Growing Up Bilingual : What Parents Should Know

Raising a bilingual child can feel exciting, confusing—and sometimes a little overwhelming. If you’re wondering whether speaking more than one language at home might delay your child’s language development, you’re not alone. As a speech-language pathologist, I get this question often.

The good news? Bilingualism does not cause language delays. In fact, it offers lifelong cognitive, social, and cultural benefits. Let’s explore how you can support your child’s language development at home—even if you're using more than one language.

🌍 What Is Bilingualism?

Bilingualism means that a child is exposed to (and ideally uses) two or more languages regularly. This can happen when:

• Parents each speak different languages

• A child hears one language at home and another at daycare or school

• Families speak a heritage language at home and a community language outside

Every bilingual journey is different—and that’s perfectly okay.

💬 Will Bilingualism Confuse My Child?

No. Children are amazing language learners. They can learn to separate and use two languages, even if they sometimes mix them (called code-switching)—which is completely normal and temporary. Think of it as part of the process.

Children might take a little longer to start talking, but their development follows the same general milestones as monolingual children.

🧠 What Are the Benefits of Bilingualism?

✔️ Cognitive flexibility: Bilingual kids often develop strong problem-solving and multitasking skills

✔️ Social advantages: They can connect with a wider range of people and cultures

✔️ Long-term learning: Being bilingual can make it easier to learn other languages later on

✔️ Family connection: Speaking a home language can help children connect deeply with family and heritage

🏡 How Can I Support My Child’s Languages at Home?

Here are some easy, natural ways to support both languages—without pressure:

1. Be consistent, but flexible

You don’t have to split languages 50/50. Some families follow “one parent, one language,” while others use one language at home and another outside. Do what feels right and sustainable for your family.

2. Use your strongest language

Speak the language you feel most comfortable using. Children benefit most when adults speak in rich, fluent ways—not when we struggle to use a less familiar language.

3. Read in both languages

Books are a great way to build vocabulary. If possible, have books in both languages—or tell stories orally in your home language.

4. Celebrate both cultures

Language and culture go hand in hand. Celebrate holidays, cook traditional foods, and use songs or rhymes from each culture.

5. Be patient

Language development takes time. A bilingual child’s vocabulary may be split between two languages—but that’s okay! It adds up.

🧑‍⚕️ When to Consult a Speech-Language Pathologist

If your child:

• Isn’t using words or gestures by 18 months

• Has trouble understanding simple instructions

• Struggles in both languages (not just one)…then it may be helpful to talk to a speech-language pathologist.

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👉 At Clinique d'Orthophonie Andrea Rezendes, we support bilingual families every step of the way—whether you're just starting your journey or have questions about your child’s progress.

💬 Have Questions?

Feel free to contact us to book a parent coaching session or learn more about how we can help. We also offer guidance to families waiting for public services, or who are looking for tips to support their child at home.