Scoping Review of Linguistically Responsive Practices for Young Children Who Are Refugees

Abstract

Young refugee populations continue to grow. This scoping review aims to identify and summarize studies of programs that provide linguistically responsive practices for children who are refugees. Secondary aims of this review are: (a) to identify the gaps in the literature, and (b) to suggest future research and policy directions. By studying key features of linguistically responsive practices for children who are refugees, we can better understand the important components of a high-quality inclusive and equitable environment for all children, including those with minority language backgrounds. We conducted an electronic database search and identified 14 studies. Studies varied in location, country of origin, and language support. The findings from this review revealed a critical need to develop, implement, and study linguistically responsive programs for children who are refugees in host countries.