Working with Young Dual Language Learners in Early Childhood Programs

Language has become a most important key and survival tool in our daily lives. We depend so much on language to learn and to communicate with people. Children come from families whose 1st language is different from ours; teachers, children and families all face challenges. As we work together with children who are growing up with more than one language, we learn to honor each other’s 1st language and facilitate each other to experience the power of languages. We will explore milestones as well as individual differences in dual language learning. We will also examine how cultural and linguistic diversity impact our own learning and teaching. Some research studies around second language acquisition will be discussed. Practical strategies that teachers can use in supporting of young dual language learners and their families will be shared.