Bilingual development is a child learning two or more languages from early childhood. Learning more than one language does not cause speech or language delay, and bilingual children reach language milestones within the same overall timeframe.
Key takeaways
- Mixing words from both languages is a normal stage.
- Each language needs plenty of rich, everyday exposure.
- A delay in both languages should be checked like any other language delay.
What you can do
- Speak the language you are most fluent and comfortable in.
- Read, sing and play in both languages.
- Find chances to hear the less-used language outside the home.
When to talk to your doctor
If your child is behind in both languages, talk to your doctor or a speech and language therapist; being bilingual is not a reason to wait.
Frequently asked questions
No. Experts advise keeping both languages; dropping one does not speed up talking.