Do bilingual children have more difficulties in language development?
Do bilingual children have more difficulties in language development? This is a frequent question among parents and educators. Language development in bilingual children may follow a different rhythm than in monolingual children, but this does not necessarily mean that there is a delay. In this article, we analyze the impact of bilingualism on children’s language development according to scientific evidence.
Bilingual children and language development: is it a problem?
For many years, it was thought that exposing a child to more than one language could lead to confusion or speech delays. However, scientific evidence has disproved this myth. Current studies show that bilingual children develop their language skills in a completely natural way, although they distribute their vocabulary between the two languages.
For example, a bilingual child may know 50 words in Spanish and 50 in English, while a monolingual child will know 100 in one language. But both have the same total number of words.
Differences, not difficulties
Bilingual children can:
- Take a little longer to begin speaking (but within normal developmental ranges).
- Using words from both languages in the same sentence (code-switching), which is a natural and healthy behavior.
- Have a more limited vocabulary in each language separately, but a comparable or superior overall vocabulary
These differences do not indicate a language disorder.
Bilingual children and language development: when to worry?
Bilingualism does not cause language disorders, but a bilingual child can also have difficulties, just like any other child. Some warning signs include:
- Lack of simple sentences at age 3 in both languages
- Difficulty understanding simple instructions
- Significant delay in comparison with other children in the same environment.
In these cases, the intervention of a speech therapist is key.
Bilingual children and language development: the role of speech therapy
Speech therapy does not seek to “correct” bilingualism, but rather to accompany language development while respecting both languages. A speech therapist trained in bilingualism will be able to:
- Evaluating language in both languages
- Determine if there is an actual delay or disorder
- Propose strategies adapted to the child’s family and educational environment.
Advantages of bilingualism in childhood
Far from being an obstacle, bilingualism can bring multiple benefits to children’s development. Several studies have shown that bilingual children develop greater cognitive flexibility, improve their ability to concentrate and show advantages in problem solving. In addition, they are more prepared to learn other languages in the future and develop greater cultural sensitivity. These skills not only benefit their language development, but also their long-term academic and social performance.
Conclusion
Being bilingual is not detrimental to language development. On the contrary, it can offer cognitive, social and cultural advantages. The important thing is to accompany the child with patience, rich exposure to the language, and to consult a professional if doubts arise.
Is your child bilingual and having difficulties in language development? I can help you
As a bilingual speech therapist with experience in language development in bilingual children, I can help you assess whether your child needs intervention. I work with families in Malaga and also offer online sessions. Bilingualism is not an obstacle, but an opportunity, contact me for specialized attention!
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