Raising children is a journey filled with exciting milestones, and for families who speak more than one language at home, this journey includes the wonderful adventure of learning multiple languages! It’s a unique experience that brings so many benefits, but sometimes, families have questions about how being bilingual might influence a child’s speech and language development. We’re here to explore bilingual child language development together and share some ways you can support your child’s amazing language abilities.

Bilingualism: A Superpower for Your Child’s Brain!

Let’s start with something truly exciting: learning two languages is like giving your child’s brain a fantastic workout! Research shows that growing up bilingual can actually boost brain power in many ways. Children who speak two languages often find it easier to switch between tasks, solve problems creatively, and focus their attention even when there’s noise around. It’s building strong cognitive muscles that can help them in school and throughout their lives! You are giving your child a precious gift that opens doors to different cultures, connections, and ways of seeing the world.

Understanding How Bilingual Kids Learn Language

When children learn two languages at once (simultaneously), or learn a second language after their first (sequentially), their language journey can look a little different from a child learning only one language. And that’s perfectly okay! Their brains are busy building two language systems side-by-side.

Sometimes, you might notice your child:

Mixing languages (Code-Switching): They might use words from both languages in the same sentence, like “Look at the perro!” (Look at the dog!). This isn’t confusion; it’s a smart and natural way for bilinguals to communicate, using all the words they know to express themselves. Adults do it too!
Having a “Silent Period”: When a child is first learning a second language, especially if they are starting school in a new language, they might talk less for a while as they listen and soak everything in. This “silent period” is a normal phase as they build their understanding before they start speaking more.
Having different strengths: They might have a larger vocabulary or feel more comfortable talking about certain topics in one language compared to the other. This often depends on which language they use most often or in specific situations (like Spanish at home, English at school). Their skills in each language are developing, and when you look at both languages together, their overall language knowledge is impressive!

Partnering with the School: English Learner (EL) Support

When your child attends school, they may also have access to special support designed specifically for students who are learning English. Schools often have programs or teachers, sometimes called English as a Second Language (ESL) or English Learner (EL) teachers, whose job is to help children build their English skills while also learning subjects like reading, math, and science. These programs understand that it takes time and specific support to become fluent in a new language for schoolwork. They can provide extra help with vocabulary, understanding lessons, and communicating in the classroom. Don’t hesitate to ask your child’s teacher or the school office about the EL support services available and how they can benefit your child. Working together with the school’s EL staff is another great way to create a strong support network for your child’s language and learning journey.

Busting the Myth: Bilingualism Does NOT Cause Delays

It’s really important to understand that learning two languages does not cause a speech or language disorder. This is a common myth, but it’s simply not true. Think of it this way: if a child has difficulty learning language, they will have difficulty in both languages they are learning, not just the newer one or one over the other.

A true speech or language delay means a child is behind typical milestones for their age, no matter which language they are using. Bilingualism itself is not the reason for a delay. In fact, maintaining and developing bilingual child language development can be very beneficial!

Your Powerful Role: Supporting Communication at Home

You are the heart of your child’s language learning environment. The everyday moments you share are the most valuable opportunities for them to learn and practice communication skills in your family’s languages. You don’t need fancy tools or special lessons – just your natural interactions!

Here are some simple, fun ways you can support your child’s amazing bilingual brain:

Make Talking a Part of Everything:

Narrate your day! Especially when your child is interested! Talk about what you’re doing while cooking, getting dressed, or playing. Ask your child questions and listen to their answers. Use rich vocabulary in all your languages. The more language input they get, the stronger their foundation.
- Instead of just: “Put on your shoes.”
- Try saying: “It’s time to put on your shoes, the blue ones! Let’s put your right shoe on first. Vamos a ponernos los zapatos, los azules! Vamos a poner el zapato derecho primero.“
Read, Read, Read in ALL Your Languages:

Reading is powerful for language development in any language. Snuggle up with books in your home languages. Point to pictures, talk about the story, ask questions, and encourage your child to guess what happens next. Visit the library to find books in different languages!
- During reading: “Look at the big bear! He looks sleepy. Mira el oso grande! Parece que tiene sueño. What do you think he will do?”
Sing, Rhyme, and Tell Stories:

Songs, nursery rhymes, and family stories are wonderful ways to share language and culture. The rhythm and repetition help children learn sounds, words, and sentence patterns. Share traditional songs and tell stories about your family history in your languages.
Play with Language:

Make language fun! Play simple games like “I Spy” focusing on colors or objects in your home languages (“I spy something rojo!” or “I spy something red!”). Describe toys, talk about what you’re building, or act out stories.
Connect with Your Culture and Community:

Use your languages in meaningful ways. Cook traditional foods together, talking about the ingredients and steps. Watch movies or listen to music in your languages. Connect with family members and friends who speak your languages. Attending cultural events can provide great opportunities for your child to hear and use their languages in a broader context.
Be Patient and Celebrate Progress:

Learning languages takes time. Be patient with your child (and yourself!). Celebrate every new word, every attempted sentence, and every effort they make to communicate, no matter which language they use.

When to Seek More Information

While code-switching, silent periods, or having different strengths in each language are typical for bilingual development, it’s always a good idea to chat with a professional if you have concerns about your child’s communication.

You might want to reach out if you notice:

Your child is significantly behind their peers (monolingual or bilingual) in reaching language milestones in both languages.
They struggle to understand simple instructions in either language.
They have very limited vocabulary compared to other children their age, across both languages.
People who speak their home languages have significant difficulty understanding them.
You have a strong gut feeling that something isn’t progressing as expected.

Sharing your observations with your child’s pediatrician, teacher, or an SLP is always a great step. We can work together to understand your child’s development in all their languages.

You are the Key!

Please remember how truly vital your role is in your child’s language journey. By speaking your home languages with pride and creating a nurturing environment where communication is celebrated, you are giving your child an incredible foundation for success. Bilingualism is a gift, and you are the most important person helping your child unwrap it! Keep talking, reading, singing, and playing in all your wonderful languages!

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and suggestions for educational purposes. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment from a certified Speech-Language Pathologist. Please consult with a qualified professional if you have specific concerns about your child’s speech and language development.

Resources

For more information check out these resources:

MDS: You Are Your Child’s MVP: Partnering with SLPs and Teachers for Communication Success

MDS: Your Turn, My Turn: How Playful Turn-Taking Builds Your Child’s Language Development

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