OUR PROGRAMS
INFANT
TODDLER
TODDLER
We create a warm, joyful space where infants feel safe, loved, and understood. Each baby is paired with a primary caregiver who provides consistent, personalized attention and builds a trusting bond with your family.
We introduce baby sign language to help little ones express themselves, and use the Creative Curriculum to spark curiosity and support learning as infants grow into busy toddlers.
TODDLER
TODDLER
TODDLER
For children 12 months to 2.5 years, every day is filled with fun, hands on learning — music and movement, group time, language play, and plenty of sensory exploration indoors and outside.
We provide nutritious meals and snacks prepared fresh on-site, and toddlers enjoy a cozy rest time each afternoon from 12:30–2:00 pm. Parents simply supply diapers and wipes; we take care of the rest.
Our small 1:4 educator to toddler ratio ensures lots of attention, support, and encouragement.
MEET THE OWNER
MS. VANESSA - CEO/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
My journey in early childhood education began as a volunteer at FLICS, working alongside my mother and mentor, Dr. Marilyn Barriera-Manrique, a 2nd grade Spanish teacher. Those early experiences sparked my passion for language, culture, and education, and set the foundation for my lifelong commitment to children and families.
From 2011 to 2017, I helped develop after-school and enrichment programs at FLICS and supported the opening of our first childcare center, the International Child Care Center (ICCC). In 2017, ICCC relocated to Detroit’s Brightmoor neighborhood, where I deepened my commitment to providing accessible, high-quality childcare to the community.
In 2020, I founded the International Language Academy of Detroit, serving infants and toddlers ages 0–2.5. Our program focuses on early language development, including baby sign language, Spanish exposure, and Reggio-inspired learning that supports curiosity and growth from the very start.
Today, my mission extends beyond childcare—it’s about supporting families, creating opportunity, and strengthening the Brightmoor community. I am proud to continue building innovative, culturally rich learning environments and to be working toward a new, state-of-the-art childcare center that will expand access, create jobs, and help Brightmoor’s youngest learners thrive.
CENTER FUN
Our Partners
