Franchises are paving the way for language immersion among children.

By Kristen Denzer, Tierra Encantada

Why language immersion?

It seems like every week there is a new article or study touting the importance of being bilingual. From providing an advantage in the workplace, leading to higher earnings and helping delay the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s — language learning has proven benefits. For children, however, there are additional benefits. Children that know more than one language focus better in the classroom, have higher standardized test scores, increased critical thinking skills and are more adaptable. While it can be difficult for adults to learn a second language, it’s incredibly easy for young children. The first few years of a child’s brain development builds the foundation of future learning making it especially important to start language learning early. Immersion daycares and preschools are the perfect place for this type of learning. Singing and playing are still on the syllabus, but it’s all done in the language of your choice.

The need is there. Access is the problem. 

Due to the rise of social media information, it is easier to access and create connections all over the world. Not just personally, but professionally as well. As the world changes and the United States remains a rich, melting pot of cultures and experiences — being bilingual and multilingual grows to be a necessity. While most parents understand the need for language immersion, access is another story. There are simply not enough language immersion daycares, preschools and schools to fill this demand, and those available experience waiting lists as long as multiple years. Unfortunately, this is not an uncommon problem for parents who need full time childcare.

A solution for families — and franchisees.

This disconnect between need and access is not surprising. Starting a business is not easy. Especially a capital-intensive business like a childcare center. Add on the complication of needing to hire bilingual staff, have bilingual curriculum and embed language immersion in daily operations and it is a non-starter for most. Now, if the resources, training and curriculum are already in place — suddenly it’s achievable. Franchising is providing a path to bring language immersion to communities across the country.  

Tierra Encantada, a rapidly growing Spanish immersion daycare and preschool franchise, is bridging the gap between what parents truly want today and that special something franchisees are searching for. The tremendous demand Tierra Encantada has experienced is reflective of what today’s parents want for their children — and the increasing value parents place on language learning. By franchising, Tierra Encantada is breaking down massive barriers, which allows entrepreneurs to enter into a highly regulated, complicated sector. With turn-key operations and extensive support, Spanish immersion early education can — and will — be brought to communities across the nation. Franchising makes the choice between a “typical” preschool and a Spanish immersion preschool easy for both families and franchisees. 

Kristen Denzer is the Founder and CEO of Tierra Encantada. She has a Bachelor’s in Psychology and Political Science, a Masters in Leadership and is ABD for her PhD in Educational Policy and Administration. In her free time, Kristen enjoys serving on the Women Venture Board of Directors, traveling the world and spending time with her family. Find out more about Tierra Encantada here.