Ways to Build Confidence When Speaking Dutch

When students tell me they feel their Dutch is not progressing as fast as they hoped, it’s often because they still find themselves hesitating to speak Dutch IRL. Speaking a new language is intimidating without a doubt, but here is a round up of practical tips to help you build your speaking confidence and put your Dutch lessons to use:

1. Ask for help

   When your colleague or barista switches over to English for you, just say “Ik wil graag mijn Nederlands oefenen.” (I’de like to practice my Dutch)! This simple phrase can go a long way.

2. Start with Small Talk
   Don’t be too ambitious at first. Practice greetings and simple questions like “Hoe gaat het?” or “Hoe zeg je ______?” (How do you say ______?). These phrases are your gateway to conversations and can help put you at ease. See how conversations blossom from there and perhaps you’ll get a little further each time.

3. Don’t Fear Mistakes
   Mistakes are proof you’re learning! In general Dutch people are quite easygoing and supportive and even charmed by the effort. Take your mistakes in stride and remember the Dutch phrase “Niet geschoten is altijd mis!” (If you don’t take the shot, you’ll always miss!”

4. Immerse Yourself Daily
   Label items in your home, listen to Dutch music, podcasts or watch TV shows. Surrounding yourself with the language reinforces what you learn in your Dutch courses.

5. Practice with a Buddy
   Find a friend, classmate, or even a language exchange partner to practice speaking with regularly. It’s less daunting to make mistakes together!

6. Celebrate Your Wins
   Ordered your coffee in Dutch? Understood a phrase on the tram? Celebrate these small victories— they’re signs of progress.

Remember, your confidence will build with time and consistent practice. As the initial excitement of learning a bunch of new words fades, and the hard work of slogging through grammar sets in, don’t forget to take a moment now and then to sit back and remember how far you’ve come!