Many Languages, Building Connections: Supporting Infants and Toddlers Who are Dual Language Learners

This title provides tried & tested strategies for support the linguistic and cultural development needs of dual language children. All infants and toddlers need experiences that nurture, support, and teach their home language and culture. Language is a vital component of early experiences well before a child can say their first word. Even the most experienced caregiver can feel a bit unsure about meeting the unique needs of infants and toddlers from different language backgrounds. This volume outlines adaptable strategies that caregivers of children up to three need to feel confident that they know how language develops, how cultural differences come into play, and how to assess an individual child's situation to provide appropriate support. From getting families to participate in a child care program to creating nurturing communities that value and support each child's home language while also fostering English acquisition, these helpful strategies will prepare caregivers for the diverse reality they encounter in their work.