Enhancing Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Practices in Early Intervention

I'm excited to share insights from a 2023 presentation from Dr. Serra Acar, an esteemed assistant professor of early childhood education at the University of Massachusetts, Boston. Dr. Acar's expertise spans over a decade in various areas, including assessment, dual language learners, and teacher preparation.

Here's a breakdown of her wonderful presentation on Supporting Linguistically Diverse Families in EI, focusing on her key points:

Translanguaging: Defined as the practice of using more than one language in a conversation, translanguaging was discussed as a natural process, especially among bilingual children. Dr. Acar emphasized its pedagogical approach to intentionally support children exposed to multiple languages by encouraging the exposure and use of multiple languages. 

Family Interviews: Dr. Acar stressed the significance of conducting successful family interviews, suggesting strategies such as reminders, flexible scheduling, and multiple modes of communication to ensure effective interactions. Documenting detailed observations and parent input was highlighted to inform assessment and intervention decisions more so than relying on standardized assessments.

Presenting Results: Dr. Acar emphasized the importance of presenting assessment results in plain, jargon-free language to ensure families understand the findings. Dr. Acar recommended providing real-life examples and avoiding numerical explanations that may be unfamiliar to families. Dr. Acar valued strength-based language. Follow-up and ongoing support were highlighted as essential components of effective family engagement.

In conclusion, Dr. Serra Acar's insights signify culturally and linguistically responsive practices in early childhood education. By prioritizing meaningful engagement with families and embracing diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, we can create inclusivity and support the holistic development of all children.

For more from Dr. Acar, you can view her complete presentation and access her slides through our Early Intervention Expert Insights series here. If you’ve already enrolled in this series, you have instant access in module 3, here.