Many families want their children to learn Spanish early—but don’t always have access to strong Spanish programs at school. Limited class time, lack of immersion, or no Spanish option at all can make it challenging for kids to build real language skills.
In a recent conversation with Daniel Fischer, Chief Operating Officer of Calico Spanish, we learned how families—especially those with elementary-age children—can use Calico Spanish as a practical, engaging way to introduce both Spanish language and culture at home.
What Is Calico Spanish?
Calico Spanish is a standards-based Spanish curriculum designed for elementary learners. Originally developed in 2008 for use in elementary schools, the program has expanded to support:
- Homeschool families
- Families supplementing school-based Spanish programs
- Children with little to no prior exposure to Spanish
The curriculum aligns with ACTFL language standards, guiding learners from beginner novice-low to novice-mid proficiency—meaning students begin to understand and participate in basic Spanish conversations.
Who Is the Curriculum Designed For?
Calico Spanish is ideal for:
- Elementary-age learners
- Students starting with little or no Spanish
- Families who want a structured, guided curriculum
It can also complement:
- Dual-language or bilingual programs
- Families preparing for Spanish immersion experiences
- Parents who want cultural exposure included alongside language learning
While the curriculum may be too basic for some advanced bilingual learners, it’s widely used in bilingual settings because of its strong focus on culture and connections, not just vocabulary.
Parent Involvement: What to Expect
A major feature of Calico Spanish is parent-led instruction.
What Parents Should Know:
- Lessons are designed to be guided by adults.
- Most lessons run 20–30 minutes.
- Parents help keep kids accountable and guide learning in real time.
Do Parents Need to Speak Spanish?
No!
Calico Spanish includes:
- Clear lesson plans
- Audio and video support
- Resources designed for parents and teachers who don’t speak Spanish
This makes it accessible even for families where parents learn alongside their children.
What Does a Typical Lesson Look Like?
Calico Spanish lessons follow a structured flow:
- Can-Do Statements
These tell students what they should be able to do by the end of the lesson. - Input Activities
- Video stories
- Music videos
- Comic-style storytelling
- Guided Practice (Output)
- Speaking and repetition
- Group activities
- On-paper worksheets
The multimodal approach supports comprehension by engaging kids in listening, speaking, reading, and cultural context.
How Is Calico Different from Traditional Apps?
Unlike typical language apps, Calico Spanish:
- Uses multiple modes of learning, not just games or quizzes
- Exposes students to Spanish in context, with culture
- Includes stories and characters that reinforce language naturally
- Encourages real-world understanding, not just memorization
Apps may be fun for drills, but Calico’s approach builds a deeper foundation in language and cultural appreciation.
Pricing, Access, and Family Use
Calico Spanish offers pricing designed to be affordable for families:
- Annual subscription: $99/year
- Monthly option: $19/month
🎉 Exclusive Discount for the Common Ground Community
Use code CGI15 at checkout to receive 15% off your Calico Spanish purchase!
This subscription:
- Covers all levels of the curriculum
- Works for the whole family
- Includes downloadable and printable content
- Supports learners from kindergarten through sixth grade
Great for Immersion Prep
If your family is planning a Spanish immersion trip, Calico Spanish can be an excellent way to prepare:
- Introduces basic vocabulary
- Builds listening confidence
- Exposes kids to cultural contexts
- Creates momentum before travel
Many families use Calico at home as a springboard for future immersion experiences.
🌎 Ready to get started?
Click HERE and use code CGI15 for 15% off your subscription — a great way to begin your family’s Spanish learning journey together.
