MLL-FLOW©
We specialize in supporting Dual / Multilingual Learners through our MLL-FLOW framework, an effective and proven program that help educators make a positive impact in the learning and development of culturally and linguistically diverse children and their families.
But, how do you define
Multilingual Learners (MLLs)?
MLLs are children who are learning English while also continuing to develop their home and other languages. Also known as Dual Language Learners (DLLs), English Language Learners (ELL), bilinguals and multilinguals.
From our Blog
Neuroscientific investigations suggest that the brains of bilingual individuals exhibit unique patterns compared to those of monolinguals. This neurological advantage manifests early in childhood, underscoring the importance of introducing bilingual education at an early stage.
Before applying our MLL-FLOW framework, this is what we heard from our clients:
“Our program keeps receiving more and more children whose home language is not English. They also come from different cultures. My staff don’t really know how to be intentional to support these young children who are developing more than one language. They also don’t really know how to relate with their families’ culture. I feel afraid that the multilingual learners are falling through the cracks and that we’re not really giving them specialized and specific support”
“I really need my staff to learn how to be intentional with these students. Our program really strives to give the best to all families of all languages and cultures but how can we do it if you don’t know how to?”
It’s true that more and more we’re going to see more children who are multilingual. Yet, if MLL children are properly supported, they will learn how to speak English in addition to the social, emotional and cognitive benefits.
Tell me more about the
MLL-FLOW framework please!
MLL-FLOW is an evidence-based and scalable professional development system that early childhood programs can use to support the development of children who are learning English while also continuing to develop their home and other languages.
This innovative system can be implemented with early childhood programs that support infants, toddlers, and preschoolers (Birth to age 5). Our professional development programs for teachers consist of ongoing and sustained training, coaching, and on-line resources.
MLL-FLOW is composed of research-based teaching strategies that are compiled into three categories:
Body MLL
Culturally and linguistically responsive classroom foundations to support MLLs and to collaborate with their families
Heart MLL
Social and emotional strategies to support MLLs and to collaborate with their families
Mind MLL
Language and cognitive development strategies to support MLLs and to collaborate with their families
Book a free consultation
Our expert team is ready to guide you through a personalized session, addressing the unique needs of your organization and providing tailored insights.
Who is MLL-FLOW for?
MLL-FLOW is for early childhood programs that need professional development to support the learning and development of 0-5-year-old dual / multilingual learners! More specifically, Early Childhood Schools, Head Start, Early Head Start, Quality Rating and Improvement Systems (QRIS), School Districts, and other quality improvement initiatives.
What will my program gain through MLL-FLOW?
Participants of MLL-FLOW trainings will learn, plan, and practice evidence-based strategies to support the learning and development of MLLs. Participants who go through MLL-FLOW coaching will receive on-going support as they implement these strategies into their classrooms.
More details?
Why do early childhood programs need MLL-FLOW?
- There are increasing numbers of MLLs.
- Teachers need more MLL support.
- MLL children need to be supported to strive and shine.
- This system is clear, integrated and can be used by all stakeholders, unlike other confusing systems.
How MLL-FLOW is more effective than other systems?
- Consists of a birth to age 5 continuum.
- Developmentally appropriate strategies for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
- Strategies are integrated in a simple way that supports the integral development of children.
- Reinforces other resources that programs may have.
- Supports all developmental areas of the MLL child: including cognitive, cultural, and socio-emotional elements.
- Research has shown this is more effective than simply focusing on language development like other systems do.
What are examples of the professional development services provided once an implementation plan has
been developed?
The implementation plan will be based on the actual needs of the organization.
Below are few possible options:
Leadership Team Training/Consultation:
Provide Flow MLL system-level training and resources for program leadership team such as administrators, directors, technical and professional development staff.
Readiness for change training for staff:
MLL-FLOW Overview Training.
Ongoing Professional Development Training, Coaching, and online resources on I-MLL system:
Body MLL – Heart MLL – Mind MLL
Scale and sustain:
Provide MLL-FLOW affiliate Train-the-Trainer/Coach to your organization’s staff.
Get our informative one-pager detailing the MLL-FLOW program overview directly to your inbox.
By clicking “Download Now” you agree to be added to our email list. The information we collect will only be used to send you relevant information about our services. Don’t worry, we won’t spam your inbox.
How to get started
