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English as second language what support ideas for children do you have
Posted: Fri Jun 13, 2014 2:31 pm
by lisa.foraker
HI there this is the first time I have posted something and hoping someone may be able to help or share ideas.
We have twin Chinese girls who started kindergarten with no English at all. The family also have none either.
The children were left today and cried to vomiting stage. We have done the usual things like building relationships, supporting etc however would like to hear from anyone who has worked through a similar scenario or can offer advice.
regards L
Re: English as second language what support ideas for children do you have
Posted: Fri Jun 13, 2014 7:31 pm
by JNP
Hi Lisa,
maybe you could encourage the girls to bring in a comfort toy/blanket from home.
Jules.
Re: English as second language what support ideas for children do you have
Posted: Fri Jun 13, 2014 8:34 pm
by lisa.foraker
hi Jules yes great idea and will try to convey this to family thanks
Re: English as second language what support ideas for children do you have
Posted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 4:34 am
by Lorina
Hi Lisa,
Welcome to Aussie Childcare Network! 
It is quite common for children to have difficulties to settle in especially when they are so new to the environment. It must be very difficult for them as well as for their family at this stage since this is completely new to all of them. The girls will settle in time and become comfortable within the environment.
The hardest part is probably communication. A good place to start is to learn some common words that you can use to communicate with the girls. Hello, goodbye, etc. Yes, they may be older and understand gestures but it will make them feel more comfortable if you try and communicate with them. There is a lot of fee courses on the net available: http://www.chinese-tools.com/learn/chinese
You could also include some stories in Chinese (mandarin) that you can include on the bookshelf. If you don't have any available you can borrow from the local library or just print some stories from the internet. Add Chinese characters to objects around the room for recognition and if possible learn a rhyme in mandarin which they may be familiar with which can be taught to the class.. The whole idea is too make the girls feel invited and feel a sense of belonging within the group by including items they are familiar with...
During drop offs in the morning make sure these is a consistent routine as well. Parents comes in, girls put bags away, parent takes girls over to book area, choose a book, says goodbye and leaves. The quicker the better...
No matter what, it is going to take time... You just need to continue to provide support and reassurance....
Hopefully these ideas help,
,
L.A
Re: English as second language what support ideas for children do you have
Posted: Sat Aug 16, 2014 4:35 pm
by Laiorwyn
I learned basic greetings and instructions to communicate with the children, use big gestures and get down and teach simple words and phrases (preschool level) to the kids. It takes time but the 4 different language groups I've been doing this with have responded well.