Inside Brewster Kids Summer Academy: Ms. Judith Gives Us the Inside Scoop
This week, we sat down with Ms. Judith, our Brewster Kids Summer Academy Coordinator and Brewster Madrid STEAM teacher, to get a first look at what’s in store for Brewster Madrid’s third year of summer programs. From hands-on projects to engaging, skill-building experiences, this year’s program is set to be our most dynamic yet.
But don’t just take our word for it. Hear directly from Ms. Judith below!
1. What’s the most memorable or unexpected moment you’ve seen at the Brewster Kids Summer Academy?
In our program, creativity flows naturally, not just in Art or STEAM, but during playtime too. One of my favorite moments last year was during Water Play, when we introduced paintbrushes to the mix. The school walls became a giant canvas for ephemeral art. The kids were fascinated watching the water change the color of the stone and seeing which areas dried faster. It was a perfect interdisciplinary experience, blending science and art with pure, simple fun.
2. What’s a typical morning like when kids arrive on campus?
The day begins with a warm welcome at the gate, where teachers accompany students to their classrooms. We love using this time to ask about their day and build that essential bond. After dropping off their backpacks and setting out their water bottles, the children head to the playground for curated free-play activities like scavenger hunts or hula-hoop challenges. Finally, we gather for the morning assembly, where we play icebreakers or share a story to ensure everyone starts the day feeling grounded, connected, and ready for adventure.
3. Which activity always gets the biggest reaction from the kids?
It’s hard to pick just one! In Art, tie-dye is always a massive hit; the children are so eager to see their designs come to life. In Sports, the obstacle courses are a favorite as they love testing their own physical limits. However, in STEAM, nothing beats glow-in-the-dark slime or fizzy sand. The chemical reactions and textures always spark a sense of wonder and excitement that spans all age groups.
4. How do the kids usually change from the first day to the last week?
On the first day, it’s normal to see some nerves or hesitation as they navigate a new environment. We make it our mission to help them feel at home, whether they are regular Brewster students or new to the campus. By the end, that initial shyness has transformed into confidence and ear-to-ear smiles. Seeing them walk in like they own the place is incredibly rewarding for us as educators.
5. What’s something that always makes the Kids Summer Academy feel fun and different each year?
We constantly rotate our themes and adapt activities to match the students' evolving interests, which keeps the element of surprise alive. What truly sets us apart is our hands-on approach. Everything is learned through play and experimentation.
6. What do you think surprises students the most when they first join?
I think they are most surprised by how quickly they make meaningful connections. They arrive expecting fun games, but they are often caught off guard by how fast a group of strangers can become a tight-knit team of friends through shared discovery and laughter.
7. What does a full day look like for a student, from start to finish?
A day at Brewster is a perfect balance of energy and focus. After the morning welcome and assembly, students dive into their first rotation of Art, STEAM, or Sports. Following a snack break to recharge, they move into their second activity. Midday, we gather for community-building traditions like camp songs or treasure hunts. Then comes the highlight for many: Water Play! After cooling off and drying, students either head home or to the dining hall. We wrap up the day with choice stations allowing them to follow their own interests until pickup.
8. What would you say to a parent who is considering the Brewster Kids Summer Academy but wants to know if it’s the right fit?
If you want your child to experience the joy of learning through hands-on exploration in a full English immersion environment, then Brewster is the perfect fit. We believe that learning should be an adventure, and our Brewster Kids Summer Academy proves that when children are having fun, their potential for growth is limitless.
Spaces are limited, so we encourage families to register soon if they are interested. If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please contact our Admissions team at mailto:admissions@brewstermadrid.com
