Dual Language Learners: Program and Family Support
In this module, explore the four components of effective program and family support of dual language learners.
Dual Language Learners
These resources offer information and guidance on the needs of children who are acquiring two or more languages at the same time or are learning a second language while developing their first. Besides dual language learner (DLL), other terms that resources may use when referring to these children include bilingual, English language learner (ELL), Limited English Proficient (LEP), English leaner, and children who speak a Language Other Than English (LOTE).
The Policy Statement on Supporting the Development of Children Who Are Dual Language Learners in Early Childhood Programs provides recommendations to early childhood programs that promote the development and learning of young children who are DLLs. It also provides support for language revitalization efforts within tribal early childhood programs.
Find related DLL program assessment resources.
Gathering and Using Language Information That Families Share
Find considerations and questions to ask parents and families about their children’s past experiences with language. Explore what can be learned from questions and why the answers matter.
Supports for Classroom Language Models for All Children: Step-by-Step Guide
This resource offers sequenced guidance for programs to use as they implement the recommendations in Classroom Language Models: A Leader's Implementation Manual.
Intentional Language Support for Children Who Are Dual Language Learners
Use this second of three guides to help program staff improve their intentional language support for children who are dual language learners.
Integrating Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Practices to Support Children Who Are Dual Language Learners
Explore this first of three guides designed to support program leaders. Discover ways to help program staff reflect on their own understanding and beliefs about learning and speaking more than one language.
Engaging with Families of Children Who Are Dual Language Learners
In the third of three guides designed to support program leaders, learn ways to improve engagement with the families of children who are dual language learners across your program.
Professional Learning Guides to Support Children Who Are Dual Language Learners
Program leaders can use these guides to develop practices and systems to support the full and effective participation of children who are dual language learners and their families.
Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Express Checkout Worksheet
Use this resource to check whether materials for children and families are culturally and linguistically appropriate.
Transition to Kindergarten: Supporting Children Who Are Dual Language Learners (DLLs)
Discover information and strategies to help Head Start program staff support children who are dual language learners (DLLs) and their families as they make the transition to kindergarten.
Focus on Phonological Awareness
Learn how to use the Planned Language Approach (PLA) to promote phonological awareness for children in your program. Explore the research and the development trajectory for these skills in children ages birth to 5.