Situating Literacy-Rich Engagements for Young Emergent Bilinguals

Abstract

Camp Sunshine, a summer literacy program for emergent bilingual children ages 4-8, positions bilingualism as an asset. In Camp Sunshine, we strive to create inclusive multilingual spaces that honor children's cultural identities and lived experiences while supporting literacy development. The camp implements a three-pronged approach to literacy engagement: beginning with whole-group interactive read-alouds of carefully selected multicultural picturebooks, followed by small-group re-engagement with key concepts, and culminating in hands-on explorations through art or play-based activities. Through Camp Sunshine, children freely use their full linguistic repertoires, navigating literacy as they engage in translanguaging. This descriptive article presents key insights including strategies to support literacy development like using culturally relevant literature as windows into children's experiences, incorporating sensory-rich experiences, and fostering collaborative relationships between educators. The framework which offers practical applications for educators seeking to create culturally responsive learning environments for emergent bilingual learners.