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How Can Early Childhood Educators Support Bilingual Language Learners?

Three toddlers play with stacking toys and blocks in classroom as teacher looks on.

Young children who are simultaneously acquiring two or more languages are referred to as dual-language, or bilingual/multilingual learners. In the United States, these learners now comprise roughly one-third of all children aged birth to 3 years old, indicating a growing presence in early childhood education (ECE) programs.

While the advantages of multilingualism, such as enhanced cognitive skills and socio-emotional growth, are widely acknowledged, early childhood educators may wonder how they can best support bilingual language learners. 

ZERO TO THREE experts weigh in on five ways early childhood educators can support bilingual language learners and their families:

Excellent educators are intentional.

To help develop your skills, consider our current offering of ZERO TO THREE Critical Competencies for Infant-Toddler Educators™

Female caregiver plays with two girls and toy dishes.
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