Focus on Background Knowledge
Learn ways to build background knowledge in young children—what they know and believe about themselves and the world around them. Explore key research and find out how children ages birth to 5 develop these skills.
Dual Language Learners
These resources offer information and guidance on the needs of children who are acquiring two or more languages at the same time or are learning a second language while developing their first. Besides dual language learner (DLL), other terms that resources may use when referring to these children include bilingual, English language learner (ELL), Limited English Proficient (LEP), English leaner, and children who speak a Language Other Than English (LOTE).
The Policy Statement on Supporting the Development of Children Who Are Dual Language Learners in Early Childhood Programs provides recommendations to early childhood programs that promote the development and learning of young children who are DLLs. It also provides support for language revitalization efforts within tribal early childhood programs.
Find related DLL program assessment resources.
Ready DLL Mobile App
The Ready DLL app offers access to resources and strategies for supporting children who are dual language learners (DLLs). Teachers and caregivers can also learn key words and phrases in seven languages.
Cultural Perspectives in Caregiving: Applying Relationship-Based Practices
Explore this series of vignettes to help you reflect on your own cultural beliefs and assumptions. Apply what you learn about yourself to develop a collaborative and responsive practice in your work with families.
Focus on Book Knowledge and Print Concepts
Learn how to promote the Planned Language Approach's Book Knowledge and Print Concepts in your program. Explore the research and the development trajectory for these skills in children ages birth to 5.
Visual Guide to Dual Language Learners in Head Start Programs
This infographic displays the many languages dual language learners speak in Head Start programs. Discover how being bilingual supports a child's development, learning, and success in life.
Partnering with Families of Children Who Are Dual Language Learners
View this video to learn how Head Start programs can partner with receiving elementary schools to provide stability and consistency for children and families transitioning to kindergarten.
Planned Language Approach: The Big 5 Series
This webinar series provides strategies for implementing the Planned Language Approach's (PLA) Big 5 for ALL.
Special Considerations: Developmental Screening of Children Ages Birth to 5 Who Are Dual Language Learners (DLLs)
Discover key strategies program leaders should consider when screening children who are dual language learners (DLLs).
Dual Language Learners: Considerations and Strategies for Home Visitors
Learn ways to support home visitors who work with families of children who are dual language learners (DLLs). Explore strategies to support DLLs’ learning in the Big Five for All areas of early literacy.
Brilliant Bilingual Babies
Explore this brief to learn how home visitors can support children who are learning more than one language. Find out how a solid foundation in a child’s home language is key to later language success.