Supporting the Wellbeing of Young Children with EAL: Essential Ideas for Practice and Reflection

Language and communication skills are a key foundation of child development. This accessible and engaging resource enables early years educators to support the wellbeing and development of children whose first language is not English.

Positioning language as a community entity, the book explores critical approaches to language development and, importantly, their practical application to planning, provision, professional development, and wellbeing. It provides context and evidence-based strategies to develop strong, child-centred practice in real-world settings, and offers an overview of how educators can work with families to ensure a consistent approach to early language development at home.

The book:

• Supports the wellbeing of children for whom everyday communication in an English setting may be confusing and difficult
• Provides strategies and techniques that recognise the unique wellbeing needs of children with EAL and can be implemented immediately throughout the EYFS curriculum and beyond
• Focuses on engaging the whole community with a holistic approach to early language development and wellbeing

Drawing from first-hand experience and with practical examples and ideas woven throughout, this is an essential resource for all early years educators working with young children with EAL.

Table of Contents

An Introduction from the Author

Chapter 1: Understanding Critical Approaches to Language and Wellbeing

Chapter 2: Connecting to the Holistic Approach

Chapter 3: Exploring the Prime Areas in EAL

Chapter 4: Exploring the Specific Areas in EAL

Chapter 5: Overcoming Challenges for EAL Students

Chapter 6: Culturally Responsive Pedagogy

Chapter 7: Engaging EAL Families

Chapter 8: Conclusion

References