When we hear about English language learners in the early
childhood field we usually bring to mind children who were not born in the USA,
or those whose parents are the ones who were born somewhere else and speak a
language different from English. But we may rarely stop and think that all
preschoolers are English language learners (Garcia & Frede, n.d.), since
they all are acquiring the language.
If I had the means to conduct research studies, they
would be related to the importance of hiring more well-qualified bilingual teachers,
because we all need to know how to support language acquisition for ALL
children. At the same time, as early childhood professionals we are aware of
the changing diversity in the early childhood programs, and we should look for
strategies that help children and families to learn the predominant language. In
addition, becoming bilingual teachers helps us to better understand how
children and families may feel when they leave their family environment, in
order to get into another one where their primary language is unspoken. This
transition usually takes place through the early childhood programs and
therefore the importance of hiring staff who better works with them.
Through this research more
professionals in the field would understand the importance of hiring more
well-qualified bilingual teachers by early childhood programs. Besides the benefits
for families and children, it would reflect the program aims to become one of
high-quality.
References
García, E. & Frede, E. (n.d.). Enhancing Policy and
Practice for Young Dual Language Learners: What Is the Research Base? Retrieved
from http://nieer.org/sites/nieer/files/Preschool_English_Language_Learners_Policy_and_Practice.pdf
Caty,
ReplyDeleteWhen I first learned the term dual language learners in one of our previous classes it really opened my eyes to the fact that young children are not only learning a new language, but are also working to learn and master their native language. What a challenge! I observed the benefit of having a bilingual teacher in the classroom when I observed a Jump Start class this summer. She not only bridged language, but also stimulated language in their native language as well. This helped develop a better relationship between teacher and child. Very important topic.
Caty,
ReplyDeleteI agree that more bilingual teachers should be hired in the early childhood field. Language acquisition is critical for all children but especially important for children who are learning a second language even before mastering their native language first. Best of luck with your research.
Crystal