Wilmington Bilingual Preschool sets up students for success with a second language

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A Cape Fear area preschool is equipping students with tools to succeed in a second language.  

It’s pretty impressive, these kids range from ages one to six. English is their first language but they’re on the track to speaking Spanish fluently. 

“All of the research shows that the best way to achieve that language proficiency is to be immersed in the language. So, for that reason once they cross our doors and come in here, everything is in Spanish,” Wilmington Bilingual Preschool Director and Owner Ayodele Mellor said. 

Wilmington Bilingual Preschool is located just off S. College Road. It’s a 100% Spanish immersion preschool that offers everything a traditional preschool does, except Spanish is incorporated into all daily activities.  

Ayodele Mellor is the Owner and Director of Wilmington Bilingual Preschool. She said it’s better for children to learn a language at this age because they have such a flexible mind.  

“It’s just incredible to see the children’s language development. It’s amazing to watch them come in here, a lot of them with no Spanish at all, and become super comfortable with the language.” Mellor said. 

Mellor described a typical day in the classroom. Children play, read books, and sing songs, except it is in Spanish. 

Mellor said many families choose to continue their child’s second language learning by enrolling at International School at Gregory once they’ve graduated from the preschool. Gregory is a K-8 school that practices dual language immersion in New Hanover County. 

The preschool also has a second location off Market Street. It’s a half day school that practices the same principles.