From Language Learning to Meaning-Making: Early Childhood Language Education, Cultural Identity, and Lived Experiences

Author's Information:

Yi-Huang Shih

Center of Teacher Education, Minghsin University of Science and Technology, Hsinchu, Taiwan

Shih-Chieh Kao

Department of Early Childhood and Family Education, National Taipei University of Education, Taipei, Taiwan

Vol 3 No 9 (2026):Volume 03 Issue 09 September 2026

Page No.: 1171-1176

Abstract:

This article seeks to explore the relationships among early childhood language education, cultural identity, and lived experiences, and further considers how early childhood language education can move beyond “language learning” toward “meaning-making,” positioning language as an important medium through which young children understand their lives, connect with culture, and develop a sense of self and cultural identity.

KeyWords:

cultural identity, early childhood education, early childhood language education, lived experiences, young children

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