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Learning a new language can be difficult.  It takes a lot of hard work and dedication.  The length of time it takes to learn a new language is dependent on a person’s ability, literacy skills, natural abilities, commitment to learning the new language, and whether or not they are in an intensive English program.  There are five stages that each … Read More

Vocabulary development begins from the minute children are born, and is a critical part of children’s overall development.  Vocabulary skills are the foundation of communication, as well as a way to understand and express feelings.  Additionally, vocabulary skills support problem solving, thinking, and the ability to develop and nurture relationships.  Developing vocabulary skills are the basis for learning to speak, … Read More

When older kids start to read independently parents oftentimes stop reading to and with them.  Many parents think that by this age, their older kids can read on their own, and now longer need their help with reading.  However, parents who stop reading to and with their older kids miss out on important opportunities to understand their offspring, gauge their … Read More

Emergent bilinguals is a term that is used to refer to what educators call English Language Learners (ELLs), and what the federal government call Limited English Proficient students (LEPs).  Some researchers believe that labeling immigrant students as ELLs or LEPs perpetuates inequities in the education and academic success of this student population.  They believe that these labels negate the notion … Read More

The field of language acquisition is complex and dynamic.  For decades, research efforts sought to find commonalities in acquisition and sequences of development.  These terms refer to varying grammatical structures and the regular patterns within a given morphosyntactic domain.  In recent years, researchers have begun to believe that language competency isn’t solely made up of grammatical knowledge, but it is … Read More

Parents and teachers are not usually thought of in the traditional context of leaders.  However, both, parents and teachers, have a huge impact on the lives and education of children in the school system.  Therefore, parents and teachers can work together as school leaders. Parents as Leaders One of the most critical leadership functions within any society is effective parenting. … Read More

For many, adolescence is filled with insecurity, self-doubt, and questionable body image issues.  For English Language Learners (ELLs) insecurity and self-doubt can be stronger, as they are trying to acculturate to a new culture and   Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to help your teen build his/her self-esteem. Read on to learn 5 strategies that will help to … Read More

Dual language children’s books are advantageous because they simultaneously  help children learn two languages proficiently.  When children read books in their native language, along with a second language, it helps clarify the meaning of words.  Dual language books are an unintimidating way for kids to learn a new language, so that they can move on to more difficult texts.  It … Read More

Biliteracy is a student’s ability to proficiently read and write in two languages.  Research demonstrates that the most effective route to biliteracy for English Language Learners (ELLs) in the English as a Second Language (ESL) setting is learning in the child’s native language.  Further, literacy knowledge in a child’s first language helps to form a solid foundation of skills and … Read More

Latino Holiday The United States is rich in many cultural and religious traditions and celebrations.  Many of those cultural and religious holidays stem from Hispanic countries. Hispanics are known for their cultural and religious devotion, and the grand way in which they celebrate their holidays – both religious and secular.  Some of the most well-known Hispanic celebrations and holidays include … Read More