We recommend starting with some classes when you are a total beginner, just to get a feel for the language and its structures. But then, the trick is to make sure you use your new language skills outside of the classroom, too!
Whether you’re ordering a coffee, asking for directions, or attending local events, practicing the Dutch opens doors to meaningful interactions, levels up your language skills, and helps you feel more at home.
Remember, every bit of practice helps, and making mistakes is just part of the journey!
Dedicated Options for Practicing Dutch in Leuven
For those who prefer structured learning environments, Leuven offers a range of dedicated opportunities to practice Dutch. These sessions are designed to help you improve your skills systematically and with (expert) guidance.
- Kom Binnen: Dutch conversation tables around Leuven- almost daily
- Bab(b)el: Conversation tables in lots of languages at IHL - monthly
- Samen lezen: Reading and discussion group at the library - monthly
- Oefensessies: Practice sessions at de Nomade for those just starting or waiting for classes - 2x per week
- Leuven Language Buddies: Facebook group organizing language meet-ups - irregular
- Bite of Dutch (Broodje Vlaams): Practice informal Dutch online - 2x per month
- Leesmaatjes buurtwerk ’t Lampeke: Reading support via buddies for kids and parents - as agreed with buddy
- Nederlands voor ouders: Meet-ups for parents enrolled in Ligo courses - weekly
- Nederlands praatcafé: Conversation group for parents - Fridays
- Taalkriebels Koala: Conversation group for pregnant moms and parents with toddlers at 2x locations - Weekly
- Kom eens buiten met je Nederlands! Practice sessions organized by CVO Volt
Practicing Dutch in your Free Time in Leuven
Prefer a more relaxed approach? You can also practice Dutch in your leisure time by engaging in fun social activities. These informal opportunities let you build your confidence while enjoying everyday life in Leuven. We've listed a few of the options we know about, but plenty of the sports and social clubs around Leuven are open to supporting language learners - so just ask, usually we find locals are delighted to help people learn!
- Babbel & Wandel: Go for a walk and a chat in and around Leuven - monthly
- Buurtkoor Vaartkom: Join the choir to sing together - monthly
- OKAN Leisure activities: Activities for 12-18 year olds - Wednesday and Thursday afternoons
- OHL World Team: Football training - weekly
- Mama Mundi: Mom's group at Huis van het Kind - weekly
- ROOTS: Get together for anyone from elsewhere (16+) - Friday evenings
- Creatief Atelier: Creative excursions run by Ligo - weekly
- Fietsschool Leuven: Learn to bike in Leuven - regular sign-ups
Practicing Dutch in Flemish Brabant
If you’re outside the Leuven area, check with local libraries, community centers, or online groups for Dutch language resources near you.
The website ‘Nederlands oefenen in Vlaams-Brabant’ is a good starting point to get an overview of the different kinds of activities, both online and offline, you can undertake in the province of Flemish Brabant to practice your Dutch.
Finding Resources for Learning Dutch
The public library of Leuven (de Bib) supports people who want to practice Dutch in several ways, beyond books and magazines, they offer a variety of options to support language learning. For more information, visit the library and inquire about the "Taalpunt".
The city of Leuven publishes its offer for Practicing your Dutch speaking skills in Leuven on their website (make sure to stay on the Dutch version of this page, as you will see more opportunities than on the English page!)
And did you know the national broadcaster VRT has a free streaming platform where you can access local TV - a great way to practice listening comprehension and learn different accents (top tip: start with the subtitles on in Dutch until you are used to the accents!)
Keep it up!
Learning Dutch is an exciting journey that helps you connect with the local culture, meet new people, and feel truly at home. Whether you choose formal lessons, informal practice, or a mix of both, every step you take brings you closer to fluency.
Try to speak Dutch as much as possible in your daily life (in shops, restaurants, at work…) and ask people to speak Dutch with you. If they switch to English you can always tell them that you are learning and want to practice, most people will happily oblige! :)
Wherever you are, the key is to stay curious, keep practicing, and enjoy the process.
Veel succes!
