• Conduct family interviews.

• Ask key questions:

  • Are difficulties present in the home language?

  • Is the child exposed to more than one language regularly?

  • Are the same concerns observed at home by the parents?

• https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/pdf/dll-gathering-info.pdf

YES: Proceed with language support services
NO/UNCLEAR: Continue monitoring and use developmentally appropriate strategies for support

• Implement strategies like:

  • Visual supports

  • Simplified language

  • Wait time and modeling

• Use differentiated instruction practices

• Differentiated Instruction Overview

• Are students making gains with interventions?

  • YES → Continue language support

  • NO → Concerns persist across settings and languages

Use formative assessments:

• Exit tickets, journals, small-group instruction, choice boards

• Formative Assessment Examples

• If a learning disability is diagnosed:

  • Develop IEP

  • Provide specialized instruction

• If not eligible, continue with differentiated supports and progress monitoring

• Early Childhood Special Education Services Overview

• Consult with bilingual SLP or ESL specialists

• Review interventions and observations

• Role of Bilingual SLP

• Use data from:

  • Family interviews

  • Observations across settings

  • Results from strategies attempted

  • Culturally and linguistically appropriate screening tools

• Child Find Resources

Back, L., Sinha, S., & Bryan, C. (2016). The language of inclusion: Using person-first language. Inclusion Press.universallydesigned.education

Harry, B., & Klingner, J. (2022). Why are so many minority students in special education? Understanding race & disability in schools (2nd ed.). Teachers College Press.universallydesigned.education

U.S. Department of Education. (2017). English learner toolkit for state and local education agencies (SEAs and LEAs). https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/oela/english-learner-toolkit/index.html

WestEd. (n.d.). Supporting multilingual learners with disabilities. https://www.wested.org/support/supporting-multilingual-learners-with-disabilities/WestEd