[corlev]

I recently (May 12) had a Russian child put into my class. It is first grade. I want to know how best to help him. He is learning some language, and I concentrate on that, and also concentrate on having him explore toys and activities around the classroom. He is loving, and also quite defiant at times. I know he is also scared, and has a hard time going to a different room for art, music, etc. I'm sure he is operating on overwhelm. He is getting so much attention...I'm sure he's not used to that either. School will be over soon, but I would really like to take him again next year; he will be in first grade again. However, I am afraid he will just want to play, and that he really needs a one-on-one helper, which will not happen right at the beginning of the school year. I am really attached to him, and think about ways to help him constantly...any ideas will be appreciated.

[mjkansas]

I am a speech-language pathologist. Remember even though the child is 7 years old- his language is that of a 1 year old (the length of time he has been in the states). Maybe using a picture system would help (photos of lunch room, music, p.e.) using a photo system of the schedule of activities (math book, p.e. room, reading, libraray, lunch time, etc.). In this way he knows what to expect without having to relie on his language skills. Use any thing that will not have him to only use is language skills - photo systems, sign language, etc.
Have him teach children in Russian the names of common objects. Have a special time for all children to speak Russian (similar to spelling time but naming common items in Russian). This gives him power too. He can do something special.
Talk to your local special education department, they may have more ideas on how to deal with a "language delayed child." Keep in mind, this delay is temporary.
Reading is one of the best ways for a child to learn a new language. So is song. Read to him in English. He sings in Russian and everyone sings along.

Good Luck.
He is lucky to have a teacher who cares.

MJ