What key challenge do L2 learners in kindergarten face related to vocabulary?

The key challenge that L2 learners in kindergarten face related to vocabulary is the missing years of vocabulary development. Many children entering kindergarten are already familiar with a substantial number of words due to their language exposure in the early years. For L2 learners, especially those who may not have been fully immersed in the language prior to starting school, there is often a significant gap in their vocabulary compared to their native-speaking peers. This lack of exposure can hinder their ability to engage in discussions, understand lessons, and relate to their classmates, making vocabulary acquisition a critical area of focus for educators.

Addressing this gap requires targeted support to help these learners catch up and build a robust vocabulary that will aid in their overall language development and academic success.