Learning a second language from tapes / podcasts

[NearlyPastTheYardarm]

My DH is Welsh, but never learned the language beyond the very basics. However, he likes the idea of our two DSs learning Welsh, and I am keen that they learn as many languages as early as possible.

As we live in Bedfordshire though, Welsh classes aren't really available. Short of hiring a welsh au pair, I thought maybe having something like learning tapes / Rosetta stone equivalents that we could do together might help, or at least allow him to learn to hear and say the sounds of the language. How far from realistic am I being? Any other suggestions?

Academic research into bilingualism says that it's the actual interaction in the language that helps babies and children develop the language. Not tapes, videos etc unfortunately. Although once the kids are able to speak it then those resources are useful. Sorry. We have the same issue (not welsh but another language). You essentially have to speak it to them first.

Right. Ok, thanks.

Yeah, they are pretty rubbish. I studied languages at A Level and Uni. The tapes are crap unless somebody just happens to say the exact phrase that is on them.

A Welsh speaking au-pair seems a good idea. She could speak Welsh to your DS and DH. Beyond that your DH could try some simple songs, e.g. counting, head, shoulders, knees and toes in Welsh or simple funny/silly games where you repeat the same sentence/word, e.g. (in an animated way) 'give me a kiss/that sweet ... to start off. Hide and seek (counting, 'I found you'). Stuff where you repeat the same language in a fun way.