Home language support is the foundation for developing English language skills. Today’s early childhood staff must be prepared to enhance experiences for a growing number of young children who are learning their home languages and English. We can promote positive experiences for these children by holding high expectations and emphasizing their strengths, including cultural and linguistic strengths. We also provide children and their families with the individualized learning supports necessary to succeed in school. All early childhood program staff want to understand what young dual language learners (DLLs) need in order to thrive in Head Start and beyond. These DLL Toolkit resources give teachers, caregivers, and family services staff support to foster the learning and development of young children.
The new framework is designed to show the continuum of learning of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. It is grounded in comprehensive research around what young children should know and be able to do during their early years.
Advancing School Readiness with the Office of Head Start's Multicultural Principles is a professional development tool designed to support programs in establishing culturally and linguistically competent systems and services. These resources guide staff in using culturally responsive practices when supporting children's progress toward school readiness.
Using Mariposa, Mariposa (Butterfly, Butterfly) to Promote Dialogic Reading: A Powerful Way to Encourage Language Development in One or More Languages
Dialogic reading strategies are among the most powerful techniques adults can use to promote children’s language and literacy development. Teaching teams will learn techniques for encouraging language development in one or more languages.
Emergency Preparedness Tip Sheets
Community partners work effectively with preschools to design after-school events that incorporate storytelling and other Native Indian customs. These family-focused events are foundational to enhancing learning and building family resources to support the achievement of Native American children. This article presents effective strategies and the benefits that result from focusing on building family, school, and community relationships.
Health Services that Impact School Readiness
Understanding and Choosing Assessments and Developmental Screeners for Young Children Ages 3-5: Profiles of Selected Measures
Use this document to understand and choose assessments and developmental screeners for 3-5-years old children.
Every Head Start and Early Head Start program is required to develop a plan of action to meet desired outcomes of school readiness, family engagement, professional development), curriculum, assessment, and teaching practice. A key part of this plan is to make sure teachers, home visitors, and family child care providers intentionally support children’s progress. For this to happen, systems and services must come together as early as possible.
Use these guides to help make informed decisions about choosing a preschool curriculum and assuring high-quality implementation of the curriculum.