Many mainstream classrooms in primary schools have become increasingly diverse in terms of the cultural and linguistic backgrounds of children attending. For a growing number of children the language of instruction may not be the language, which the child uses, in the home environment. This has led to a need to consider and meet the learning needs of the children concerned.’ -- National Council for Curriculum Assessment, Primary School Curriculum

This need has not being addressed yet! Currently there are no language books by children for children in Irish schools to support linguistic minorities. In Ireland we have a critical timeframe in which to help newcomers integrate into Irish society to ensure social diversity is respected and promoted.

It is vitally important that schools create an environment in which all children are free to show their own creativity and fluency in their first language. It is also important that schools reflect and affirm diversity of cultures, ethnicity and religious backgrounds, which will help children from ethnic minorities to be and feel valued, accepted and supported.

Programme

Kids’ Own are addressing this need by providing an opportunity for children and teachers to work together to develop books that promote and celebrate minority languages in schools and in the wider community.