Teaching a child two languages: Bilingualism
What is Bilingualism?
Bilingualism refers the ability to speak two languages. Some feel it means that the individual should have equal skills in both languages. Others feel that it refers to speaking two languages and it is possible for the individual to be more fluent in one language than the other.
Did we cause my child’s speech delay by speaking two languages at home?
No you did not. Many cultures around the world teach their children two or more languages from infancy. There is no research indicating that being exposed to two languages causes a speech-language delay. If fact new research indicates that once your child or any child has mastered a language they can learn another.
I have personally seen children with autism and developmental delays learn to speak their native language, English and sign language. It is important to be a good speech model for your child. Speaking poor English will not help a child learn the language. I recommend the family speak the language they can speak most fluently at home. If you are fluent in both languages check out the activity section for fun teaching ideas at home. If not there are many bilingual resources, DVD's and games that teach a variety of languages and sign language.
How can a Speech Pathologist tell if a child is language delayed or has a speech problem if they speak and hear two languages?
The SLP will ask you many questions about how your child communicates at home with a variety of family members, with sitters, and at preschool. The SLP will test or play with the child using both languages to determine the child’s level of communicating in both. The SLP will determine whether the child has a true language delay in both languages or is following typical patterns of young bilingual learners. It is preferable to find a bilingual SLP that has knowledge of the linguistic rules and phonology of both languages. You will play a big part in the evaluation and it will help to make a list of what words and phrases you are hearing and in what language to take with you.
When should I start teaching my child another language?
Many infants are exposed to multiple languages from the beginning. Most agree that if a child has a good foundation in one language it is easier to learn a second language. New research indicates that starting early is best and is becomes difficult after 12 years of age. When bilingualism begins before adolescence pronunciation of the new language is often better.
My child speaks our language, Spanish, perfectly. He will start school and he does not use any English. Should I take him to a speech-language pathologist?
No, the SLP evaluates and treats children delayed in both languages.
We have been speaking our native language (French) to our children and we just moved to Florida. I am putting my children in daycare where they will be speaking English and a little Spanish what should I expect?
The teachers at the school can expect that the children may not say much for the first 4 to 7 months. Once they begin using some English, often both English words and words from your native language may be said in the same sentence
(also known as code switching). This is to be expected. After a brief period of word switching, the acquisition of the new language most often proceeds without intervention.
Research suggests an advantage of learning two or more languages is in cognitive flexibility. Learning a second language may increase divergent thinking, concept formation, general reasoning and verbal abilities.