Teaching English Language Learners

by Elizabeth Towne, KAEYC Board Member

This is my third year of teaching 3- to 5-year-olds. It is my first year experiencing English language learners. It has been a challenging learning opportunity for both the children and me while working through the receptive skills needed for understanding both languages. I find myself stretching back to my three years of Spanish in high school for the few words and phrases I scarcely remember.

Here are some tips for teaching English language learners.

1. Help them feel welcome and supported in the classroom. Children and adults understand body language and physical cues. They will understand that you care about them and are happy to see them. A positive relationship is a great start to comprehension.
2. Learn some words and phrases in their home language. This will help with initial problems like seeing if they need to go to the bathroom. It will also allow the child to know their home language has value.
3. Have dual language children translate for the English language learners. This further gives the home language value and allows for peer coaching.
4. Model what you would like the children to do. Children are able to imitate actions and they will understand expectations if they are shown what to do. This will help them transition with the group and learn the routine of the classroom.

There are many resources to learning a new language. There are several free apps that can be downloaded that teach different languages (i.e. Duolingo, Memrise, Mango Languages and Busuu). I'm currently using the app Duolingo to refresh my Spanish. There are community classes that offer language courses that are reasonably priced. There are also college courses and learning software that can also be utilized, but are often more pricey. Remember to practice any new language so it will remain in your active memory. Seek out professional support and guidance, but also use the children's family as a first resource!