The turn of a year is a moment of transition:
a time to honor the loved ones
we’ve had to say goodbye to,
and to shape new plans that will carry us forward.
We recently had to say farewell to our dog Mister,
the much-loved “head of the team” at Learn Dutch Fast.
He has now joined our horse Morph
in what we like to imagine as
a beautiful and well-deserved animal heaven.
Mister was never happier than
when he had people around him.
His enthusiasm was legendary.
He happily jumped up to greet everyone,
his entire life, for almost fourteen years.
And yet, he helped an extraordinary number of people overcome their fear of dogs.
Simply by being himself:
open, joyful, and genuinely pleased to see you.
We miss him dearly, but we are deeply grateful
for what he brought into our lives
and into the lives of so many others.
They say mourning is love that has no way to express itself. There is a lot of love wandering around now…
About the plans that will have to carry us forward:
there is also news I am genuinely excited to share.
I told a bit already in the former newsletter…
For years, students have asked me
whether I would ever create my own self-study book.
I am happy to say that I am now actively working on it.
The book is suitable for learners
from A2 all the way to B2/C1 in one volume.
It is designed as a meaningful complement
to existing materials and fully reflects the way I teach: intuitive, varied, and suitable for different learning styles. Think of it as a language book with the feeling
of a holiday activity book:
structured, but playful and inviting.
This brings me to a small call-out:
The book will include a wide range of illustrations,
so that there is something for everyone.
If you like to make art and would enjoy
seeing your work featured in the book
— work that truly illustrates and strengthens the story —
I would love to hear from you.
The idea is to create a shared journey,
where images, creativity, and different ways of learning
all come together to make Dutch accessible
and enjoyable for everyone.
Even before the book is finished 😉.
As a little extra for those who like hands-on practice,
I’ve also created a free online program
as a way to give your mind a gentle break
while still learning Dutch.
It can generate a PDF of flashcards
that you can fill in yourself,
(and you can also play with them online).
I would love testers!
Make sure your Dutch sentences are checked for accuracy,
meaning, and spelling before you start using the cards.
If you make offline cards (strongly recommended),
draw a picture on the back instead of a translation
(it helps you learn to translate ideas
rather than rely on literal word-for-word translations.
It’s also a relaxing, almost meditative activity,
nice for the holidays,
also good to invite your kids to help you).
Plus, drawing while keeping the Dutch sentence in your head
is a great learning method in itself.
If you’d like tips on how to use your offline cards effectively,
or would like a set on special grammar/vocab themes,
just email me.
So I wish you all a Happy New Year,
carrying fond memories and make new plans.
If learning Dutch is one of those plans,
I would be happy to walk that path with you,
literally!
Warm regards,
Syl
P.S. In January, there is a 2-day workshop at B1–C1 level
for coaches and therapists — only one spot left.
In February, there is a general 4-day workshop
for German speakers at A2–B1 level — two spots left.
If you’re interested, please email me or send a WhatsApp.
Tot ziens!
