English and Dutch

[MsVDL]

My DH is Dutch and speaking to DD in his native tongue, however when we are all together DH switches to English. I try to get DH to only speak Dutch as think it will be confusing for DD as she gets older but DH keeps forgetting. Should I keep harassing DH or leave him to it? Has anyone else had this problem?

I have the exact same problem with the same language! DH has great intentions but gets a better response in English so tends to use that. We have DVDs, books, CDs and games in Dutch and I have asked my in-laws to only speak Dutch when they're over. DS1 is 3.5 and DS2 is 15months. I've now started a game called "What does Daddy call..."( animals, colours etc) which is proving a little more successful. I wish he would persevere though!

It's so frustrating but DH is too impatient! That sounds like a great game I shall have to start playing it! Sadly my DH has some interesting musical choices and I don't think I can listen to any more Jan Smit without pulling my hair out, thankfully DD hasn't taken to it!

Hah, DH just shuddered when I asked him who Jan Smit is! DS1 is obsessed with Thomas the Tank Engine so we've used that as a way to introduce Dutch words (through DVDs and books) and one SIL works in a crèche so has lots of games/songs to attract attention. But it is so frustrating to have to keep reminding him! I would love DS to have the option to live/work there when he's older.

Same issues here I keep nagging reminding DH to speak Dutch. I try to get him to read one Dutch story a day (short one!) but its not always possible. At the weekends we try to speak Dutch at mealtimes, me too. I also ask him to repeat, repeat, repeat when its not really necessary, but it all helps. He must really enjoy being married to me

If you are in the UK, the Dutch government funds several Dutch language and culture schools (lessons whole Saturday morning). Kids can also sit the Cito toets. You can find the schools on the website of the Dutch embassy in London.