Smart to Learn a Language this Summer
As summer break arrives, many parents begin to search for meaningful ways to keep their children engaged — beyond camps and screen time. One increasingly popular and research-backed option? Learning a new language.
Studies show that children who start learning a second language early develop stronger cognitive abilities, including improved memory, problem-solving skills, and even increased creativity. According to the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages, students who study a second language perform better on standardized tests and show greater mental flexibility. And researchers at Penn State have found that the earlier children start language learning, the greater their long-term retention.
But for many busy families, traditional classroom-style language learning isn’t realistic — especially in the summer months when routines are unpredictable. That’s where flexible, interactive approaches can make a difference.
“Incorporating language learning into a child’s summer doesn’t have to be complicated,” says Min Kim, founder of InWorld School, a digital language learning platform designed for young and adult learners. “It can be fun, culturally enriching, and tailored to fit the rhythm of a relaxed summer schedule.”
Kim, a parent herself, created the program to offer children a more engaging and meaningful way to learn languages. She believes that learning a second language goes beyond academics — it fosters identity, connection, and a deeper understanding of the world.
“When children learn another language, they start to see the world through new eyes. They gain empathy, cultural curiosity, and a sense of global citizenship. That’s something we believe should be accessible to all families,” Kim explains.
For students especially ages 9-14, this is a critical developmental window when language learning is still intuitive and highly effective. Summer provides a unique opportunity to build on school-year learning or explore a new language from scratch — without the pressures of homework or rigid schedules.
Parents looking to support summer language learning should seek programs that prioritize:
Conversational practice over repetitive memorization
Cultural insights alongside vocabulary
Interactive tools, like pronunciation playback or real-world listening
Flexibility to match their family’s summer plans
Whether it’s Spanish, Korean, French, or English, exposure to a new language during summer can strengthen not just communication skills — but also confidence and curiosity.
As Kim adds, “We want kids to feel like they’re not just learning a subject — they’re stepping into a new world.”
Written byTaylor L. Cole, APR, TV Host, and PR Consultant. You can follow her at @TravelwithTLC
