45 Strategies That Support Young Dual Language Learners (PDF)

The number of dual language learners in early childhood classrooms is expanding every year—and teachers often feel underprepared to bridge language barriers and effectively meet these students' learning needs. Help is here in this urgently needed book, a toolbox of today's best strategies for supporting children and families from diverse backgrounds and ensuring the academic and social success of young dual language learners. Early childhood educators will get an invaluable collection of 45 practical, developmentally appropriate strategies for teaching dual language learners (both Spanish speakers and children who speak other languages). Real-world guidance helps teachers apply each strategy in their own classrooms, and the activities, reflection questions, and resources in Spanish will support educators in strengthening their current teaching practices. A much-needed resource for in-service professional development and preservice courses, this timely book will help educators foster the success of inclusive early childhood classrooms and prevent achievement gaps for dual language learners.DISCOVER HOW TOSet up and organize your learning environment to support dual language learnersCreate a diverse classroom community where children’s challenges and needs are anticipatedUse culturally responsive classroom management practices that engage diverse learnersStrengthen social-emotional learning for dual language learnersPromote early academic skills and make learning activities accessible to children of all cultural backgroundsUse music and movement to increase student engagement and boost language developmentPartner with families and engage them in children’s academic and social-emotional learningPRACTICAL MATERIALS: Reinforce your learning with classroom activities; chapter quizzes; reflection questions; Spanish songs, vocabulary, and books for the classroom; lists of additional resources; and a glossary. Sample letters and forms help you communicate with families and evaluate student needs (all forms are photocopiable and available online).