Do Not Give Up on The First Try
I invite you to try it in this first category: keep speaking Dutch (or trying), no matter if they reply in English. Stop blaming their lack of interest in helping you practice. Believe me, I have been there.
Take ownership of your actions and remember that you must make the effort, not them. I promise that they will change back after you reply in Dutch.
If you are a complete beginner in Dutch, I recommend you check out places where you can learn Dutch. Mondriaan or Volks Universiteit are great ways to start and the cheapest options I have found.
Schools to Learn Dutch
Methodology
This is often true for people whose mother tongue is not English. In my case, Spanish is my native language, and I learned English when I was 18. For me, the easiest way to learn Dutch is to replicate the process you did while learning English.
Think of it this way: when you are a baby, you first listen and speak, then learn to read and write. Other educators might show you a different methodology, but listening has been crucial in my process. I recommend some resources to help you develop your ear.
An extra tip: Do not try to understand everything. Your ears will take time to recognize the words.
Youtube Channel
Podcast
- Een beetje Nederlands
- Zeg Het in het Nederlands.
Movies & Series
Remember, these are some resources I have used myself. Whether you like the topics, I invite you to try as much content as you want. The easiest way to learn Dutch is to find content regarding your hobbies or interests, and start with short videos.
5 minutes a day do more than 1 hour every two weeks.
Community
This category is also part of the methodology, but it is one of the most critical resources for success in learning. As I mentioned in the previous category, you must speak after listening. It is simple: everything you hear, everything you need to repeat.
The easiest way to learn Dutch is to find places to practice with somebody else. This could be a friend, in the library, or online. There are options for all types of personalities and occupations. I have a resource for all the possible buts you might have.😉
Italki
If you are introverted or have a very demanding job, Italki is for you. This online platform lets you find all types of language professors from everywhere and at different prices. One positive thing is that you can also find professors who know your language.
Tip: I suggest two weekly classes of 30-40 minutes instead of 3 hours in one day.
Taal in de Bibliotheek
Libraries in the Netherlands are not only for reading. Depending on the closest library to where you live, you might find the Taal in de Bibliotheek program. I have found this a great way to learn since you are practicing all the time with other migrants who are willing to learn the language.
Tip: There are multiple groups within the library according to your level of Dutch. I suggest practicing topics you can talk about in advance. Ideally, you must know how to introduce yourself.
TaalMaatje
Do you want to learn a language? Dutch people do, too! You can do a language exchange. Find someone who wants to learn your native language or any other language you know. If you do not know anybody, go to the website Conversation Exchange.
Tip: One of the best methods I have seen is discussing a common topic. Watch a movie or read a book together. It is easier when you know the main object of the conversation.
My purpose with this blog was to show you that no matter what obstacles you have in learning Dutch. However, remember that the main motor to learning Dutch is you.
When I started learning this language, I considered multiple components.
- I hope to one day be able to speak multiple languages—I want to be a polyglot.
- Believing in yourself is fundamental. (In case you suffer from Impostor Syndrome, check my article here)
- You will have more job possibilities in the market.
- You will always find a job.
Learning a language can open more opportunities than a master’s degree. I have both, and languages have always found me jobs in the three countries I have migrated to. You need to review your goals, necessities, and desires. Then, take action.
Do you have another method or resource for learning Dutch? Please share it in the comments. I would love to hear your suggestions.
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