Description text Isabella & Ferdinand provides thematic instruction and lesson planning designed specifically for the classroom. Each session is centered around a cultural theme related to Spain and Latin America. These themes are explored through targeted learning techniques, taking into account various learning styles, age groups, and proficiency levels. Research consistently shows that this is one of the most effective methods for teaching children a new language.

In the fall session, our central cultural theme is the Golden Age of Spain. We begin in Spain, where students will learn about flamenco, the letter “Ñ”, paella, and the adventures of Don Quixote and his molinos (windmills). We then set sail on the historic voyage of Christopher Columbus to the Americas, commissioned by Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand of Spain. Our journey first takes us to the Dominican Republic, where we encounter the Taíno Indians and explore the discoveries made by Spanish explorers on the island.

Next, we travel to Mexico alongside Hernán Cortés, where students will immerse themselves in Aztec culture through an interactive Aztec market. Our adventures then return to Spain, where we explore the age of knights in shining armor, royal courts, and the exquisite paintings of Diego Velázquez, including the iconic Las Meninas.

In the winter session, we travel to South America with Isabella & Ferdinand passports in hand. Students will climb the Inca Trail, discover emeralds and coffee in Colombia, enjoy the music of Celia Cruz in Cuba, and learn about the sugar cane refinement process, among other cultural highlights.

In the spring, we celebrate the “Cultural Heroes” of the Spanish-speaking world. Students will be introduced to artists such as Pablo Picasso, Diego Rivera, and Frida Kahlo, as well as writers like Miguel de Cervantes, Rubén Darío, and Rafael Pombo.

Our themes are designed around meaningful, hands-on experiences with the Spanish language and culture-specific tasks. These activities help prepare students to use Spanish in real-world contexts beyond the classroom. Brain research continues to support this approach as an engaging and effective way for children to acquire language skills.

Not at all! We make even topics like 16th-century Spain fun and engaging. Our approach is hands-on, incorporating music, role-playing, games, and singing into every class. We aim to transport children to another world by immersing them in the beauty and richness of Spanish and Latin American culture—all while practicing sentence structure, oral grammar, and building toward real conversation.

Absolutely! Young children are natural language learners. In fact, early childhood is one of the best times to begin learning a second language. Research shows that the human brain is especially receptive to linguistic development between birth and pre-adolescence. Children who begin learning a language before adolescence are significantly more likely to develop native-like pronunciation and fluency (Strozer, 1994).

Starting Spanish at age four gives children a strong foundation for long-term fluency. When language instruction begins early and continues through high school and beyond, students are far more likely to achieve advanced proficiency—something that’s often difficult with late-start programs.

At Isabella & Ferdinand Spanish Language Adventures, we specialize in teaching Spanish to young children through immersive, play-based learning. Our teachers are highly trained in our proven methodology and bring a deep love of language and culture to every classroom.

Our curriculum is focused on conversation, pronunciation, and correct grammar, all delivered in a fun and engaging way. We use full Spanish immersion—no translations, only Spanish is spoken in class. For children new to Spanish, we encourage them to relax and enjoy the process. Through visuals, gestures, music, storytelling, and expression, students naturally absorb the language. First-time learners quickly grow comfortable and begin understanding and using Spanish with confidence.

Whether your child is brand new to Spanish or already has some exposure, our immersive environment helps them thrive linguistically and culturally.

We understand that families are thoughtful about educational investments, and we truly believe our program offers exceptional value. Our class pricing is competitive with other premium enrichment programs in the DC and Miami areas. However, what sets us apart is the unparalleled quality of our Spanish language instruction and the unique cultural experience we provide.

Unlike many other programs, every class is co-taught by two native Spanish-speaking instructors, one of whom is a conservatory-trained musician—a standard we never compromise. Our small class sizes (maintaining a 1:5–6 teacher-student ratio) ensure that each child receives personalized attention. Our teachers are not only fluent but also culturally knowledgeable and deeply passionate about Spanish and Latin American heritage. If an instructor doesn’t share our enthusiasm for cultural icons like Rafael Pombo, Pablo Picasso, or Don Quixote—they simply don’t teach for us!

We focus on linguistic excellence, cultural proficiency, and building confidence in young language learners. Our goal is for each child to feel seen, supported, and encouraged to speak when they’re ready. Our immersive, play-based curriculum is original, engaging, and designed to foster both fluency and a lifelong love of the Spanish language.

Beyond the classroom, we also offer exclusive cultural and educational events for our students and their families—completely in Spanish. These events extend learning outside the classroom and help reinforce key cultural and linguistic topics in a fun, real-world context.

Some of our past events have included:

• A family trip to the Washington Ballet’s performance of Don Quixote, featuring center orchestra seating, a backstage tour in both English and Spanish led by Artistic Director Septime Webre, and a chance to meet company dancers at intermission. Leading up to the performance, students explored the story in class and learned a special song about Don Quixote and Sancho Panza.

• A private concert by celebrated cellist Aaron… (continue this section with details if you’d like me to help draft the rest!)

Location: Horace Mann ES 4430 Newark Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20016
Parking is available.

Parents should drop off their children at the entrance and sign the attendance sheet. Our teachers will be waiting at the main entrance.

You can find our course schedule here. If your class is private or a trial session, please confirm the date via email, or our team will contact you directly to confirm the details.

Doubts? Call us: 202-450-1940

• Interactive Classes – Learn Spanish in a fun and engaging way.

• Cultural Immersion – Explore Hispanic culture through activities and events.

• Supportive Community – A welcoming space for all language learners.

Usually, nothing is required – we provide everything. We’ll notify you if any special items are needed (e.g., costume pieces, project materials, or snacks).

We send regular newsletters to keep you updated. Additionally, you can always contact us via email or phone if you have any specific questions or concerns.

Yes! Our teachers provide regular feedback and are happy to schedule short check-ins if you'd like a more detailed update on your child’s progress.

There is no mandatory homework, but we do send home optional ideas to help your child continue engaging with Spanish in a fun and natural way.

Please refer to our Service Policy. If your child misses a class, you can email us, and we will do our best to arrange a makeup session or alternative activity.

For our Baby Barcelona (toddlers) classes, parents must attend with their children. For other classes, we typically do not allow parents in the classroom to foster immersion, but we do invite families to participate in our special cultural events.