“Effective Strategies for Engaging with Emergent Bilingual Families: 6 Helpful Tips”
Introduction:
As the challenges of helping students recover from the disruptions caused by the pandemic continue, it is crucial to actively engage families in their education. With the increasing number of emerging bilingual families, effective communication is vital. This article discusses the impact of chronic absenteeism among EB students and provides strategies for improved communication and engagement.
Full Article: “Effective Strategies for Engaging with Emergent Bilingual Families: 6 Helpful Tips”
Engagement of Families in Student Education is Crucial for Student Success, Especially for Emerging Bilingual Families
The Shift in K-12 Enrollment and Impact on Teachers
Experienced educators know that active family engagement is essential for student success. This becomes more crucial as we help students recover from the disruptions caused by the pandemic, particularly for emerging bilingual families. According to federal data, emerging bilingual learners comprised 10 percent of K-12 students in 2020. This number is projected to rise, with closer to 20 percent in California and Texas. In terms of teacher impact, 64 percent have at least one emerging bilingual student in their classroom.
The Challenge of Chronic Absenteeism Among Emerging Bilingual Students
One significant challenge is the elevated risk of chronic absenteeism among emerging bilingual students. While pre-pandemic emerging bilingual students had some of the highest attendance rates, these numbers have plummeted during and since the pandemic, profoundly impacting their academic journey. Furthermore, studies indicate that emerging bilingual high school students have a chronic absenteeism rate of 25 percent, compared to 18 percent for their non-emerging bilingual peers in the same grade.
The Vital Role of Parent Communication in Student Success
Effective parent communication plays a vital role in promoting student success. When home adults actively engage in their student’s education, it substantially enhances attendance and academic outcomes. To achieve this, schools need to address and overcome language barriers, cultural adjustment, and socioeconomic factors that impede communication with emerging bilingual families.
Six Strategies for Effective Communication and Engagement
To foster better school attendance and engagement among emerging bilingual students and their families, schools can implement the following strategies:
- Involve families in the learning process
- Use a communications platform with automatic translation
- Use direct and clear language
- Use multiple types of communication
- Encourage open and frequent communication
- Share specific examples of student progress or challenges
By embracing these strategies, schools can bridge gaps, provide stronger relationships, and enhance attendance and academic outcomes for some of the most vulnerable students entering the U.S. K-12 education system.
Summary: “Effective Strategies for Engaging with Emergent Bilingual Families: 6 Helpful Tips”
Educators understand the importance of family engagement, particularly for emerging bilingual (EB) families. The challenges of chronic absenteeism and impactful strategies for effective communication and engagement with these families are highlighted. Dr. Kara Stern from SchoolStatus recommends involving families in the learning process, using a communications platform with automatic translation, and encouraging open communication.
6 Tips for Communicating with Emergent Bilingual Families
Emergent bilingual families may face unique challenges in communication. Here are six tips to help you effectively connect with them.
1. Learn about their culture and language
Understanding the culture and language of the emergent bilingual families you are working with is crucial for effective communication. Take the time to educate yourself about their customs, traditions, and language to build rapport and trust.
2. Use simple and clear language
When communicating with emergent bilingual families, use simple and clear language to ensure that your message is easily understood. Avoid using jargon or complex terminology that may be confusing or overwhelming.
3. Provide translated materials
Offering translated materials, such as pamphlets, newsletters, and important documents, in their native language can help bridge the communication gap and ensure that vital information is accessible to all family members.
4. Utilize visual aids
Incorporating visual aids, such as pictures, charts, and diagrams, can enhance communication and help convey information more effectively, especially when language barriers exist.
5. Foster a welcoming environment
Create a welcoming and inclusive environment by celebrating diversity and showing respect for different cultural backgrounds. This can help emergent bilingual families feel comfortable and valued in their interactions with you.
6. Seek input and feedback
Encourage and welcome input and feedback from emergent bilingual families. This can help you better understand their needs and preferences, ultimately leading to more meaningful and productive communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I learn about the culture and language of emergent bilingual families?
A: You can take cultural competency workshops, attend community events, and interact with individuals from the same cultural background to gain a deeper understanding.
Q: Where can I find translated materials for emergent bilingual families?
A: You can reach out to translation services or organizations that specialize in providing translations for materials such as pamphlets, newsletters, and documents.
Q: What are some examples of visual aids that I can use?
A: Visual aids can include pictures, charts, diagrams, and even gestures or body language to enhance communication and understanding.
Q: How can I create a welcoming environment for emergent bilingual families?
A: You can display cultural symbols, provide multilingual signage, and organize cultural events to show inclusivity and respect for diverse backgrounds.
Q: How do I encourage input and feedback from emergent bilingual families?
A: You can actively solicit feedback during meetings, surveys, or informal conversations, and ensure that all voices are heard and valued.
