Hi, welcome to silkysteps
A child's prefered use of language is their most naturally formed way of interacting and communcating with the world around them. How language differs and is nurtured depends on their cultural background, upbringing and access to see and experience the variations of how language is and can be used.
Under
article 2 of the UNCRC a child's right to a language is protected from discrimination.
Under article 13 children have the right to express themselves in anyway that does not infringe or endanger the rights of others.
Article 29 (c) requests the development of respect for children's parents, recognising how children have a home which involves the use of language, the cultural heritage this encapsulates is the formation of a child's personal identity, a sense of belonging, social inclusion, well-being and creates an awareness of the diversity that exists in the world.
Equality act 2010
Ways to help overcome communciation barriers
Be respectful of parent's and children's home language
Be aware of discrimination, judgement, bias, prejudice
Be confident when explaining the limitations of understanding a language that is different to your own.
Understand the barriers and factors involved - money, homelife, work expectations, literacy, language, disability, impairement, how parents prefer to communicate - telephone, email, face to face
Be flexible in accomodating parent's wishes so children can be wholly included and recieve additional opportunities to ensure a positive start to their life outside of home - life chances & positive outcomes.
Use resources to support communication: translation services, english language support, sign language training, signage in the room, PECs, Blob tree.
Research locally for information that supports professional practice and enables you to signpost parents appropriately when help is requested or you are in a position to offer it - multi agency, partnerships. Community support workers, liason officers, outreach, immigration
Supporting children and young people whose first language is not english from Communitymatters.gov.uk
Hampshire's young interpreteur scheme -
valuing a first language,
a chart and
Early years
Hope this helps a little, enjoy the site