Supporting English Learners in Preschool: Strategies for Teachers

Abstract

This research to practice paper summarizes a study of Supporting Preschoolers with Language Differences (SPLD), a professional development (PD) program aimed at building the capacity of preschool teachers to support the language and literacy development of young English learners (ELs). It describes practical strategies and approaches included in the program that all preschool teachers can use- formative assessment, specific language-support strategies, and adaptations to classroom activities- to promote EL children’s oral language, receptive language, and pre-literacy skills.