A Bilingual Summer at Camp Mákemáke

At Camp Mákemáke, English isn’t just a subject—it’s part of the adventure. From the moment children arrive, the language is woven naturally into every game, activity, and story, creating a full-immersion experience that’s fun, meaningful, and completely supportive.

Throughout the week, all of our games, activities, stories, and instructions are led in English. It’s a fully immersive experience, but never one that leaves kids behind. Whether it’s a forest scavenger hunt, a group art project, or a game of capture the flag, children hear and use English in real-life, meaningful ways. They learn by doing—without pressure, without tests, and always with support.

We don’t expect every child to arrive fluent. Our bilingual staff are always nearby to translate, explain, or step in with a quiet word of encouragement. Children can ask for help in Spanish at any time, and staff will ensure they understand what’s happening. This helps build confidence, independence, and trust.

While our shared events happen in English, we know that during playtime, kids naturally speak Spanish with one another—and that’s welcomed. We’re not here to control how children speak when they’re making friends, inventing games, or giggling in the mud kitchen. Language is part of play, and children often move between Spanish and English in ways that feel natural to them.

To honor that balance, we include a few campfire songs in Spanish, too. These shared moments let every child hear their home language reflected in the camp experience, creating a sense of culture, belonging, and connection. Singing together under the stars—sometimes in English, sometimes in Spanish—is one of the ways we build community.

By the end of the week, most children surprise themselves. They understand more than they expected. They speak more than they thought they could. They follow English instructions, join in songs, and respond with growing ease. It’s not just about learning a language—it’s about gaining confidence, finding your voice, and feeling at home in a new space.

At Camp Mákemáke, all levels of English are welcome. Whether your child is fluent, just beginning, or somewhere in between, they’ll be supported, encouraged, and included. We’re here to create a space where language brings us together, not sets us apart.