Support Spanish Learning During Summer Vacation with These Simple, Fun Ideas

Summer is a wonderful time for rest, exploration, and new adventures—but it’s also a perfect opportunity to continue learning in a joyful, low-pressure way. For families with children learning Spanish, summer offers countless ways to nurture language development through play, nature, culture, and connection.

Whether your child is just beginning to speak Spanish or is already fluent, here are several Montessori-inspired ways to support Spanish learning all summer long:

1. Immerse Through Daily Routines

One of the core Montessori principles is that children learn best through real-life experiences. Use daily routines—like setting the table, preparing snacks, or getting dressed—as moments to practice Spanish vocabulary.

• Count out silverware in Spanish.

• Name fruits and vegetables while cooking.

• Use simple commands like “pon los zapatos” (put on your shoes) or “lava tus manos” (wash your hands).

These consistent, everyday interactions help Spanish become a living language, not just something learned in books.

2. Explore Bilingual Books and Music

Summer is made for storytime under trees and dance breaks in the living room. Choose bilingual or Spanish-language books and music your child will love. Look for rhythmic, repetitive books that encourage participation, or favorite songs that teach vocabulary through melody and movement.

Some favorites include:

• Buenas Noches Luna (Goodnight Moon)

• De Colores and other traditional folk songs

• Canticos bilingual books and videos

  
  

3. Create a Nature-Based Word Hunt

Montessori education encourages connection with the natural world—and that can extend to language learning! Go on a nature walk and bring along Spanish vocabulary cards or make a simple scavenger hunt.

Look for items like:

• una flor (a flower)

• una roca (a rock)

• una mariposa (a butterfly)

Make it a game and encourage your child to describe what they see using Spanish colors and sizes.

4. Engage in Hands-On Cultural Experiences

Summer is an excellent time to explore Latin American culture through food, dance, and celebrations. Try making a recipe from a Spanish-speaking country, attend a local cultural event, or create traditional crafts like papel picado.

This type of learning deepens a child’s connection to language through meaningful, joyful experiences.

5. Join a Spanish Immersion Summer Camp

If you're looking for a more structured yet playful way for your child to grow in their Spanish fluency, consider enrolling them in a summer camp that offers full immersion in the language.

We highly recommend Camp Aventura—a Spanish immersion day camp in the D.C. area designed specifically for children to learn and use Spanish through outdoor adventures, art, science, music, and cultural discovery. Camp Aventura offers a nurturing, joyful space that aligns beautifully with Montessori values, helping children feel confident, curious, and connected.

Keep It Joyful and Child-Led

Montessori reminds us to follow the child—and summer is no exception. Allow your child’s interests to guide how you incorporate Spanish at home. Whether they’re fascinated by bugs, love to sing, or want to help in the kitchen, there are natural ways to include Spanish in those moments.

By making Spanish a living part of your child’s summer, you support not only their language development but also their love of learning—and that lasts far beyond vacation.

¡Feliz verano! (Happy summer!)