Bilingual Daycare Center Planned

Learning a second language could soon be as easy for children as being cared for while their parents work–or get fit. 

Vamonos, a state-licensed childcare center specializing in bilingual "immersion programs," is looking to open a center within Horsham Athletic Club's existing 3,612-square-foot kids club. Since the gym opened in April 2011, the colorful space has been used to provide childcare to members' children while parents work out.

That will not change, according to Horsham Athletic Club General Manager Doug Steinly.

"We are looking at integrating our current kids club with the daycare," Steinly told Patch. "The members would still have the same usage privileges with the additional benefits of the licensed daycare service and programming."

Steinly said he hopes the center could open "as soon as March," provided approvals are granted.

Vamonos–which opened a Warminster location on Meetinghouse Road in April–requires a special exception from the zoning hearing board in order to open at the 400 Horsham Road location. 

During the Horsham Township Council's meeting on Wednesday, the governing body reviewed the application and offered a neutral position. The application will be heard during Tuesday's zoning hearing board meeting. A decision would likely follow in February.

Vamonos owner/operator Emily Vonder Schmalz, a native Spanish speaker, said her center provides childcare to kids ages 6 months old to age 5.

But, what sets Vamonos apart from others is it's inclusion of Spanish language.

"It exposes them to the second language by using the language throughout the day," she told the council, adding that Vamonos is "providing an opportunity for children and their families to learn Spanish."