Because kids can’t just run rampant during the summer (or, they can, but it’s chaotic), there are summer camps to provide a structured and fun environment. Here’s a selection of French-focused summer camps in and around Washington DC that provide a learning and joyful experience for kids (that also gives parent a nice break).
On the DC side
Alliance Française
The Alliance Française’s summer camps are the only option in Washington D.C.-proper. Registration for classes for kids under 5 years old has just opened, and families can benefit from an early bird discount of $20 off until June 16. For summer camps, registration will close on June 18. Week 6 is already full, but there are places left in all the other weeks. For the teen program, registration will also close on June 18. You must take a placement test (except for absolute beginners) to know in which class to register. 8:30am-3:30pm (2pm-5pm teenagers). $495 per week for 5-11 year olds ($430 for members), $485 for teens ($420 for members). 2142 Wyoming Avenue NW. Website here.
In Maryland
French Academy
French Academy, the school that offers French courses in small groups year round, is offering summer camps in Chevy Chase this summer for kids 5-12 years old. Classes are designed to welcome children at two different levels of mastery: beginners in French and advanced/bilingual. Language learning involves group games, puzzles, and artistic projects. The activities revolve around a weekly theme. 9am-4pm ($490 per week) with daycare possible until 5:30pm (around $130 per week); half day also possible ($290 per week for a half day). Website here.
My French Classes
This year-round Saturday school, a reference for many Francophone parents in the region, also opens its doors in the summer for camps from June 18-July 13. Activities for children range from theatre to sports, science to music, and French is always present: it’s a complete immersion to practice throughout the day, plus a specific daily session to work mastery (reading, grammar, etc.). The children, between 5-15 years old, are grouped by age and according to their level of French. 9am-3:30pm, with possibility of daycare until 6pm ($455 per week). 9525 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD 20814. Bus service available from Washington DC. Website here.
Please note that Rochambeau High School is not organizing a summer camp this summer.
In Virginia
French Academy
French Academy, the same school that’s present in Chevy Chase, offers a summer camp in its Alexandria location in August and with reduced hours. The program includes outdoor games, crafts, and music in total French immersion to work on vocabulary. Children, between 5-12 years old, will be welcomed whatever their level of French. 9am-12pm ($280 per week) Governors Pond Cir, Alexandria VA. Website here.
CommuniKids
Created by parents in the DC region in 2005, this school offers nine one-week summer camps starting at the end of June and going until the end of August. Children must be between 2.5-6 years of age to be admitted to the camp in Falls Church. On the schedule: outdoor adventures and activities centered around cultures and art, all in a full French immersion environment. 9am-3pm full days ($429 a week) or half days 9am-12:30pm ($279). Day care is available from 7am-6pm. 115 Hillwood Ave, Falls Church, VA. Website here.
