Dual Language Learners in Early Care and Education (March 2022)

Early care and education impact children’s transition to school, as well as their long-term social and cognitive growth (Belsky et al., 2007; National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2018). Access to quality early care and education is particularly important for dual language learners (DLLs), as these years represent an important window for exposure and initial development of both English and their home languages (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2017). This fact sheet presents information about children under the age of 6 growing up speaking a language other than English at home. Disparities between DLL households and English language households in accessing high-quality, affordable, early care and education options are highlighted.