Supporting Bilingual children speech development:

Recommendations from bilingual Speech Pathologists

As a speech pathologist with many years of experience working in community health with migrant families, I’ve seen firsthand how enriching multilingual development can be for children. For bilingual or multilingual families, fostering language development in more than one language can sometimes feel challenging, but with the right support, children can thrive in all their languages. Here are some key recommendations to support your child’s multilingual journey:

1. Create a Rich Language Environment in Both Languages

Expose your child to both (or all) languages regularly in natural contexts. This could mean speaking each language in specific settings, such as one parent speaking one language at home and the other speaking another, or using each language in different environments (e.g., one at home, one at school). The more opportunities your child has to hear and use both languages, the more confident and capable they will become in both.

2. Focus on Communication, Not Perfection

When working with multilingual children, it’s important to focus on communication rather than perfection. Children will mix languages at times (known as code-switching), and this is completely normal. It’s a sign that they are processing and navigating multiple languages. Encourage their attempts to communicate, even if they’re blending words from different languages. Over time, they will learn to use the appropriate language in different contexts.

3. Foster a Love for Language and Culture

Integrating culture into language learning can make the process more engaging and meaningful. Share stories, songs, and traditions from both cultures that are tied to the languages your child is learning. This can help them see language as a tool for connection, not just as a skill to acquire. Reading books, watching shows, or attending community events in both languages also reinforces their understanding and love for both languages.

4. Be Consistent with Language Exposure

Consistency is key. Try to make language exposure a part of your daily routine. If your child is learning two languages, it’s helpful to establish consistency in how and when each language is used. For example, one language might be used at home and another at school, or specific days or activities could focus on one language over the other.

5. Be Patient and Supportive

Language development takes time, especially when a child is learning more than one language. It’s important to be patient and not to compare their language development with peers who speak just one language. If there’s any concern about speech or language delays, consulting a speech pathologist with experience in bilingual and multilingual development can provide helpful insights and strategies.

6. Seek Professional Guidance When Needed

If you notice that your child is experiencing difficulties in one or more of their languages, don’t hesitate to consult with a speech pathologist who specializes in multilingual development. Early intervention can provide strategies to support your child’s speech, language, and communication skills in both (or all) languages, helping them grow and develop in a way that honors their multilingual abilities.

 

Having worked with many migrant families in community health, I understand the unique challenges and strengths that come with multilingual development. At Approach Speech Pathology, we are dedicated to providing culturally sensitive and personalized care to support your child’s speech and language development in all their languages. If you have any concerns or would like more guidance, please reach out to us for a consultation. Together, we can support your child’s multilingual development and create a positive, enriching experience.