Hide & speak Spanish

All of the attractively illustrated "Hide & Speak" language-learning books use a tried-and-tested method for teaching children vocabulary in a new language.

Kids open the book to any right-hand page, where they will see two vertical lists.

The list on the left presents pictures, and the list on the right gives words in the target language that match each picture.

First, kids study the entire page, say the words out loud a few times, and try to remember them.

Next, they cover the pictures with the left-hand flap that is attached to the book's back cover.

They read and recite the words out loud as they try to recall the adjoining picture.

Next, they lift the flap covering the pictures, then use the back cover's right-hand flap to cover the words.

Using the pictures as a prompt, they must try to repeat the correct words for the pictures they have covered.

They can also use a water-based felt-tip pen to write the words on the flaps, which can be erased for future use by rubbing off with a soft cloth or tissue.

These charming books turn language learning into a fun game, presenting a series of themes that include On the Farm, In the Classroom, At the Zoo, At the Beach, and many others. (Ages 7 and older)