Creating rich language environments for more than one language: A work in progress in Flemish childcare

This paper discusses language policy and practices in early educational settings in Flanders (Belgium). It describes the Flemish context and the challenges ECEC face. Stakeholders' beliefs and observed linguistic practices in ECEC in general and in the province of Flemish-Brabant are presented based on a small scale quantitative and qualitative study. We also discuss how major stakeholders have shaped language policy concerning language stimulation and multilingualism in recent years and how a new policy is being implemented in childcare. Finally, we describe additional initiatives taken by regional governments to provide childcare centres with the necessary materials and training to implement this new language policy.