How Do You Learn A Pennsylvania Dutch Language?
Pennsylvania Dutch, sometimes referred to as Pennsylvania German, is a language used by the Amish and Mennonites. It is similar to the German language but not identical. In many Mennonite and Amish households, both English and Pennsylvania Dutch (or Deitsch) is spoken. Learning the language can be difficult because it is spoken by such a close knit group of people. However, it is possible to learn and to even become fluent. Hire a tutor or Pennsylvania Dutch speaker to teach you the basics. Having an actual role model in front of you who can teach you the ins and outs of the language is key to your success. If you cannot afford a private tutor, consider the next step. Purchase books on CD or visit websites online that allow you to listen to the language. There are a number of programs available that will allow you to listen to the language being spoken and actually walk you through the basics. Read poems, passages or even a book that is written in Pennsylvania Dutch and then translated
