Newsom approves new bilingual childcare law in California.
California Bill Aims to Support English Language Learners in Childcare Centers
California Governor Gavin Newsom has recently approved a bill that seeks to enhance the educational experience of English language learner students in childcare centers. The bill, known as Assembly Bill 393, was introduced by Assemblywoman Luz Rivas and requires state-subsidized childcare centers and family childcare homes serving low-income children to survey families about the languages spoken at home.
Assemblywoman Rivas highlighted that 60 percent of children under the age of five in California speak more than one language at home. By incorporating the home languages of these children into the centers’ programs, the bill aims to better support their linguistic and cultural diversity.
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Assemblywoman Rivas emphasized the need for consistent identification of dual language learners in California’s general childcare programs. Without this information, policymakers lack the necessary insights to allocate resources effectively and nurture the linguistic development of these children.
The bill also highlights the importance of caring for children in both English and their home languages as they prepare for schooling. Research shows that fluency in multiple languages enhances cognitive flexibility, learning abilities, and future competitiveness in the global workforce.
Under the new law, childcare centers must report survey information to the state. California’s Department of Social Services will then develop directives and regulations based on the survey results to guide centers in implementing language support programs.
Participation in the survey is optional for families, and declining to participate will not affect their child’s eligibility for the center.
The bill received unanimous support from legislators and various education groups, including Catalyst California, Children Now, Children’s Institute and Parent Institute for Quality Education, and Early Edge California. These groups recognize the importance of culturally and linguistically responsive childcare programs that meet the developmental needs of dual language learners.
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Under the new law, childcare centers and family childcare homes will be required to distribute a language survey to parents and guardians, which will ask about the languages spoken at home and the preferred language for communication between the childcare provider and the family. This information will then be used to ensure that the curriculum and resources at the childcare centers are tailored to meet the needs of the diverse language backgrounds of the children.
The bill also seeks to promote the hiring and training of bilingual staff at childcare centers. By having staff members who are fluent in multiple languages, the centers will be better equipped to provide effective communication and support to English language learner students and their families. This will not only enhance the educational experience of the children but also foster a sense of inclusivity and belonging.
Furthermore, Assembly Bill 393 recognizes the importance of cultural competency in early childhood education. Childcare centers will be required to implement strategies and practices that acknowledge and respect the cultural diversity of the children and their families. This includes incorporating culturally relevant materials, activities, and celebrations in the program to create a welcoming and inclusive environment. By doing so, the bill aims to promote the overall development and well-being of the children while honoring their cultural identities.
Supporters of the bill believe that these measures will contribute to closing the achievement gap for English language learner students. By recognizing and valuing the linguistic and cultural diversity of these children, the bill aims to create an environment where they can fully engage in the learning process and reach their full potential. It is hoped that by enhancing the support provided to English language learners in childcare centers, these children will be better prepared for success in school and beyond.
Assemblywoman Rivas emphasized the significance of early childhood education in shaping the future of the state. She stressed that ensuring an inclusive and supportive environment for English language learner students is crucial in fostering their language development, cognitive skills, and overall social-emotional well-being. By investing in the educational needs of these children from an early age, the state of California aims to build a strong foundation for their future success.
The approval of Assembly Bill 393 demonstrates California’s commitment to providing equal opportunities and support to all children, regardless of their language background. By incorporating the home languages and cultural diversity of English language learner students into childcare center programs, the state is taking a step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable education system. It is hoped that this bill will serve as a model for other states to follow in their efforts to support English language learners and promote educational equity.
Overall, Assembly Bill 393 represents a positive stride towards better supporting English language learner students in childcare centers. By acknowledging the linguistic and cultural diversity of these children and integrating their home languages into the educational experience, the bill aims to create a more inclusive and effective learning environment. California’s commitment to providing equal opportunities for all children is evident in this bill, and it is hoped that it will lead to positive outcomes for English language learners in the state.
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