Buy or check out from the library an introductory Spanish textbook. Introductory Spanish books are invaluable for learning basic Spanish words. Written and designed for the beginning language learner, each chapter in a good Spanish textbook will contain a section of new vocabulary words with accompanying visuals. Try Glencoe's introductory Spanish series "¡Buen Viaje!" or "Easy Spanish Step By Step" by Barbara Bregstein. Simply looking at the pictures is helpful, but to really memorize the new vocabulary words, practice with the exercises provided in the textbook. You may need access to the Teacher's Edition for the full answer key.
Watch Spanish-language television. "Telenovelas" are Spanish-language soap operas, and while you might not understand every word right away, the stories shown are pretty universal. Having the visual aid of the characters' body language and tone of voice will also help you pick up basic Spanish words. Pay particular attention to how the characters greet one another at the beginning of scenes for basic conversation-building to add to your repertoire. Watching Spanish-language TV will also help immensely with your pronunciation.
Read children's books in Spanish. This will not only give you a pleasant trip down memory lane, it's a great way to increase your basic vocabulary. Look for Spanish translations of your childhood favorites by authors such as Dr. Seuss. Their widespread availability in both Spanish and English will also make it easy to read each edition side-by-side, so you have a quick reference in English for those times where you might not understand what each word means.
Buy or make a set of flashcards. Never underestimate rote repetition when learning a new language. Flashcards, whether you buy them ready-made or create your own, are convenient and powerful study aids. Making your own is often preferable to pre-fab flashcards, because the simple act of creating the flashcards will help cement the meaning of new words in your mind. Write the Spanish vocabulary word on one side of an index card. On the reverse, draw a visual cue representing the meaning of the word. Avoid using a direct translation approach. This strategy will get you thinking in Spanish, rather than thinking in English and scrambling to remember the Spanish equivalent. Flashcards are versatile: take them with you on your commute, while you wait for the dentist or practice during commercial breaks.
Listen to a Spanish course on tape or CD. If you can afford it, programs such as Rosetta Stone or Michel Thomas' audio courses are renowned for their ease of use and help in building conversation skills and a basic vocabulary. Many colleges and public schools have websites with Spanish exercises or quizzes that you can complete online. Try searching a local university's website for the Spanish department to take advantage of these resources.