Teaching foreign languages to children with learning difficulties presents unique challenges, but with the right methodologies and support, educators can create inclusive and engaging learning environments. The FOCUS Project (Foreign Language Opportunities for Children with Unique Skills), co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme, is designed to do exactly that.

The project brings together nine organizations and educational institutions from Greece, Cyprus, Lithuania, Italy, Slovenia, and Spain. It aims to support primary school foreign language teachers by enhancing their competencies through innovative tools such as Digital Game-Based Learning (DGBL) and reinforcing the soft skills necessary for inclusive classroom management.

At the heart of the project is the newly launched FOCUS Digital Database. This comprehensive and accessible online platform compiles the project’s most valuable resources into one user-friendly space.

A New Resource for Inclusive Teaching

The Digital Database is an essential outcome of the FOCUS project, offering a wide range of research-based materials specifically developed to support foreign language teachers working with children aged 6 to 12 who have learning difficulties. Its goal is to empower educators with effective, practical strategies that help ensure no learner is left behind.

The database includes:

• Best practices in foreign language teaching adapted to students with learning difficulties
• Case studies highlighting successful methodologies applied in real European classrooms
• Interviews with foreign language teachers, speech therapists, and occupational therapists
• Tools and resources to support the development of inclusive and supportive language learning environments

The database is currently available in six languages: English, Greek, Italian, Spanish, Lithuanian, and Slovenian. All content has been carefully curated based on the outcomes of extensive research, fieldwork, and collaboration among project partners. This ensures that the methods presented are both evidence-based and adaptable to different classroom realities.

Best Practices and Case Studies from Across Europe

The database features a collection of best practices and case studies developed through several months of focused research. All documented strategies were implemented in European elementary education systems and specifically targeted children with learning difficulties.

These materials allow educators to explore a diverse set of methodologies, compare classroom experiences, and adopt those that best meet the needs of their students. From differentiated instruction techniques to the integration of digital tools, the case studies present tested and validated approaches that reflect the realities and demands of modern and inclusive classrooms.

Interviews and Insights from Professionals

In addition to practical materials, the database provides access to a series of interviews and focus group findings with professionals involved in the foreign language learning process. Participants include foreign language teachers, speech therapists, and occupational therapists from countries such as Slovenia, Greece, Cyprus, Lithuania, Italy, and Spain.

These professionals offer valuable insights into the challenges and successes they have encountered while working with children with learning difficulties. Their experiences offer real-world context that helps bridge the gap between theory and practice, providing educators with strategies that are grounded in evidence and informed by daily practice.

Why is the FOCUS Database Important?

Inclusive education is not merely an educational goal—it is a fundamental right. The FOCUS Digital Database reflects this principle by giving educators the resources they need to create classrooms where all students can access and benefit from foreign language learning.

By using the database, teachers can:

• Strengthen their instructional practices with proven methodologies
• Build their confidence in supporting students with diverse learning needs
• Gain new perspectives from professionals who are already succeeding in inclusive language education

Explore the Database

The launch of the FOCUS Digital Database marks a significant step forward in supporting inclusive education across Europe. It is an invitation to all educators, school leaders, and education professionals to engage with tested strategies and become part of a community that values equity, accessibility, and lifelong learning.

To explore the database, visit: www.focus-project.eu/database/

Together, we can make foreign language education accessible, effective, and empowering for all children—regardless of their abilities!