What is Important for Young Dual Language Learners?

Abstract

This pilot study surveyed the perceptions of early childcare providers, teachers, and administrators 
about four general areas represented in the Prekindergarten Foundation for the Common Core 
domains—approaches to learning, social, and emotional development, pre-literacy, and general 
knowledge—and how these relate to children’s ability to succeed in kindergarten and subsequent 
schooling. Results reveal that while administrators and teachers agreed on the importance of each 
area, teachers who had high numbers of dual language learners and/or served children in urban areas
viewed pre-literacy skills as very important, especially in comparison with general knowledge.
Implications of this pilot study for practice and future research are discussed.