Tucson sunset

Children play on the slide at Himmel Park as the sun sets over Tucson on a February evening in 2012.

When Laura Gomez, a 31-year-old mother and teacher, couldn't find Spanish playgroups or storytimes to fit her schedule, she decided to start her own.Β 

It's called Tucson Spanish Playgroup and it hosts a variety of monthly activities that encourage Spanish immersion for families who either already speak the language or want to learn.Β 

Gomez, who learned most of her Spanish skills as an adult from her husband, wants her kids to be raised bilingual. She uses mostly Spanish and sign language with her 20-month-old daughter.Β 

Starting the group is her way of creating a community of families who can learn from each other and "share ideas, events, activities and classes that are relevant to Spanish language or Latin American culture."Β 

Events, ranging from meetups at a park to hanging out at the Children's museum, can be found on the group's Facebook page, which was set up as a resource for anyone who's interested.Β 

There is no cost to join, however some events might be at places that charge admission. Just follow the FB page and show up to events.

Next event

What: Earth Day Playtime en EspaΓ±ol

When: 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Sunday

Where: Morris K Udall Regional Park, 7600 E. Tanque Verde Road

Cost: Free

Details: Playtime at the park. Meet at the Udall playground. Bring healthy snacks and a blanket.Β 


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Angela Pittenger | This Is Tucson