20 Simple Spanish Phrases for Toddlers That Parents Can Start Using Today
20 Simple Spanish Phrases for Toddlers (That Parents Can Start Using Today)
When I first started speaking Spanish with my kids, I thought I needed a big plan, a stack of flashcards, and a PhD in grammar to do it “right.”
Spoiler: I did not.
What I actually needed was five spare seconds, a willing toddler, and a handful of real-life Spanish phrases I could use on repeat.
If you’re a busy parent (read: your coffee is always cold), here’s the truth—your toddler’s early years are perfect for adding Spanish to your life. Why? Because their world is built out of short, simple moments: getting dressed, snack time, running in circles for no apparent reason. And that’s exactly the kind of language you can learn and use without an extra hour in your day.
So here’s my gift to you: 20 easy Spanish phrases for toddlers you can start using today—no grammar drills, no flashcards required. These are the exact kinds of words and expressions I’ve used to sneak Spanish into my everyday parenting life. Use them as-is, or pick just two to try this week.
Morning & Getting Ready: Spanish Phrases for Daily Routines
Buenos días – Good morning
Vamos a vestirnos – Let’s get dressed
Lávate las manos – Wash your hands
Ponte los zapatos – Put on your shoes
💡 Tip: Pair these with actions—toddlers love connecting words to what’s happening in the moment.
Mealtime Spanish Phrases for Toddlers
¿Tienes hambre? – Are you hungry?
Es hora de comer – It’s time to eat
Más, por favor – More, please
No más, gracias – No more, thank you
💡 Tip: Toddlers are highly motivated by snacks. This is prime Spanish practice territory.
Playtime & Movement Vocabulary in Spanish
Vamos afuera – Let’s go outside
Salta – Jump
Corre – Run
Baila conmigo – Dance with me
💡 Tip: Movement words stick faster because they’re fun—plus, you burn off some of that toddler energy in the process.
Comfort & Connection: Loving Spanish Phrases for Kids
Te quiero mucho – I love you so much
Un abrazo – A hug
Ven aquí – Come here
Está bien – It’s okay
💡 Tip: These phrases build emotional connection in any language—and your child will associate Spanish with warmth and love.
Spanish Bedtime Phrases to End the Day
Es hora de dormir – It’s time to sleep
Buenas noches – Good night
Dulces sueños – Sweet dreams
💡 Tip: Repetition at bedtime is gold. Say these in the same order each night and they’ll become part of your child’s cozy wind-down routine.
You Don’t Have to Be Fluent to Teach Your Toddler Spanish
Friend, my Spanish isn’t perfect. And yet—my kids are learning. Not because I’m fluent, but because I use what I do know, every single day.
You don’t need to be perfect to be effective.
You don’t need to know everything to say something that matters.
Start small. Pick a phrase, say it daily, and watch your toddler light up.
💌 Freebie: Want a fridge-friendly version of these phrases? I’ve made a one-page printable you can stick on your fridge or changing table for instant inspiration. Grab it [here].
