CPI has custom-developed the Spanish program for the “Family Spanish Language Camp”. On Sunday, the Academic Coordinator administers a placement test – both written and oral.  As such, the groups are placed according to level and age; for example, adults are separated from children and beginners are in a different group than intermediate students.

The classes are from Monday to Friday, 3 hours group classes a day; and 2 private hours a week, for a total of  17 hours of formal classes. The classes consist of topics of grammar and daily conversations derived from the interests of the students, supplemented by engaging, interesting and entertaining oral and written exercises. The primary goal is that participants have relaxing class, and develop confidence in speaking Spanish, no matter what the starting level is. 

The groups are 6 to 8 people, which provide each student the greatest level of interaction with their classmates as well as personalized attention from the professor.  Plus, each student will have personal one-on-one instruction tailored to the student’s specific level and interests. For example, one may focus on specialized Spanish and terminology in the areas of business, social work, law enforcement, politics, species of plants, nutrition and cooking, information technology, education, ecology, environmental, sports, economy and medicine.

With extensive experience teaching families and young people, CPI has developed a specific program for children 12 and under to provide age-appropriate, stimulating language instruction.  Class time is divided into modules with emphasis on basic communication skills, vocabulary and the introduction of grammatical concepts, coupled with art, linguistic games and hands-on learning.

Your language learning is not restricted to the formal classroom setting described above, the highlight of the “Family Spanish Language Camp” is that all additional activities: meals, cooking class, cultural activities etc.—are conducted in Spanish, thus reinforcing and putting  into immediate practice what’s learned in the classroom!  Professors join participants in the planned activities, consistently encouraging the group to learn new vocabulary, explaining the “Tico” way of life through cultural learning moments, or just having casual conversations in Spanish. Take advantage of this unique way to have an immersion experience while at the same time enjoying a well-deserved family vacation.

How might a  typical day map out?  For example, one morning students learn about commands in the classroom;  during the evening cooking class activity the professors  participate alongside the students,  and while helping to cook encourage students to use commands in Spanish “limpie, corte, ponga, cocine -- coma!  Qué rico!”   Or during a dinner out with fellow classmates and instructors you may practice by asking questions about the typical dishes listed on the menu or by placing your order in Spanish.  Only this program can provide such a perfect combination in a family camp -- learning and fun -- all in one!