It is a difficult, challenging time for young ELL students when they arrive in your school. And yet, in general, what matters most to all students is feeling safe and a sense of belonging . When you show that you are listening, and that you care about your students, motivation and achievement are more likely to increase. "Positive relationships are the foundation of any successful classroom and particularly one that includes English-Language Learners (ELL). Teachers must learn about their students' experiences and backgrounds in order to connect them to new learning. Teachers also need to know what their students are interested in and what their goals are in order to create lessons which engage them and are relevant to their lives. When teachers get to know their students, they can make better decisions about the curriculum, instructional strategies, classroom management, assessment, pacing, and the list goes on" (Ferlazzo, 2015).

Make language learning cool! Teach students that this is like any other challenge that takes practice, support and patience. Recognize that the new student is a gift, and can share and teach many things to us. Have students learn some of the newcomers language in order to communicate in a simple conversation. Play games for practice and review of language and content.

Learn about new places. Incorporate opportunities to investigate things about the newcomers homeland, cultural differences, cultural holidays and special events. Mark dates on a classroom calendar, celebrate special events even with recognition.

Read The ABC's from space with Voyager Google.

Read world stories and folktales from other countries that will create dialogue and promote a sense of understanding. Or use Google Earth Folktales around the World (linked to a wide range of resources with Literacy Central) to explore the geography and origin of different cultural stories

Plan a morning meeting or closing discussion each day for 5 minutes can set the tone for acceptance and mutual respect among students. Learn and ask questions. Find out what they are curious about, and what things are worrisome.

Incorporate classroom jobs, that will show students responsibility and good citizenship. Teach all students what the roles look like. This will help to develop routine, and encourage them contribute as a class member.

Host a traditional food day or week for students to try a sampling of the cuisine from other countries.

Consider a multicultural week, which might include traditional dress, crafts, food, games, and stories from places around the world.

Provide Opportunities for Breaks and Calming Activities Imagine being placed in a new environment as a child where you might not understand the language, you might not look or sound like anyone else. You will need breaks from language and sensory overload. It is important to have activities and spaces where learners can find a breath and hear quiet when needed.

There are many apps and resources to help students with calming and mindful activities. A set of calming cards provides ideas for students to have choice in their outlet, and begin to understand what works best to help them recollect, re-energize and resume. The package is free with an email sign up.

Teach mindfulness to all students. Demonstrate that there is joy in the moment and that by simply allowing ourselves to stop and be aware of our surroundings and emotions, we can find peacefulness and open new paths to understanding.

Cosmic Kids website - high and low energy videos, lessons and activities for mindfulness

Smiling Mind App - app for self regulation and positive thoughts, some lessons

Mindful Powers App - mediation and mindfulness activities (vetted by our school district -training available)