Cuentos en voz alta: Story Time as a Tool for Heritage Language and Identity Development
Interactive literacy practices such as story time and read-alouds play an important role in supporting heritage language development and long-term language maintenance. While many early childhood Spanish and bilingual story time programs exist, far less attention has been given to the K–12 years, a critical period when English-dominant schooling intensifies and heritage language attrition accelerates.
This webinar explores how Cuentos en voz alta can be adapted as a practical and accessible strategy to reinforce Spanish among heritage speakers beyond early childhood. Drawing on research in bilingual literacy, heritage language development, and identity formation through literature, participants will learn how story time can promote language growth, cultural connection, and community engagement. The session will also introduce interactive and multimodal story time activities that educators, librarians, and community organizations can implement to support Spanish heritage language learners.
About the Presenter
Dr. Sendy Monárrez Rhone is Assistant Professor of Spanish at Texas Woman’s University, where she teaches courses in Spanish language and culture, and medical interpreting. With a background in Hispanic linguistics and heritage language studies, as well as being a professional translator and interpreter, Dr. Rhone’s research focuses on Spanish as a heritage language pedagogy, with particular attention to language maintenance, identity formation, and community-based literacy practices. She is actively involved in initiatives that support Spanish heritage language communities, including collaborations with educators, libraries, and community organizations. Dr. Rhone’s work explores how accessible practices, such as storytelling, reading aloud, and culturally relevant literature, can strengthen Spanish language development and foster belonging among heritage speakers across generations.
Registration
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