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December 1, 2024 by admin

Barriers Faced by Non-English-Speaking Parents in the US:

In the United States, a significant number of families speak languages other than English, creating unique challenges for non-English-speaking parents. 

As of 2021, approximately 25.7 million, or 8% of individuals aged five or older, reported having limited English proficiency (LEP). The HHS defines individuals with LEP as those who do not speak English as their primary language. These individuals have a limited ability to read, speak, write, or understand English. 

These barriers can profoundly impact various aspects of life, particularly in healthcare, education, and community engagement.

As the U.S. becomes increasingly diverse, understanding these challenges is essential for promoting inclusivity and support for all families. Non-English-speaking parents often struggle to access vital services, comprehend their children’s educational needs, and communicate effectively as their children grow. 

This article will explore the barriers faced by these parents. We’ll talk about issues related to newborn care, challenges in schooling, and the complexities of communication with their children.

Barriers to Newborn Care

Barriers to newborn care are a significant concern for non-English-speaking parents, especially during the critical early stages of a child’s life. Language barriers often create confusion regarding essential health information and medical instructions. Without proper translation services, parents may misunderstand guidelines provided by healthcare professionals, leading to poor decisions about their newborn’s care.

One area where this issue is particularly concerning is in feeding practices. Non-English-speaking parents may unknowingly choose unsafe options like formula feeding, unaware of its potential risks. 

A notable example is the ongoing Similac lawsuit, which claims that these cow’s milk-based formulas increase the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in infants. NEC is a serious condition that can lead to severe health complications and, tragically, death.

TorHoerman Law notes that families allege that Abbott Laboratories, the maker of Similac, failed to warn consumers about the risks of using these formulas. While Similac is medically administered in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), many parents are unaware of the dangers they pose. This highlights the serious consequences of miscommunication and lack of access to proper health information.

Schooling Issues for Non-English Speakers

Non-English-speaking parents often face significant challenges when navigating the educational system, primarily due to inadequate resources for effective communication. Many schools fail to provide essential information—such as details about school events, academic expectations, and available resources—in the parents’ native languages. 

This communication gap severely hinders parental involvement in their children’s education. According to The 74, families that speak a language other than English often face barriers in communication. This forces them to rely on tools like Google Translate from their children or untrained bilingual staff for critical matters.

This reliance on informal translation can lead to misunderstandings and mistrust between families and schools, ultimately harming students’ educational experiences. Advocates highlight that this issue is widespread. Despite being well-known, many parents remain silent about it due to fear or embarrassment.

Furthermore, some parents may not realize they are legally entitled to language services, which exacerbates the disconnect. This lack of support can contribute to lower academic performance and decreased confidence among students.

Communicating with Children as They Grow

As children grow older and become more proficient in English, non-English-speaking parents often face increasing challenges in communication. This shift can lead to a sense of isolation for both parents and children.

According to Statista, in 2021, approximately 21.3 percent of schoolchildren in the United States spoke a language other than English at home. This figure represents a slight decrease from 22.6 percent in 2019.

As children navigate their education and peer interactions primarily in English, they may inadvertently take on the role of cultural intermediaries for their parents. This role reversal can place undue pressure on children who are still learning to express themselves and comprehend complex subjects. 

The inability to communicate openly can lead to misunderstandings within families and hinder emotional bonding. Consequently, non-English-speaking parents may miss out on significant moments in their children’s lives, further impacting family relationships.

Lack of Access to Resources

Another barrier faced by non-English-speaking parents is the lack of access to essential resources and services. Many community programs that provide support for parenting skills, educational workshops, or health information are primarily offered in English. This exclusion limits non-English-speaking families from benefiting from valuable resources that could enhance their parenting skills and overall well-being.

Additionally, many non-English-speaking parents work long hours or multiple jobs. This makes it difficult for them to attend workshops or meetings that could provide necessary information about child-rearing practices or educational support systems.

The absence of culturally relevant resources further exacerbates these challenges. Non-English-speaking parents may feel disconnected from community support networks that could help them navigate parenting in a new country.

Language Barriers to Accessing Healthcare

Non-English-speaking parents frequently encounter significant challenges when accessing healthcare services for their children. According to KFF, adults with LEP report worse health status compared to their English-proficient counterparts. For instance, 34% of adults with LEP describe their physical health as “fair” or “poor,” compared to 19% of those proficient in English.

Moreover, adults with LEP are less likely to have had a healthcare visit in the past three years (86% vs. 95%) and are more likely to be uninsured (33% vs. 7%). This lack of access can severely impact their ability to seek timely medical attention for their children. Without proper communication and support, non-English-speaking parents may inadvertently jeopardize their children’s health outcomes.

FAQs

What are the barriers to learning English as a foreign language?

Barriers to learning English as a foreign language include limited access to quality education and lack of exposure to native speakers. Other challenges include cultural differences, fear of making mistakes, and limited resources such as textbooks or online tools. Additionally, learners may struggle with pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary retention.

How do language barriers affect social interactions among students?

Language barriers can hinder social interactions among students by limiting communication, leading to feelings of isolation and frustration. Non-English-speaking students may struggle to participate in group activities or build friendships, affecting their sense of belonging. This can impact their overall academic performance and emotional well-being.

What resources are available for non-English-Speaking parents?

Non-English-speaking parents can access resources like language assistance programs, bilingual educators, and interpreters provided by schools and community organizations. Additionally, many government websites offer translated materials, and non-profit organizations offer support for navigating healthcare, education, and legal systems. Online translation tools can also be helpful. So, the best part about compass mobile websites are they are available in non-native language at least that is what my friend referred me to.

Non-English-speaking parents in the U.S. face numerous barriers that impact their ability to access healthcare services, engage with their children’s education, and communicate effectively with their families. These challenges highlight the need for improved language access services across various sectors, including healthcare and education. 

By providing adequate translation services and resources tailored for non-English-speaking families, communities can foster inclusivity and support the well-being of all families. Addressing these barriers is essential for the success of non-English-speaking parents and for the healthy development of their children.

Filed Under: Blog

November 27, 2024 by admin

How to Visit Gauth and Navigate Gauth Effectively

Are you searching for a reliable platform to solve math problems quickly and accurately? Gauth, a math-solving platform, is a game-changer for students, parents, and educators who need instant, detailed solutions to complex math problems. If you’re looking for an easy-to-use math assistant, look no further! This guide will walk you through how to Visit gauthmath.com on its website, what services it offers, and how to make the most of its features.

What is Gauth?

Before diving into how to visit Gauth, let’s clarify what the platform is all about. Gauth is a math-solving platform designed to help students tackle various math problems across multiple topics. Whether you’re struggling with algebra, geometry, trigonometry, or calculus, Gauth offers detailed, step-by-step solutions that make understanding easier. What makes Gauth stand out is its use of AI to ensure accuracy and provide real-time help with math problems.

Why Would You Like Gauth?

Though there are many applications and websites for arithmetic, Gauth excels for a few reasons.

  • Instant Solutions: You can find answers precisely and quickly.Unlike other systems that merely respond, Gauth offers thorough stages to assist in understanding the process.
  • Simple User Interface: Even novices may easily traverse the platform.From elementary arithmetic to high calculus, Gauth flexibly covers a broad range of mathematical subjects. Knowing what Gauth is now will help us navigate the procedures to obtain and apply it.

Visit Gauth: A Methodical Guide

Step 1: Open your preferred browser

First, you will need a laptop, desktop, tablet, or smartphone with an internet connection to access Gauth. When ready, open your chosen browser—Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, or another. Usually compatible with most web browsers, Gauth should not cause any problems.

Step 2:  Type the URL found in the Search Bar

You will have to input the Gauth URL once your browser opens. Type www.gauthmath.com into the address bar of the browser and click Enter. This will take you to the official Gauth website.

Step 3:  tour the homepage

After you get on the site, pause to investigate. Navigating through the clean, simple style is effortless. On the webpage, you can find many highlights including:

  • Math Problem Solver: Enter your arithmetic problems for immediate answers here.
  • How It Works: An area detailing Gauth’s methodical solution approach.
  • Information about how users and students could interact and grow together forms the Gauth Community.

To get acquainted with Gauth’s services, kindly skim around the website.

Step 4:  create an account (optional but advised)

While you may use Gauth without registering, signing up preserves your work and grants access to other tools. To create an account:

  • Clicking the Sign-Up button is usually found in the upper-right area of the webpage.
  • To speed up registration, enter your email address, generate a password, or sign in using your Google or Facebook account.
  • Once registered, you can monitor prior issues, record your fixes, and receive more individualized assistance.

Step 5: make use of extra features

Apart from addressing challenges, Gauth provides further services meant to improve your educational process. Access a range of practice problems to enhance your arithmetic abilities.

For more individualized help, Gauth also links you with expert math instructors. Students working on complex subjects or preparing for tests will notably benefit from this function. Take part in math challenges and contests to evaluate your knowledge and take on kids.

Step 6: Get the Gauth mobile app

Although Gauth’s web-based platform is relatively readily available, it also provides a mobile app with the same outstanding capabilities. Download the app using these steps:

  • Visit the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, depending on your gadget.
  • Look in the app store’s search field for Gauth.
  • Click Download, then run the app on your tablet or smartphone.

Like the website, the app lets users connect with tutors, receive step-by-step explanations, and solve arithmetic problems. Students who need math help during commutes or study breaks will find it ideal.

Troubleshooting Common Issues When Visiting Gauth

Occasionally, you encounter minor issues when accessing the Gauth platform. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

  • Page Not Loading: If the page fails to load, ensure you have a stable internet connection. Refresh the browser or try opening Gauth in a different web browser.
  • Login Issues: Double-check your email and password if you need help you’re signing in. If you’ve forgotten your password, reset it using the “Forgot Password” option.
  • Slow Response: Gauth’s platform relies on an AI system that typically processes queries quickly, but if the response time is slow, try closing other tabs or clearing your browser cache to speed things up.

Conclusion

Visiting Gauth at www.gauthmath.com is simple and user-friendly. Whether you’re a student looking for quick math solutions or want to improve your math skills, Gauth is a versatile tool that meets various learning needs. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll be able to easily navigate the platform and make the most of its powerful features. From solving math problems to connecting with expert tutors, Gauth is your one-stop solution for mastering mathematics.

Filed Under: Blog

November 21, 2024 by admin

How to Remove Backgrounds from Videos Without a Green Screen

Video editing has come a long way in recent years, and one of the coolest features is the ability to remove backgrounds. Imagine being able to cut out the clutter behind you and place yourself anywhere—without even using a green screen. This is a game-changer for many content creators, social media influencers, and professionals who want to make their videos look more polished and professional.

Traditionally, people have used green screens to change video backgrounds. But due to advanced technology, we no longer need them. Now, a simple and good video editor for PC can easily remove the background from your videos with just a few clicks, using smart features that detect and isolate the subject.

In this guide, we’ll get to know how this works and why you must try it yourself.

Understanding Video Background Removal

Video background removal is the process of erasing or replacing the background behind a person or object in a video. This means you can make it look like you’re standing on a beach, in a busy city, or even in outer space without ever leaving your room.

This was once only possible with green screens, but now software can detect and remove the background using artificial intelligence (AI).

How Does It Work Without a Green Screen?

Green screens work by setting a single bright color (green) that can be easily removed by software, making it easy to add a new background. But if you don’t have a green screen, modern tools like background remover can use AI to analyze your video, determine the main subject, and separate it from everything else.

This is similar to how facial recognition works on your phone. The software identifies patterns, edges, and colors to isolate the main subject and erase the rest.

Tips for Better Background Removal Results

Removing backgrounds without a green screen is easier than ever, but there are still some tricks to get the best results. Here are a few tips:

  1. Choose a Plain Background for Filming

While AI tools can remove the background, it helps if the background is not too busy. If you film in front of a plain wall, the software will have an easier time figuring out what should stay and what should go.

  1. Ensure Good Lighting

Good lighting is a key part of any video shoot, but it’s especially important for background removal. Shadows can make it hard for the software to identify where the subject ends and the background begins. Try to film in a well-lit area, or use extra lights to make sure the subject is clearly visible.

  1. Avoid Wearing Colors Similar to the Background

If your shirt is the same color as the wall behind you, the software might get confused and erase parts of you along with the background. It’s best to wear clothing that contrasts with your surroundings to make it easier for the tool to do its job.

How to Remove Background Using the CapCut Desktop Video Editor

Here’s how the CapCut desktop video editor can help you in removing your video’s background without a green screen:

Step 1: Upload Video

To remove the video background without the green screen, download and install the CapCut desktop video editor on your PC. After launching it, click on the “Import” button and import your desired video for background removal.

Step 2: Remove Background

Once your video is loaded, go to the editing options and select the “Remove BG” feature > Auto Removal. The CapCut desktop video editor will use AI to automatically identify and separate the subject from the background.

Once the background is cleanly removed, you can replace it with a new one, such as a solid color, a classroom or anything you want. This way, your final video will look professional and polished, ready to make an impact.

Step 3: Save and Share

Once you’re happy with how the video looks, it’s time to save and export it. Choose the preferred resolution and format (e.g., MP4, MOV) and click “Export.”

The video will be saved to your device with the new background applied, ready for sharing on social media, presentations, or wherever you need it.

Practical Applications for Background Removal Without Green Screen

Removing backgrounds from videos is helpful in many situations, such as:

  1. For Social Media Content Creation

If you’re making videos for platforms like YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok, quick and easy background removal is perfect. It saves time, and you can add fun, creative backgrounds that match your content’s theme.

  1. For Educational Content

Whether you’ve recorded your lectures in a cluttered room with a messy background or a car while traveling, removing the background can make you look more professional. It also allows you to add branded or themed backgrounds. Moreover, here you can also add auto captions to your video to make it more engaging and accessible.

  1. For Creating Promotional Videos

If you’re making an ad or promotional video, background removal can help you place your product or message in a setting that grabs attention. It’s a great way to make your content stand out.

Conclusion

Technology has made it easier than ever to remove backgrounds from videos without needing a green screen. Whether you’re creating content for social media, making professional presentations, or just experimenting with video editing, there are plenty of tools, like the CapCut desktop video editor, that are available to help.

By following a few simple tips, you can get great results that make your videos look polished and impressive. So, why not give it a try.

Filed Under: Blog

November 18, 2024 by admin

Can Children With Speech Impairments Write English Well?

Children with speech and language disorders have problems reading and writing, even in their native tongue. For example, a child with speech impairments might struggle to pronounce basic English words clearly, affecting their ability to read and write fluently.

Did you know speech disorder diagnoses doubled during the COVID-19 pandemic? By the end of 2023, speech pathologists witnessed a massive increase in language and communication challenges among young children.

Thankfully, the right treatment and assistance can help these children overcome such challenges. For example, Winston Churchill overcame his language and speech impediment by practicing his diction and rehearsing tongue twisters.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss how a child with a speech impairment can write English well.

Understanding Speech and Language Disorders

Nahiyan Siyam used to have problems speaking clearly due to their speech impairment when they were young. In an interview, they mentioned how helpless and embarrassed they felt. A child with speech and language issues might be going through the same. 

But what exactly does this impairment entail? 

It’s a culmination of various conditions that affect a child’s ability to communicate. For example, children with English as their native tongue will have trouble speaking or writing vowels, alphabets, letters, etc. It can be categorized as:

  • Articulation disorders: Involves difficulty producing specific sounds.
  • Fluency disorders: This includes interruption in speech flow, such as stuttering.
  • Voice disorders: Affects pitch, quality, and volume.

All these affect a child’s communication and social development. Both parents and teachers must understand these signs for early identification and intervention. 

How Does Speech Disorder Affect English Writing Skills?

Children with speech impairments will have problems reading and writing, be it in English, Spanish, or any other language. In America, 1/12 children (three to seventeen) have been diagnosed with a disorder related to language, speech, or voice.

Let’s say your child has a stutter. It’ll definitely be hard for them to pronounce a combination of English consonants and vowels, leading to challenges in developing writing skills. 

Here are a few more issues children can face:

  • They’ll find it hard to construct sentences, leading to fragmented and incomplete writing.
  • They cannot articulate thoughts verbally, causing struggles in expressing and organizing ideas in written English.
  • The child will have issues with grammar and vocabulary, hindering their ability to convey meaningful written sentences.

That’s why targeted interventions focused on speech and writing can help the child express themselves clearly. They can even develop their literacy abilities once they overcome their communication challenges.

4 Ways You Can Help a Child Overcome Speech Problems

According to Ithaca College, normal language and speech ability are central factors to having a fulfilling human experience. If children cannot communicate properly and convey their needs, they’ll have issues expressing their personality and developing relationships.

Here are a few ways you can help your child overcome their speech problems and learn to speak English as their native tongue:

#1. Early Identification and Intervention

A child with speech impairments will show signs early on. Parents and teachers must recognize the delays in language and speech to offer timely support. 

If not addressed, the child might develop written language difficulties. You must engage caregivers, healthcare professionals, and educators in monitoring their developmental milestones. 

Addressing these challenges during a child’s developmental stage can:

  • Help your child improve communication skills.
  • Enhance their academic success and English writing proficiency.
  • Fostering social integration and confidence.

#2. Role of a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)

An SLP, or speech therapist, is a healthcare professional licensed to treat communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults. They educate families and caregivers about this disorder and how to improve the child’s quality of life.

As of 2022, America had over 178,000 people working as SLPs. Among them, 95.2% were women, and only 4.83% were men. However, don’t choose based on gender. Instead, find a therapist with a Master’s degree.

Someone with an offline or online Master’s in Speech Pathology degree will be proficient enough to help your child overcome speech problems. They’ll have three years of clinical experience through virtual or real-life simulations under their belt. It’s also quite hard to get into the program, as the course requires a 3.0 GPA with 25 observation hours and two letters of recommendation. 

All these prove the following about SLPs with a Master’s degree:

  • They can assess, diagnose, and treat your child’s language comprehension and speech fluency issues.
  • The SLP can develop a personalized treatment plan anywhere—in a school, hospital, or private practice.

#3. Parental Support and Involvement

Along with the SLP’s guidance, guardians and parents must also support the child to overcome speech impairments. You must:

  • Learn effective strategies to enhance their communication and writing skills at home.
  • Engage in daily English language-rich speech exercises to encourage open dialogue (both spoken and written).
  • Monitor the child’s development to inform the SLP about any concerns or issues with their communication skills.
  • Foster a supportive atmosphere to celebrate small achievements, motivating the child to improve their reading and writing skills.

All these will positively impact speech development. Researchers note that parents can create a rich linguistic atmosphere for the children to learn and practice English phrases and words.

#4. Continuous Support from Everyone

The SLP will also work with technology and resources to enhance the child’s experience with learning speech and language. They’ll use tools like interactive apps, online resources, and speech recognition software to foster communication skills through engagement. 

Schools can also create an inclusive learning environment to help them. For example, the classroom can have adaptive materials to accommodate diverse learning needs. Due to inclusivity, about 95% of children registered under the IDEA enrolled in regular schools.

Caregivers must also monitor their progress regularly to help educators and therapists assess the effectiveness of their techniques. They’ll also adjust the strategies based on the child’s evolving needs. All these will help the child learn to speak and read English in a supportive setting.

The Bottom Line

A child with speech impairments might have issues with writing English. They face this challenge because they struggle with phonological awareness and communication barriers.

That’s why caregivers must identify speech and language problems early on. Based on the signs, an SLP with a Master’s degree will help create tailored interventions and offer ongoing support. Educators can also create an inclusive environment by using technology, effective teaching strategies, and fostering parental involvement.

All these will ultimately help the child deal with their speech and language issues, leading them to develop strong writing skills.

Filed Under: Blog

November 18, 2024 by admin

Professional Development for ESL Teachers: 4 Ways to Boost Your Resume:

A foolproof way to advance your career? Investing in professional development. 

And as an English as a Second Language—ESL—teacher, you know that there’s always more to learn. Yet, professional development for ESL teachers is often overlooked. Regardless, it is important. It is one of the best ways to keep your skills fresh. 

Professional development can also make your resume stand out. With over 946,576 ESL teachers already there in the U.S. and more entering, it’s important to find ways to make yourself a more competitive candidate. That can really pay off. 

Here are a few ways you can boost your resume as an ESL teacher and grow as an educator. 

#1 Get TEFL or TESOL Certified 

Earning a TEFL or TESOL can make you stand out as an ESL teacher. 

TEFL – Teaching English as a Foreign Language – and TESOL – Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages – are often the minimum qualifications for many teaching jobs. If you haven’t secured one yet, it’s never too late.

A TEFL or TESOL certification shows employers that you’ve received solid training in the basics of teaching English, including lesson planning and language instruction techniques.

The two, though used interchangeably, are different from each other. According to Forbes, TEFL involves teaching English to non-native speakers in non-English-speaking countries. TESOL, on the other hand, refers to teaching English to non-native speakers in English-speaking countries. 

You can complete the course in person or online—the latter is the most common way, though.

A TEFL certification requires around 100 hours of coursework, while a TESOL involves about 120 hours of study. Some programs, however, may require more practicum hours. Those might be beneficial if you need teaching experience or more in-depth training. 

#2 Pursue an Ed.D. Program

Aiming to level up your career in ESL teaching? A Doctor of Education or Ed.D. could be the golden ticket. 

This degree is ideal if you’re interested in leadership roles, especially in ESL or bilingual education settings. Possible leadership roles, according to Marymount University, could include chief learning officer, policy maker, curriculum director, training and development manager, and school superintendent. 

Ed.D. programs often explore advanced topics like instructional design, educational policy, and methods for supporting diverse learners. 

With expertise in instructional design, you can develop lessons and curricula that address the unique needs of ESL students. Knowledge of educational policy will allow you to advocate for policies that support ESL programs, funding, and resources to improve the learning experience for ESL students.

These programs also focus on teaching methods and strategies that cater to diverse learners, so you will be able to create inclusive learning environments. 

Many universities offer part-time or online options. Opting for them will be the best bet since you can keep teaching while studying. An Ed.D. degree is a serious commitment. But it’s worth considering if you’re ready to make a big impact. 

#3 Take Part in ESL Conferences

To stay sharp as an ESL teacher, attend conferences. 

Many ESL organizations offer annual conferences with sessions on everything from innovative teaching methods to language acquisition research.

The TESOL International Association, for instance, is holding an International Convention & Expo in March 2025 at the Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach, California. This convention—the largest in-person event in the English language teaching field—offers professional development opportunities to professionals worldwide who work in various contexts and at all levels. 

Attending this conference would be beneficial since it will allow you to dive deep into the field, explore new resources, and participate in hands-on workshops. All these can transform your approach to teaching.

Plus, adding conference attendance to your resume shows potential employers that you’re committed to professional growth and staying at the forefront of ESL education. 

#4 Become an IELTS Examiner

Have a TEFL or TESOL certification and three to five years of teaching experience? You’re qualified to be an IELTS examiner—why not become one?

Getting certified as an examiner for exams like the IELTS requires rigorous training. Adding it to your resume will demonstrate that you’re a committed, qualified professional.

As an IELTS examiner, you’ll be trained to assess candidates’ English proficiency in speaking and writing according to strict guidelines. 

You’ll also learn about the grading rubrics and develop skills that will help you guide students more effectively through test preparation. This certification can be a great asset, especially if you’re working with students aiming for university admission.

Adding professional development activities to your resume can show employers that you’re serious about your career as an ESL teacher. 

Whether you’re pursuing an Ed.D. or getting certified as an IELTS examiner, every skill you pick up will strengthen your resume and make you a better teacher. So go ahead—invest in yourself. 

Filed Under: Blog

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