Post: Does Speaking Another Language Confuse your Child?

Does Speaking Another Language Confuse your Child? The short answer is NO. As a parent raising a bilingual child, you may have heard concerns about the potential confusion of learning two languages at once, but this is a common misconception. Research has shown that bilingualism does not lead to confusion. In fact, we encourage you to keep exposing your child to multiple languages, as it provides many advantages. We are conveniently located in 626 N. Alafaya Trail Suite 206 – 5A Orlando, Florida 32828. For more information, please contact us or book an appointment online.

Does Speaking Another Language Confuse your Child? The simple answer is NO. As a parent raising a bilingual child, you might have encountered concerns about your child’s potential confusion from learning two languages simultaneously, but this is a widespread misunderstanding. Numerous studies have debunked this myth, affirming that bilingualism does not cause confusion. We strongly encourage you to continue exposing your child to multiple languages as it offers numerous benefits.

It’s natural for parents to worry if their bilingual child seems to have fewer words than their monolingual peers. However, it’s crucial to understand that a bilingual child’s language isn’t two monolingual children in one body but a unique blend of both languages. This might lead to varied language milestones, not necessarily following the same order or quantity of words as monolingual children. For instance, while language milestones might indicate a child should know 50 words by age two, a bilingual child might meet this benchmark when counting words across both languages.

If concerns persist, seeking an evaluation from a certified bilingual speech-language pathologist who comprehends these nuances is recommended.

Addressing Concerns about Speech and Language Delays

Even if a child is showing signs of speech or language delays or has a diagnosis, bilingualism does not further complicate the situation. Research affirms that bilingualism doesn’t cause confusion or delays. If a child experiences speech or language delays, it generally occurs in both languages. Bilingual children facing language impairments encounter challenges similar to those faced by monolingual children with the same impairment degree. Notably, children with language difficulties perform equally well in bilingual education settings as in monolingual settings.

Concerns About School Performance and Social Skills

If a child appears to mix languages or faces challenges expressing themselves in one language, it’s a normal process. In fact, bilingual children often possess a larger vocabulary than their monolingual peers, providing them with more tools for communication. 

If your child is starting a school where the language is different than the one that they speak at home, there may be a period where your child may stop talking, this is called the “silent period” when the child understands but doesn’t immediately speak the new language. This transition period can last for weeks, and it’s essential to support the child and inform teachers about this process.

Research consistently debunks the notion that bilingualism impacts social skills negatively. On the contrary, it enables a better understanding of other cultures, enhances participation in diverse social groups, and promotes empathy and inclusion.

How Bilingual Parents Can Help Their Children

• Repetition is key. Children need to hear new words multiple times before using them.

• Provide verbal models to teach correct pronunciation and encourage repetition.

• Offer verbal prompts to guide the child in remembering new words.

• Use scaffolding techniques to enhance their language by expanding on what they say.

• Patience is essential. Recognize that language development is a unique process for each child.

Benefits of Bilingualism

• Enhances brain function

• Cultivates cultural awareness

• Boosts academic performance

• Improves job market competitiveness

• Sustains mental acuity for longer periods

• Facilitates travel and learning new languages

• Fosters empathy and inclusion

Encouraging bilingualism in your child offers a multitude of advantages, and as parents, your support and understanding play a vital role in this incredible linguistic journey.

However if you have any concerns about your child’s speech, do not hesitate to contact a speech therapist, you can find speech therapists in your area.