Can bilingualism cause a speech delay?
If you’re a bilingual family, or thinking about introducing your child to a second language, this is for you!
Questions about bilingualism come up a lot, and we love chatting about this because it makes us feel so lucky to live in such a vibrant and diverse community/world! We thought we’d take a moment to address your questions in a blog post so you can get all of the info you need in one place.
The Myths About Bilingualism
There are a lot of myths about bilingualism, many suggesting that introducing a second language isn’t a good idea or that there’s a right and a wrong time to do it. Some say that introducing a second language can confuse a child who’s just learning, and some work hard to convince parents that there’s only one right way to do it.
If you want to teach your child two languages, please don’t let these myths deter you-- they really are just myths!
To clear up some of the confusion, we wanted to share some information that I think you’ll find really helpful.
Is it okay to teach my child a second language or will it cause a problem with talking?
Yes! In fact, if you can do it, it’s a great idea. There are so many advantages to being bilingual!
Is there a right or wrong time/way to teach two languages?
No, there are many ways to go about teaching two languages that all have value. You can start early, start when they’re in school, speak just one language at home, or mix it up.
If you’re considering teaching a second language, find a way that works best for your family, and go for it! (also, see below!)
Will bilingualism cause speech delays?
Good news! Bilingualism does NOT cause speech and/or language delays. Children all over the world learn two (or more) languages with ease.
How To Help Your Child Learn Two Languages
If you’ve been wanting to teach your child a second language but have held off before because you’re unsure of how to go about it, we hope these tips will help you decide on a path forward.
(And if you’re already teaching your child a second language, keep going! Maybe you’ll learn some new info or ideas to help supplement what you’re already doing.)
Speak Mainly In The Language You’re Comfortable In
Speak to your child mainly in the language you feel most comfortable speaking. This way, you can help them build a strong language foundation.
Use Books, Musics and TV
Use books, music, TV and videos to help you teach them. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association recommends reading, listening to music and watching children’s programming in both languages with your child. These are great tools that can help your child learn not only a new language, but also their letters, colours, numbers, and more.
Create Opportunities to Speak Both Languages
Give your child plenty of opportunities to hear, see, and speak both languages during their day. Books, music and TV are great ways to do this, but of course you’ll also want to include lots of conversation (even if you’re the only one talking while they’re really young) and other exposure to the new language.
A Few Considerations for Parents of Bilingual Kids
It’s Okay If They Mix Up The Languages
Know that it's totally normal for kids to mix grammar rules, or use words from each language in the same sentence when they are learning to speak. Learning two languages is a lot for them to figure out, but they will get there, and this is a normal step in them becoming bilingual.
Their Dominant Language May Change
Whatever language your child speaks best is considered their dominant language, but that language may change as they grow and learn. This is completely normal!
One Language Per Sentence
Although your child may mix the languages, try your best to stick with one language within each sentence. This ensures that they’ll have an opportunity to hear the proper grammar. I know this can be so hard to do sometimes, but stick with it! You might feel like you’re ‘practicing’ as much as they are, and that’s okay!
When To See a Speech Language Pathologist
As always, whenever you have concerns about your child's language development (for bilingual children difficulties will be present in BOTH language), seek professional help as early as you can to provide the support they may need.
Please remember, if it seems like your child is having a hard time learning language, don't assume it's because they are learning more than one language. There might be an underlying language-learning difficulty, and there is support available.
Early intervention (which just means getting help early if a child is not meeting milestones) is key.
Learn To Encourage Speech and Language Development
Many bilingual families have taken our online courses! The concepts you will learn are relevant, no matter which language your family speaks.
If you’re ready to learn to encourage more speech and language development with your child, check out our baby and toddler courses!
