Crucial Conversations: Discussing Early Dual Language Development with Speech/Language Therapists
Early Childhood Education (ECE) settings and services ought to be culturally and linguistically responsive for all children.
Unfortunately, data from parent focus groups conducted by UnidosUS in 2022 demonstrate that Latino families continue to experience a lack of understanding within ECE systems, with their children bearing the brunt of continuing misinformation. We found that speech therapists were advising Latina moms not to speak Spanish to their children so as not to “confuse” them. This topic brief reviews our focus group findings and presents key research evidence, compiled over decades, that contradicts this advice. Recommendations for programs, parents and family members and policy makers are included.
