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I love traveling. I’ve been to over 35 countries, and most of those trips were paid for using credit card rewards points. When I got pregnant, I thought that my traveling days were over. However, I’ve learned that it doesn’t have to be that way! My daughter is 11 months old and has been on 7 trips. We’ve traveled to Hawaii, to Spain, and yes, to Grandma and Grandpa’s house.
When I travel, I’ve started getting children’s books from the country I am visiting. I’m conversationally fluent in Spanish, and my daughter is part Japanese. I’ve also always wanted to learn French, so we have a growing collection of Spanish, Japanese, and French books!
Plus, studies from Harvard reveal that “creativity, critical thinking skills, and flexibility of the mind are significantly enhanced if children learn a second language at a younger age.” Learning a second language has helped me be a more connected traveler. I can get to know the locals much easier and create relationships that are deeper and more lasting than if I only knew English. Because kids learn languages so easily when they are young, I’m encouraging my daughter to enjoy reading in different languages.
6 Inspiring Foreign Language Books for Kids of All Ages
1. La Casa De Los Ratones
Beautifully made, this book features lots of colorful photographs of mice living in their homes, and the daily adventures they face. The pictures alone make this a book that will capture your child’s attention and invite them to be drawn into the “House of Mice.”
2. El Lago De Los Cisnes
Quite possibly my favorite illustrated book! It features paper cutouts and overlay to create magical dimensions to the pages. The artist, Charlotte Gestaut, recently paired up with fashion powerhouse Fendi to create a “Legends & Farytales” haute couture collection. She’s a true talent.
3. Kimonos
Kimonos teaches kids Japanese words and phrases, and has English translations. I love that this book has lift-up flaps and surprises to find, which makes for a more interactive reading experience.
4. Un Monde Fantastique
This book introduces kids to the magical world of gnomes, sorcerers, and elves, while also learning a thing or two about classical music. It comes with a CD so you can follow along with the book.
5. Yasumi
Yasumi is an activity book for older kids. There are simple Spanish-language questions for practice.
6. Klimt
Klimt is a sticker book with sticker puzzle pieces of Klimt art to recreate. I wouldn’t mind this for myself. 
Bottom Line
When I travel to foreign countries, I like to pick up unique books from that country. Learning a second language has helped me be a more connected traveler. Because kids learn languages so easily when they are young, I’m encouraging my daughter to enjoy reading in different languages. What foreign language books do you love reading with your kids?
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