Episode 163 | The Power of Translanguaging in Early Learning w/ Elise Genao

What if multilingualism isn't something to overcome—but one of a child's greatest strengths?

In this episode of Our Classroom, Roberto Germán sits down with educator, school leader, and multilingual education advocate Elise Genao to explore the power of translanguaging and why honoring children's full linguistic identities creates stronger learners and more inclusive classrooms.

Drawing from her experience as a teacher, instructional coach, administrator, and consultant, Elise shares how educators can move beyond deficit thinking and embrace language as an asset.

In this conversation, we discuss:

What translanguaging is—and what it is not

Why multilingualism is a strength, not a barrier

Common misconceptions about multilingual learners

Practical classroom strategies that honor students' home languages

The connection between language, identity, and belonging

How school leaders can better support multilingual students and families

Why every educator—not just bilingual teachers—has a role to play

This episode is a reminder that when students are invited to bring all of who they are into the classroom, everyone benefits.