Bilingualism in Action: How We Approach Language at Forbes Academy

At Forbes Academy, we believe language is more than just vocabulary and grammar. It’s a bridge to culture, connection, and confidence. Whether your child already hears Spanish at home or is just starting to recognize the rhythms of a second language, they’ll be met with joyful, immersive opportunities to explore language at their own pace with no pressure, no flashcards, and no awkward drills. Just natural exposure, real-world context, and meaningful conversation.

Why Bilingualism Matters

The benefits of learning a second language go far beyond the classroom. Research shows that bilingual children often experience:

• Greater cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills

• Stronger memory and attention span

• Higher cultural awareness and empathy

• Confidence communicating across cultures and communities

But at Forbes, bilingualism isn’t just about brain development. It’s about belonging. We want every child to know: whether they speak one language, two, or are just learning, their voice matters.

Montessori Wisdom on Language

“We must clearly understand that when we give the child the name of something, we are giving him the key to understanding it.”  — Dr. Maria Montessori

Language, in the Montessori view, is not just about naming things. It’s about understanding the world and your place in it. Our bilingual model invites children to make deeper connections through both language and meaning.

Our Bilingual Model: Montessori + Meaningful Exposure

We don’t use flashcards or forced repetition. Instead, we follow the child, offering developmentally appropriate Spanish language experiences that meet them where they are.

• In Toddler and Primary, we focus on conversational exposure - songs, routines, and vocabulary naturally spoken throughout the day.

• In Elementary, we begin layering in reading, writing, cultural study, and guided Spanish lessons that support emerging biliteracy.

• Across all levels, bilingualism is not a separate subject - it’s integrated into the environment and daily experiences.

We’re not chasing fluency. We’re building familiarity, cultural curiosity, and a lifelong comfort with multiple languages. That is bilingualism in action.

What It Looks Like Day-to-Day

Here’s how bilingualism comes to life in our classrooms:

• A toddler hearing “Vamos a lavarnos las manos” before snack time

• A Primary student labeling their mesa (table), silla (chair), and pintura (paint) during work time

• An Elementary class reading bilingual storybooks together

• Children learning about Día de los Muertos through art, food, and storytelling

• Spanish songs, greetings, and transitions sprinkled throughout the day

Language learning at Forbes isn’t separate. It’s integrated. It’s embedded into the fabric of our prepared environment, just like everything else we do. Because language isn’t just taught - it’s lived.

To speak, to sing, to express. These are the natural movements of the child. And through music, the child learns the beauty of many languages.

Inclusive, Accessible, and Non-Intimidating

We also know that families come to us with many different relationships to language. Some speak Spanish at home, some are brand new to it, and some are reconnecting with heritage languages they didn’t grow up speaking. That’s why we take an accessible and respectful approach to bilingualism:

• No pressure to perform

• No “correct” accent required

• No separating children by ability

• Just consistent, joyful exposure and gentle invitations to participate

Our program is intentionally inclusive and non-intimidating. We meet children (and families) where they are. No testing. No tracking. Just a warm, open invitation into a bilingual world where every child can participate and grow. Whether your family speaks Spanish fluently or you’re learning alongside your child, you are welcome here.

Parent Tip: Language at Home (Even if You Don’t Speak Spanish!)

"Language is the road map of a culture. It tells you where its people come from and where they are going."  — Rita Mae Brown

You don’t need to be bilingual to support your child’s bilingual journey! Try these simple activities at home:

• Pick a “word of the week” in Spanish and use it around the house. (Example: agua = water)

• Listen to Spanish music during car rides - try artists like 123 Andrés or Selena Quintanilla-Perez

• Read bilingual children’s books together (try “Abuela” by Arthur Dorros or “Fiesta Babies” by Carmen Tafolla).

• Let your child “teach” you some of the words they’re learning. It boosts confidence and memory!

The goal? Keep language playful, light, and connected to daily life.

An Invitation to Belong

At Forbes Academy, our bilingual model reflects the kind of world we want our children to grow up in: curious, connected, and culturally fluent.

We’re proud to offer a space where language is not only taught, it’s felt, spoken, sung, and lived.

Pre-enrollment is open, and we’d love to talk with you more about how language and learning come together at Forbes. 💜