Supporting the Wellbeing of Young Children with EAL

Language and communication skills are a key foundation of child development. This accessible and engaging resource enables early years educators to support the wellbeing and development of children whose first language is not English. Positioning language as a community entity, the book explores critical approaches to language development and, importantly, their practical application to planning, provision, professional development, and wellbeing. It provides context and evidence-based strategies to develop strong, child-centred practice in real-world settings, and offers an overview of how educators can work with families to ensure a consistent approach to early language development at home. The book: - Supports the wellbeing of children for whom everyday communication in an English setting may be confusing and difficult - Provides strategies and techniques that recognise the unique wellbeing needs of children with EAL and can be implemented immediately throughout the EYFS curriculum and beyond - Focuses on engaging the whole community with a holistic approach to early language development and wellbeing Drawing from first-hand experience and with practical examples and ideas woven throughout, this is an essential resource for all early years educators working with young children with EAL.

Liam A. Murphy is a British born early years educator who has spent his career exploring Asia, specifically Japan, Mainland China, and Hong Kong, where he has introduced international early years standards and practices across multiple schools and educational institutions. Liam's passion is in language development, specifically second, third, or even fourth languages, and the development of the young brain as it acquires communication skills across vastly different communication methods. Liam hopes to introduce more practitioners to life in the international early years system, and hopes this book helps those who are on their own adventure into multilingualism!

An Introduction from the Author, Chapter 1: Understanding Critical Approaches to Language and Wellbeing, Chapter 2: Connecting to the Holistic Approach, Chapter 3: Exploring the Prime Areas in EAL, Chapter 4: Exploring the Specific Areas in EAL, Chapter 5: Overcoming Challenges for EAL Students, Chapter 6: Culturally Responsive Pedagogy, Chapter 7: Engaging EAL Families, Chapter 8: Conclusion, References