Supporting Dual Language Learners

“Teachers should be open to the languages and cultures of their students and create classroom environments that reflect their diversity.”

—Adapted from Teaching Dual Language Learners, by Lisa M. López & Mariela Páez

Early childhood educators and care providers play a critical role in assisting young dual language learners as they begin to understand and use English. Effective programs support children as they acquire English language skills while still respecting and nurturing their home language.

Use the recommended resources on this page to learn essential tips and strategies for boosting the language development of young children learning English—and create an environment that reflects and respects diverse cultural backgrounds.

Articles and other online resources:

8 Tips on Communicating with Young Second-Language Learners (Brookes)

Read this blog post for practical guidance on supporting young children who are learning English while respecting and nurturing their home language.

5 Practical Strategies for Supporting DLLs’ Language and Literacy Skills (Brookes)

From the book Teaching Dual Language Learners, this tip sheet offers 5 strategies you can use to support your students’ language and literacy skills.

The Role of an RTI-based Approach in Addressing the Learning Needs of Young DLLs (Brookes)

In this webinar, learn how to address learning and development of young dual language learners with an RTI-based framework, Recognition & Response for Dual Language Learners.

Learn the Lingo and Support Dual Language Learners (ASHA)

Get definitions of some of the most commonly-used terms you’ll encounter when working with dual language learners.

Explore the Toolkit

• Screening and Assessing Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Children
• Supporting Dual Language Learners
• Understanding and Working with Families
• Creating Culturally Responsive Classrooms and Practices
• Promoting Acceptance and Friendship
• Shareable Quote Graphic Library

Taking Two Languages to Preschool: Supporting Children who are Dual Language Learners (ZERO TO THREE)

Learn some tips on developing strong parent-teacher partnerships that help foster young children’s language skills as well as their connections to family and culture.

Supporting English Language Development when Children Have Little Experience with English (Head Start ECLKC)

Get tips and strategies for supporting English learning when young children have little experience and exposure to English.

The Early Years: Dual Language Learners (WIDA)

This in-depth article provides a wide range of information on young dual language learners, including the benefits of supporting home languages, boosting language development through play, and more.

Early Childhood Educators Need Strategies to Help Dual Language Learners (Council for Professional Recognition)

Good article with some quick tips and links to other resources for early childhood educators who work with young DLLs.

Supporting Children with Disabilities Who Are Also Dual Language Learners (Head Start ECLKC)

Discover myths and facts about children with disabilities who are also dual language learners, and learn ways to support them.