To upgrade from A2, focus on content made for native speakers that you can mostly follow: Dutch Netflix originals with Dutch subtitles, podcasts for learners and native shows, and books you already know in translation. Combine this with daily speaking practice, because input alone won't fix the switching-to-English problem.

Watch: On Netflix, try Dutch originals like Undercover, Ferry, The Twelve, or Ares. They are mature but dialogue-heavy. Use Dutch subtitles (not English) and rewatch scenes. For lighter options, Anne+ or Mocro Maffia (harder). On Prime, search for Dutch films or European co-productions with Dutch audio. Avoid children's shows; they bore you and use simplified language that won't stretch you.

Listen: Podcasts are ideal for commutes. Start with Zeg het in het Nederlands (for learners) or Een Beetje Nederlands (A2-B1). For native speed, try De Correspondent or NRC Vandaag. Don't worry if you miss 30%; focus on gist. Re-listen to episodes.

Read: Skip children's books. Read translations of books you know: Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, or popular thrillers. Also try Jip en Janneke only if you want nostalgia, but better: short stories by Dutch authors like De Avonden (too hard) or Kaas by Willem Elsschot (B1). For non-fiction, read news articles from NOS or De Telegraaf with a dictionary.

Speak: The switching to English happens because people want efficiency. Try these: (1) Start conversations in Dutch with a clear signal: "Ik oefen Nederlands, mag ik in het Nederlands antwoorden?" (2) If they switch, continue in Dutch. (3) Find a taalmaatje via libraries or online exchanges. (4) Record yourself and shadow native audio.

Next steps: Set a weekly schedule: 3 hours watching, 2 hours listening, 1 hour reading, 2 hours speaking. Use apps like NPO Start for Dutch TV. For citizenship, focus on A2-B1 speaking and listening. Track progress with a notebook of new words. Be patient; fluency takes time, but immersion works.

Honest tradeoff: Native shows are hard at first. You will pause a lot. That's normal. Don't wait until you understand everything. Start now, and use subtitles as training wheels. If you want structured help, consider a tutor for conversation. Dutch Fluency comes from consistent, slightly uncomfortable practice.