It’s funny you mention the math because i hear english is bizarrely efficient as a language

Maybe, but I think it’s mostly just that it’s my native language and I was a voracious reader in my childhood so I got really good at it. I do appreciate the Germanic composite nature, but I didn’t, like, actively choose English.

Given how long it takes you might want to get started tomorrow!

Eh, like I said, that’s a future me problem. I think the “fun” way is going to be learning along with my kids. Start with the basics, consume simple media, immersion, all that. I’m not too worried about it, if I need to supplement with other methods I’ll supplement. But I think the time it takes the kids to become fluent will be long and gradual enough to work for me.