Raising bilingual children is a beautiful challenge—especially when you’re oceans away from the country where your heritage language is spoken. For German-speaking parents in Australia, the question often arises: How can we keep German alive for our kids in a predominantly English-speaking world?
The good news? You don’t need to live in Berlin or Vienna to raise fluent German speakers. With a little intention and creativity, your home can become a vibrant hub of German language and culture. Here are some tried-and-true strategies—many of which come straight from our own Deutschstunde families and community.
1. Speak German Consistently—Even When It’s Tempting Not To
It sounds simple, but it’s powerful: always speak German to your children. Whether you’re asking them to put on their shoes or discussing the plot of a movie, consistency is key.
“Even when my sons answer in English, I reply in German. Over time, they have started switching back without even noticing.” — Andrea, Sydney
It might feel awkward at first, especially when the English speaking parent, friends or teachers are around, but children thrive on routine. The more German they hear, the more natural it becomes.
2. Read German Books Together—Every Night If You Can
German children’s literature is rich, imaginative, and often delightfully quirky. Make bedtime stories a German-only zone. From classics like “Die kleine Raupe Nimmersatt” and “Pippi Langstrumpf”to modern gems like “Die Schule der magischen Tiere”, there’s something for every age.
“We keep a basket of German books next to the bed for our girls. It’s our go-to for quiet time.” — Peter, Sydney
If you’re short on books, check in with your Deutschstunde teachers as they have plenty of books to borrow. Also, check out online libraries or order from German bookstores that ship internationally.
3. Cook German Recipes Together—Language Meets Culture
Language is more than words—it’s taste, smell, and tradition. Cooking together is a wonderful way to bond and introduce vocabulary in a natural setting.
Try baking Waffeln, making Kartoffelsalat, or preparing a Sunday Frühstück with fresh Brötchen (or the Aussie version!). Talk through the ingredients and steps in German, and let your kids take the lead.
“My daughter now knows the difference between ‘Mehl’ and ‘Zucker’—and she’s proud of it!” — Sabine, Brisbane
4. Watch German Children’s TV and listen to German Audio Stories
There’s a treasure trove of German-language content online, especially on YouTube. Some favorites include:
- Willi wills wissen – Curious and educational
- Die Sendung mit der Maus – A beloved classic
- Bobo Siebenschläfer – Perfect for toddlers
- Checker Tobi – Fun and informative for older kids
Set up a playlist and make it part of your weekly routine. Subtitles can help bridge understanding, and repetition builds vocabulary. Some of our Deutschstunde families have even changed their settings on their Streaming Services to German so that watching movies in German becomes the first option!
German Hörspiele für Kinder: A Joyful Gateway to Language and Imagination
German Hörspiele (audio stories) for children are more than just entertainment—they’re a delightful blend of storytelling, soundscapes, and voice acting that spark imagination and keep the German language vibrantly alive. Whether it’s mischievous goblins, curious detectives, or magical adventures, these audio tales captivate young listeners and transport them to fantastical worlds—all without screens.
For bilingual families or anyone nurturing German language skills, Hörspiele offer a playful and immersive way to reinforce vocabulary, listening comprehension, and cultural nuance. And the best part? Kids absolutely love them. From giggles to gasps, the emotional engagement is real—and it turns passive listening into active learning.
Plus, with so many free options available online, it’s never been easier to make Hörspiele part of your child’s daily rhythm—during car rides, quiet time, or bedtime wind-downs.
5. Join the Deutschstunde Community—Language Thrives in Connection
One of the most powerful ways to keep German alive is to connect with others who are doing the same. That’s where Deutschstunde comes in.
Deutschstunde classes offer more than just language instruction—they create a space where kids can see German as fun, social, and relevant. Singing songs, playing games, reading books with other students and celebrating traditions—it all reinforces what you’re doing at home. Deutschstunde also offers German games & reading afternoons like our “Wie früher Spiele- und Lese Nachmittag” and the much loved “Lights out, Torches On” reading night, reinforcing the connection of the German community to the German language.
“My daughter looks forward to her Deutschstunde class every week. It’s where German comes alive for her—not just something Mum speaks at home.” — Julia, Sydney
And for parents, the Deutschstunde community is a lifeline. Sharing tips, swapping books, organizing playdates, going camping together—it’s easier (and more joyful) when you’re not doing it alone.
6. Make German “Special”—Celebrate It!
Children respond to excitement and novelty. Create rituals around the German language:
- Celebrate Nikolaus or Ostern with traditional songs and crafts
- Join in for the St. Martin Fun Lantern Walk at Deutschstunde
- Have a “German-only” day once a week
- Play German board games or card games
- Sing German lullabies or pop songs together
“My kids love celebrating St. Nikolaus – especially getting a little present when none of their friends at school get one, seems to be extra special! Plus, then having St. Nikolaus coming to the Deutschstunde Christmas Party where Nikolaus only speaks German, is an added bonus!” — Dirk, Sydney
Final Thoughts: It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint
Language retention is a long-term journey. There will be phases when your child resists or prefers English—and that’s okay. The goal isn’t perfection, but connection. By weaving German into your daily life with love and consistency, you’re giving your children a gift that will last a lifetime.
And remember—you’re not alone. With the support of Deutschstunde and a growing community of German-speaking families across Australia, your children can thrive in both worlds.
Do you have your own tips or traditions? Share them with us—we’d love to hear how your family keeps German alive in Australia!
