As Creole is still a niche language, it can be hard for aspiring Kreyol speakers to know where to start. Here, I brought together a few resources that are a great place to start for anyone trying to learn the basics of Haitian Creole.
Often, the best place to start when learning a new language is to have a strong foundation. It’s much easier to progress and grow once you have the basics down. Because of this, I recommend starting with some kind of beginner course or program in order to get everything down.
Without further ado, Ann Ale!
1. Mango Languages:
Mango Languages is a great place to start your Creole learning process. It’s very fun and interactive and exercises a mix of listening comprehension, reading, and speaking skills. It is a well-rounded beginner course that will keep you coming back for more! As an added bonus, many libraries offer a subscription to Mango Languages for free through having a library card. This was where I started personally and has been instrumental in my journey towards fluency.
2. Pimsleur
What I love about Pimsleur is that the listen and repeat style of it simulates an actual conversation. I am the kind of person who could read all the books and do all the exercises but will forget everything once it’s time to speak with a native speaker. Pimsleur by its very structure helps you gain confidence speaking the language, as it requires you to speak aloud the whole time. You’ll feel empowered to go out and start speaking Creole in no time, which is undoubtedly the best way to learn any language.
3. Live Lingua:
Live Lingua is a very thorough resource that comes with both audio and a free textbook. For those who want a thorough resource completely for free, this is a great place to start. I will note that the interface isn’t as clean or convenient as the other resources on here, and the audio is a little messed up. But the amount and depth of knowledge available here are massive! It will give you a very comprehensive understanding of the language if you give it a chance.
4. Haiti Hub
Haiti Hub is an amazing resource for Haitian Creole learners of all abilities. It is a fully online course, with an active learning community for those serious about learning the language. I will say this option is pricier than all the other options listed here, but still is well worth its value. For those who are serious about learning the language, this would be an incredible place to start. Its learning is based on Creole Made Easy, a popular textbook that teaches Creole in a very accessible format. So if the price tag is a little steep, you can’t go wrong with getting Creole Made Easy and using that to guide your language learning. While other resources on this list are great places to start, Haiti Hub is the total package for those serious about learning Haitian Creole. Though I haven’t taken this program yet, the reviews are incredible and I hope to take it soon. Because its target audience is missionaries, spouses of Haitians, and adoptive parents of Haitians, this program is an excellent way for those serious about the language to learn.
5. How To Creole:
This is a free site that offers all the most important vocabulary and grammar rules in a concise and easy-to-read format. It is completely free and a great way to get familiar with all the rules of the language.
6. Youtube:
There are countless Youtube channels that help beginners learn the ropes of Haitian Creole. You can start by simply looking up “learn creole” on the search bar! If you want a list of my recommended learning videos, check out my playlist by clicking “Youtube” above.
Other Very important Resources:
Sweet Coconuts is a must for any English Speaker looking to learn English. Creole is filled with proverbs and colloquialisms. This sets it apart from other languages because often times people communicate through sayings rather than literally. It’s what makes Kreyol so fascinating, yet at the same time challenging to learn. Some words have completely different meanings depending on how they are used, and often, forms and phrases vary by region. Because of this, a standard Creole to English dictionary or translation service isn’t enough to truly learn the language.
The great thing about Sweet Coconuts is that the owner has taken the time to respond to visitor questions about peculiar phrases of the Haitian language. The result is an amazing resource. Whenever you encounter a phrase or saying that baffles you, this is the first place you should go!
- A Creole – English Dictionary
Nonetheless, having a dictionary in the language you are learning obviously has a place in one’s path to fluency. Whenever you are blanking out on a specific word or phrase, consult the dictionary to expand your vocabulary and strengthen your learning. There is also a picture version of the diction that can be very helpful for new learners.
For more resources and tips to learn Haitian Creole, click here!
