2 x 3 hour sessions on a Saturday morning. I've just increased days and hours and I'm so tired; with so much to do ... but sessions were interesting and useful and there are a number of strategies I can start to use. Course covered wider context of local and national EAL, plus the need to think about equality and equity The Department for Education considers that if a child is exposed to another language as a young child, they're still considered EAL. It's nothing to do with proficiency. Children need to feel safe, settled, valued and secure according to Maslow's Hierarchy. Their learning is built on what they know (including language), and they should not be expected to cast off their home language and culture as they cross the threshold of a school or setting. If there's no acknowledgement of other languages in the setting and they are "leaving it at the door" - then that's a huge negative implication on their self belief and self worth. What are the difficulties facing EAL children in an Early Years context? Understanding lengthy spoken English ~ Colloquial & idioms (ie. get your skates on!) ~ Lack of opportunity to show what they know ~ Unfamiliarity with approaches to EYs teaching or a mismatch of expectations ~ Misunderstandings due to different cultural experiences ~ Overt and Covert racism. How can I help and support EAL Children? Positive relationships: Body language, tone of voice, consistent and clear language appropriate to what they're engaged in at that time. Repetition of rhymes and stories where context has meaning. Enabling Environments: I am the role model for children and families. Find out about which languages are used, by whom, and when. Sharing their fascinating learning journey with the family. Understanding their daily routines and cultural differences (ie. sleep / feeding). Provide opportunities for independent choices. Effective Practice: I need to consider the grouping and organising of learning opportunities. To identify words and expressions that will fit in with their first hand experience of play and daily routines. Play games, music and look at stories and books. EAL Learners have different needs - not necessarily SEND. The better the child's first language means the better their acquisition of other languages. Resources and Useful Links: https://www.beelingualuk.com/ https://www.milet.co.uk/ https://global-asp.github.io/storybooks-uk/ Free resources http://www.multiculturalmotherhood.com/ Categories:
Training; CPD; EAL; EYFS; Better Bilingual;
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NickyMum to 3, have been providing Early Years care for over 20 years. Let's not sweat the small stuff - hoping to support and inspire others <3 Archives
June 2022
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