ESL+Grades+1-4

**Tips for Parents:**

We believe that students should still learn their home language outside of their English classes. If ESL students study their home language, it will help them learn English and their other subjects in school. The mother tongue is important for family and community, and many students will go back to their home countries where they will need their mother tongue. Students can speak their home language during breaks like recess.

Most of the students in our school speak English as an additional language. If the ESL teacher gives support to a student in lessons or in class, that student will get ESL comments on the report card from the ESL teacher. Please understand that even if your child speaks English as an additional language, his or her English might not need this extra support. Please talk to the ESL or Classroom teacher about the decision if you have any questions.

Please talk to the ESL teacher or the Classroom teacher every time you have questions or worries. For example, tell a teacher if you think the homework takes too much time each night. My schedule is located on the left. Feel free to set up a meeting time with me either before school or during a planning period.

Please understand that your child is around a new language and culture all day. He or she might feel frustrated or insecure, especially as a new student. Please talk with them about their feelings and give encouragement!

Please give your child time. It often takes years for new ESL students to speak and write in English easily.

You can also help your child get involved with extracurricular activities and build friendships with other children who speak English. If someone at home can practice speaking and reading in English with the child, please do! Encourage your child to read or watch movies in English or to play ESL games on the internet. There are many fun ways to practice English at home.

**Last updated 5 September 2011**