Welcoming Newcomers to Your Classroom: A Guide for Teachers
Welcome to your classroom where every student brings a unique story.
Here are some tips to welcome your newcomer into a warm environment that celebrates their arrival.
Build a Bridge of Communication 🤝 Communication is key! Use simple language, encourage peer interactions, and explore creative ways like drawings or games to foster understanding.
Buddy System Magic ✨ Pair your newcomer with a buddy who can guide them through daily routines and be a friendly face. This helps them feel connected and eases the journey into the American school experience.
Picture This! 📸 Visual aids are superheroes! Use images, charts, and diagrams to help your student grasp concepts. This not only aids language development but makes learning a blast!
Cultural Explorer Zone 🌐 Transform your classroom into a cultural playground. Share diverse stories, foods, and traditions to create an inclusive atmosphere. Celebrate differences and let curiosity thrive!
Language is a Journey, Not a Race 🗣️ Your new student might be learning English, but it's not a sprint! Encourage patience, use visuals, and incorporate gestures to make learning language an exciting adventure.
Routine Rocks ⏰ Establish clear routines to provide a sense of security. Knowing what to expect helps your newcomer feel more at ease and confident in navigating the school day.
Multilingual Magic 🌈 Encourage and celebrate multilingualism! If your student speaks another language, embrace it. It's a valuable asset and a source of pride.
Team Up with Families 👨👩👧👦 Connect with your student's family. Understanding their background, traditions, and expectations fosters a strong support system, ensuring success inside and outside the classroom. Connect with your new student’s family using Pacific Interpreters or bilingual staff.
Celebrate Progress 🎉 Acknowledge small victories! Whether it's mastering a new word or confidently participating in class, celebrate every step forward. Positivity fuels motivation.
Your Classroom Family 🏫 Create a sense of belonging. Encourage collaboration and teamwork. Every student plays a vital role in the classroom family, making it a safe and welcoming space.
Keep the Adventure Alive! 🚀 Learning is an adventure, and every day brings new discoveries. Keep the spirit of exploration alive, and soon your newcomer will not just survive but thrive in their American school journey!
Check out these resources as you get to know your new students!
NCELA - National Clearing House for English Language Acquisition Newcomers ToolKit
WIDA eLearning courses including one called Classroom Teachers: Engaging Multilingual Newcomers
ELLevation Professional Learning Modules (login to ELLevation first, then click the link)
Essential Practices for Students in Entering and Emerging stages
Family Activities in multiple languages from WIDA
MDE Welcoming and Educating New-to-country Students and Families