ChiCeLaCu offers a long-term curriculum, from preschool to 6th grade, taught by experienced educators who are native Spanish speakers. We meet the language needs of children who are native or fluent speakers, those who have varying levels of language proficiency, and children who are completely new to the language. The curriculum, whether for native speakers or language learners, combines traditional classroom learning with the performing and visual arts. In addition, there is a strong cultural component that exposes children to various Latin American cultures and the many cultures represented in our students.

Results depend on each child, the program, and their level of exposure to the language. Our experience indicates that a long-term curriculum of at least 3–4 consecutive years is necessary for children to reach a high level of Spanish proficiency. Typically, children become familiar with the language in the first year of the program, with their comprehension exceeding their verbal skills. Students improve and gain greater confidence in the language as they progress through the years. We recommend that if possible, a child participate in our programs at least 2 to 3 days a week during the academic year and in our camps during the summer. 

There is always a period of adjustment. From the start, we engage students with fun and very visual and interactive activities. Children are evaluated and quickly placed with others of similar language exposure and abilities. Our many years of experience indicate that children assimilate quickly to this environment and, in less than two months, begin to feel more comfortable and confident among peers and with the language. We build a “linguistic bridge” by emphasizing that it’s always more fun when we learn and play together. Parents can help by being patient and enthusiastic about their child’s participation in the program.

There are many ways in which parents can support their children in their language journey.

• Help with homework when possible
• Always encourage their children’s efforts
• Practice the language with them
• Speak Spanish at home 
• Volunteer in the classroom and participate in organized events

Learning another language takes time and dedication, but the benefits are endless. Our goal is to advance children’s academic and emotional growth through fun and effective Spanish immersion programs that encourage self-expression, creativity, and collaboration. In partnership with parents and schools, we are continuously striving to nurture strong, determined, and proud global citizens who respect and appreciate diversity and who want to preserve their cultural heritage and language. Children who finish our program not only gain very valuable life skills but are also ready to take advanced Spanish classes in middle school and high school.

Children who speak Spanish will learn to read and write following a language curriculum similar to those used in Latin America. We work with each child to improve grammar, vocabulary, writing, and conversational skills. Not only will their Spanish improve, but they will also gain greater respect and appreciation for their own cultural heritage and language, not to mention become part of the wonderful and inclusive ChiCeLaCu community!

ChiCeLaCu! partners with private and public schools to bring Spanish classes to their communities, either as a before- or after-school enrichment option or as part of their curriculum. School support is necessary for the successful implementation of the program. ChiCeLaCu! handles all administrative aspects of the program while the school agrees to offer the appropriate classroom space. If you are a private or public school interested in learning more about the program, please email us at info@chicelacu.com.

ChiCeLaCu! is not a daycare center. This is a Spanish learning center with a focused academic curriculum. While we make learning Spanish fun and engage our students with dynamic and interactive strategies, all programs are intended for families who are truly committed to having their children learn the language.

• ChiCeLaCu! was the first center in Northern Virginia to specialize in Spanish and has over 15 years of experience offering Spanish immersion programs.
• We offer a highly effective and dynamic curriculum for both native speakers and language learners.
• ChiCeLaCu has developed a variety of supporting materials and publications based on 15 years of classroom experience.  
• We operate Monday through Saturday and offer a variety of in-person and online programs for children from  Pre-K to 6th grades
• Our teachers are experienced and very creative educators who combine the arts with innovative and traditional classroom strategies to make learning Spanish a fun, unique, and effective experience.

To begin the admissions and registration process, please contact ChiCeLaCu at info@chicelacu.com or call 571-210-0161