In today’s early childhood classrooms, diversity isn’t just cultural—it’s linguistic. Increasingly, preschool educators are welcoming children who speak multiple languages, or who are learning English as a second (or third) language. These young learners, often referred to as Dual Language Learners (DLLs), bring rich linguistic and cultural backgrounds that deserve to be honored, celebrated, and supported.

But teaching in a multilingual classroom requires more than just enthusiasm—it calls for intentional strategies that promote equity, inclusion, and language development. With the right tools, educators can ensure DLLs thrive academically, socially, and emotionally from the earliest years.

Who Are Dual Language Learners?

Dual Language Learners are children under age five who are learning a language at home that is not the same as the primary language of instruction in school. In the U.S., this often means children who speak Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic, Vietnamese, Somali, or dozens of other languages at home and are learning English in the classroom.

These children are not behind—they’re bilingual in progress. In fact, research shows that bilingualism has significant cognitive, academic, and social benefits, including:

• Enhanced problem-solving skills
   

• Better executive function
   

• Greater empathy and cross-cultural understanding
   

• Long-term academic advantages
   

The goal of early education should not be to replace a child’s home language with English, but to support both languages in a developmentally appropriate and respectful way.

Why Supporting DLLs in Preschool Is Crucial

The preschool years represent a powerful window for language acquisition. During this time, children's brains are uniquely wired to absorb new languages naturally. However, DLLs also face specific challenges, including:

• Limited English vocabulary
   

• Misunderstood behavior (which may be language-related)
   

• Feelings of isolation or confusion
   

• Inconsistent support of their home language
   

Failing to support DLLs effectively can result in long-term academic gaps and reduced self-esteem. On the other hand, classrooms that are inclusive of multiple languages nurture children’s full identities and set them up for lifelong learning success.

Key Strategies for Teaching Dual Language Learners

1. Create a Language-Rich Environment

Preschoolers learn language by hearing it used meaningfully and frequently. Create a classroom where both English and home languages are visible, spoken, and valued.

• Label objects in multiple languages
   

• Display posters and books that reflect the cultures and languages of your students
   

• Use songs and chants in various languages
   

• Invite families to contribute words and phrases
   

Tip: Repetition is key. Repeat words and phrases with gestures or visual cues to build understanding over time.

2. Use Visual Supports and Nonverbal Cues

Dual Language Learners often rely on context clues to understand what’s happening around them. Visuals make language concrete and help bridge communication gaps.

• Use picture schedules, labeled photos, and illustrated instructions
   

• Pair gestures with spoken instructions (e.g., pointing, miming actions)
   

• Model behavior visually instead of just giving verbal directions
   

Example: While saying “wash your hands,” demonstrate it using gestures or pictures showing the process step by step.

3. Support and Validate the Home Language

A child’s home language is the foundation for their identity and learning. Valuing it in the classroom promotes emotional safety and supports stronger academic outcomes.

• Encourage families to speak and read in their home language at home
   

• Learn key phrases in students’ home languages (e.g., greetings, praise)
   

• Allow children to use their home language with peers or during free play
   

Important: Research shows that strong home language skills actually help—not hinder—English language development.

4. Use Small Groups and Peer Support

DLLs benefit from frequent, low-pressure opportunities to interact with peers and adults.

• Create small group activities where DLLs can participate more easily
   

• Pair DLLs with bilingual buddies or peer mentors
   

• Foster cooperative play to encourage natural language use
   

Strategy: During small group storytelling, allow DLLs to draw, point, or use a few words to participate at their comfort level.

5. Incorporate Multilingual Books and Songs

Books and music are powerful, engaging ways to support language development across cultures.

• Include bilingual books in your classroom library
   

• Invite families to share stories or songs from their culture
   

• Play music in different languages during transitions or quiet time
   

Resource Idea: Make audio recordings of parents reading favorite stories in their home language to play during storytime.

6. Differentiate Language Goals

It’s important to recognize that DLLs may be developing English at a different pace than native speakers. Set individualized goals that reflect their growth—not just comparison.

• Track both expressive (speaking) and receptive (understanding) language
   

• Celebrate small milestones (e.g., using a new word, following multi-step instructions)
   

• Be patient—language takes time
   

Note: Avoid labeling DLLs as "behind." Language development is a journey, not a race.

7. Partner with Families as Language Partners

Families are children's first teachers—and often the best resource for preserving and growing bilingual skills.

• Host multilingual family nights or cultural events
   

• Send home materials in the family’s preferred language
   

• Ask parents for key vocabulary words used at home
   

ECE University, a trusted leader in online training for early childhood educators, offers professional development that includes cultural competency and dual language learning techniques—helping educators form stronger partnerships with families from diverse backgrounds. Learn more at ECE University.

8. Use Language Modeling and Scaffolding

Language scaffolding involves building on what a child already knows to help them reach the next step.

• Expand their responses: If a child says “apple,” respond with “Yes, that’s a red apple.”
   

• Offer sentence frames: “I see a ___.” or “I like the ___.”
   

• Repeat, rephrase, and slow your speech for clarity
   

Scaffold: Don’t simplify language too much. Rich, natural conversation builds better long-term skills.

9. Focus on Social-Emotional Support

For DLLs, language development and emotional well-being are closely connected. Children who feel safe and included are more willing to take language risks and engage socially.

• Greet each child warmly in their home language
   

• Be extra attentive to signs of frustration or withdrawal
   

• Use emotional visuals and support strategies to aid expression
   

Inclusion Tip: Pair new DLLs with consistent caregivers or buddies during transitions and routines.

10. Provide Consistent Routines and Repetition

Predictable routines help DLLs feel secure and allow them to learn language through repetition.

• Use the same phrases for daily routines (e.g., “Time to clean up!”)
   

• Sing the same transition songs each day
   

• Review classroom vocabulary regularly
   

Consistency creates context. When DLLs know what to expect, they can focus on learning language instead of decoding the situation.

Professional Development for Teachers of DLLs

Supporting multilingual learners is a professional skill—one that grows with training and reflection. Educators can benefit from specialized workshops, online courses, and resources that explore:

• Second language acquisition in early childhood
   

• Anti-bias and culturally responsive practices
   

• Family engagement in multilingual settings
   

One standout option is ECE University, which offers self-paced, accessible online training specifically designed for early childhood educators. Their dual language and cultural diversity courses help teachers build inclusive classrooms while earning continuing education units (CEUs).

Conclusion: Every Language Is a Gift

Teaching Dual Language Learners isn’t about choosing one language over another—it’s about embracing both. In the multilingual preschool classroom, educators have the opportunity to celebrate diversity, nurture bilingualism, and build bridges between home and school.

By using inclusive strategies, fostering strong relationships, and honoring every child’s linguistic identity, we create classrooms where every learner feels valued—and where every word, in every language, is a step toward a brighter future.