High School Foreign Language Credit, No Textbook Required

Homeschool Better Together with Pam Barnhill

Ready to actually use a foreign language in your homeschool—and give your high schooler credit for it? This episode is a breath of fresh air for every parent who’s ever tried to check the “foreign language” box…and wondered if anything was actually sticking.

Today, I’m joined again by Adelaide Olguin, founder of Talkbox Mom, whose innovative program teaches families to use a second language in real life (think: snack time, errands, or even brushing teeth). She and her husband, Hector, have raised their three boys across five continents, speaking multiple languages wherever they go.

Recently, Adelaide expanded Talkbox Mom to serve high schoolers too. If the idea of high school “credit” makes your palms sweat, don’t worry: she’s sharing exactly how to make real-world fluency count for both your transcript and your family connection.

We chat about what it takes to homeschool high school foreign language with confidence and joy—even if you’re learning right alongside your teen, juggling multiple ages, or terrified of testing.

Wondering if you can keep things hands-on and still get a transcript-ready result? This episode will have you saying “da,” “sí,” or just plain “yes, please!”

What you’ll learn:

• The common pressure (and myth) around “doing high school foreign language right”—and how to actually serve your student
• Why most traditional programs leave kids unable to actually speak another language (even after years of study)
• How Talkbox Mom’s high school program works (yes, including record keeping, grading, and what “counts” as a credit)
• Practical ideas to integrate language learning with real family life—no need to become a grammar drill sergeant
• Easy ways to adapt if you have teens and little ones (or a teen who surprises you with a “random” language they want to study)
• Why fluency opens up opportunities for college, career, travel, and community
• How to handle grading, cultural projects, and “testing”—especially if you’re learning right along with your teen
• Real-life encouragement for the “type A” mom who needs a system (but wants actual results)

Resources Mentioned:

• Talkbox Mom + Free Starter Pack and all other resources Adelaide mentioned
• YMB #54 Natural Foreign Language Learning: A Conversation with Adelaide Olguin (Podcast)
• Language Learning Made Fun With a Fluency Approach (Podcast)

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt45