There are many ways in which early years practitioners can support children for whom English is not the first language, but perhaps most important is having an awareness of how their culture and background will have given them different experiences. An understanding of this will be helpful in creating a welcoming environment where all children feel safe and secure.
A positive attitude is supported by the Curriculum Guidance for the Foundation Stage, where the advice is 'to value linguistic diversity and provide opportunities for children to use their home language in play and learning'.
All children benefit from a multicultural setting. It prepares them to become sensitive members of a multi-cultural community. Both nursery and home have an important role to play in laying this foundation.
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