The best ways to learn Dutch and how to stick with it

Learning a foreign language is like opening a doorway to a new world. Dutch, with its musical rhythm and down-to-earth charm, is a language that is definitely worth exploring—whether you're moving abroad, bonding with Dutch-speaking friends, or simply satisfying your curiosity. But how on earth do you stay the course? In this blog, we're going in-depth on the best ways to learn Dutch and how to remain motivated along the way. From online Dutch language courses to daily advice that keeps you moving, we've got everything you need.

Why Learn Dutch,  Anyway?

It's something more than a language. Dutch is your key to appreciating a special European culture, simplifying life if you're resident or employed in the Netherlands or Belgium, and even bridging you closer to German and English if you're an avid language enthusiast. It's spoken by over 23 million, and owing to its proximity to English, it's not as difficult to learn as you may believe.

The Best Ways to Learn Dutch

Now let's discuss what actually works—easy, no-nonsense methods that have you learning Dutch and enjoying it in the process.

1. Begin with Online Dutch Language Courses

One of the best ways to create a solid foundation is through online Dutch language courses. These are formal, beginner-level, and allow you to learn at your own pace.

The Dutch Minds is an excellent example. Their online Dutch language classes are well-planned, engaging, and provide individual guidance. And to top it off, they make studying less boring and more fun.

Benefits of enrolling in Dutch classes online:

• Flexible timetables (learn in your PJs, anyone?)
• Native teachers who really do make grammar exciting
• Interactive videos, quizzes, and authentic conversations
• Progress monitoring to motivate you

2. Add Some Online Dutch Language Lessons

Traditional lessons are excellent—but so are small, online Dutch language lessons you can fit into your schedule. There are plenty of online Dutch language lessons available on YouTube, Spotify, or phone apps.

Do this:

• Catch a 10-minute Dutch lesson on YouTube each morning
• Listen to a Dutch podcast on your walk or commute
• Practice with Memrise or Duolingo in the line

Tip: These informal lessons are ideal for maintaining Dutch in your daily routine.

3. Speak Like a Local—Day One

We understand—talking in a new language is uncomfortable. But believe us, early speaking makes you confident. At The Dutch Minds, speaking is incorporated in the Dutch language course from day one.

Try to talk Dutch even if you mess up. It's the easiest way to learn. Use apps such as Tandem, or talk with classmates while taking your online Dutch course. Even repeating simple phrases aloud helps a lot.

4. Stock Your Vocabulary with Flashcards

Flashcards might be old-fashioned, but they are effective. Apps like Anki and Quizlet allow you to make flashcards and study with smart memory tactics.

Pro tip: Concentrate on the 1,000 most common Dutch words. You'll be amazed how far you can get with it in everyday conversations.

5. Be surrounded by Dutch

You don't need to pack your bags for Amsterdam to surround yourself. Try these:

• Switch your phone language to Dutch
• Follow Dutch social media influencers
• Stream Dutch Netflix series ("Undercover" is a great one!)
• Read simple Dutch books or even comics

Slowly but surely, your brain begins to adjust—and next thing you know, you're picking up on more than you thought you were.

6. Locate Your Dutch-Speaking Team

Individual learning is difficult. Get a Dutch-learning community! Facebook groups, Discord servers, or even Dutch-specific Reddit forums are wonderful places to pose questions, discuss successes, and no longer feel so isolated.

The Dutch Minds has a community of students who share materials, study together, and encourage one another. You may even find yourself with a friend or two along the way.

7. Apply Dutch in Real Situations

Now that you have some words under your belt, it's time to put them into practice:

• Order food in Dutch when you spot a local café
• Label things around your house in Dutch
• Write brief Instagram captions or journal entries in Dutch

The more you practice, the more it feels like second nature.

How to Stick With It (Even on the Tough Days)

Let's be honest—motivation wears off. But developing habits keeps you going. Here's how to continue.

1. Set Fun, Realistic Goals

Rather than saying "I want to be fluent," divide it into bite-sized victories:

• Learn 10 words every day
• Have a brief conversation by week 3
• Watch a complete Dutch movie by month 2

This kind of goal is fun and achievable.

2. Turn Dutch into a Daily Habit

Combine your Dutch practice with an existing activity:

• Study flashcards with your coffee.
• Listen to a podcast during exercise.
• Take your online Dutch course immediately after work. It doesn't feel like work once you make it a habit.

3. Reward Yourself for Progress

Reward yourself when you reach a milestone. Purchased your first Dutch book? Indulge in a posh coffee. Completed an entire module? Have a guilt-free Netflix break.

4. Work with a Friend

Get another person who's learning Dutch. You'll encourage each other, practice speaking, and exchange resources. You can even take online Dutch language classes together.

The Dutch Minds facilitates this by matching students and having live group sessions.

5. Keep It Interesting

Mix it up to keep things new:

• One day, view a Dutch vlog
• Then, read a recipe or a travel piece
• Follow that by exploring a new unit in your Dutch language course

It's all about keeping your brain curious and active.

6. Reflect, Adjust, Repeat

Check in with yourself every few weeks. What's working? What's not? Refer back to past lessons in your online Dutch language classes, watch a video again, or experiment with a new app.

Learning is not linear. The trick is to remain flexible and gentle with yourself.

Why The Dutch Minds is a Terrific Place to Begin?

If you're serious about learning Dutch and want expert guidance, The Dutch Minds offers:

• Beginner through advanced online Dutch language classes
• Conversations in live sessions
• Flexible schedules that work for you
• A genuine community—not just a class

If you want Dutch online classes that are cozy, intimate, and get results, The Dutch Minds could be your new go-to.

Final Thoughts

There is no one-size-fits-all approach—but there are certainly intelligent and entertaining ways to remain consistent. Combine formal online Dutch language lessons, real-life application, and community backing, and you'll not only learn—you'll enjoy the experience.

Begin your language journey with The Dutch Minds and find out just how simple and rewarding it is to learn Dutch.

Let's get started—one word at a time.