Tuesday 17th April 2012

This training session is developed to extend the information in Supporting Children Learning English as a Second Language in the Early Years (Nov 2009), a discussion paper supporting the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (2009). It was developed in partnership with Dr Priscilla Clarke and the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) with input and piloting by fka Children’s Services.

In the first years, the early experiences of babies and toddlers need to reinforce their identity and self esteem. Children need to feel that their caregivers value and respect their family, particularly their language and culture. This respect is demonstrated in the way babies are spoken to, soothed, fed, carried and nurtured. These early experiences are influenced by diverse cultural practices and values of the family. Early childhood professionals working with babies and toddlers need to show respect for the families cultural practices and incorporate familiar routines for sleeping and eating (Siraj-Blatchford and Clarke 2000) (VCAA,2009:12).

This module provides comprehensive information to support educators to develop insight into ‘belonging’ for children raised in culturally diverse backgrounds. The module is delivered with a participant workbook that will become an ongoing resource for educators working with babies and young children developing English as an Additional Language. 

Topics to be covered: 

• Fostering identity and self-esteem
• Language learning
• The importance of maintaining the first language
• Strategies for supporting babies and toddlers
• Supportive environments for under threes
• Partnerships with families

Learning Outcomes for participants to:

• Develop insight into the issues for young children learning English as an additional Language (EAL)
• Understand the importance of maintaining the first language
• Understand factors that are important in fostering self esteem and a sense of belonging for children and families from CALD backgrounds
• Develop strategies in partnership with families for supporting young EAL learners in inclusive environments

Designed For:

• All Educators
• FDC, LDC

Related Standards

NQF, NQS: Quality Areas 1, 2, 5

Tuesday 17th April 2012
Venue: Brookside Community Centre, Federation Way Caroline Springs, Melway Ref: 358 F2
Time: 1:30pm - 4:30pm
Cost: $33 (if you are working in a non-Commonwealth funded service and would like to attend this training session please ring fka Children's Services on 9428 4471)

Please fill in SECTION A of Booking form.