Does Bilingualism affect my child's development ?

Before deciding whether to teach your child a second or third language, there are things to consider. And, to help you out, here are 5 common questions answered in bilingualism and language development, hope you will find it useful.

Does bilingualism hinder my child's speech and language development?

No. It is shown for normally developing children, bilingualism is possible without deficits in any of the languages. Though a short period of developmental lag is indicated in the initial stage of acquiring a second language compared to monolinguals (Nicoladis, E., 2016).

Is bilingualism the cause of language disorder?

No! Studies have shown that children with severe developmental disorders are still able to acquire 2 languages without significant delays compared to their same-aged peers. The key is simultaneous exposure to both languages. Children who are used to one language on one occasion e.g school and another more often e.g home may result in a delay of development in one language than another. Moreover, after numerous studies, it is confident to say that exposure to a new language does not worsen a language disorder nor does a language disorder makes bilingualism an impossible task (Paradis & Kirova, 2014).

What language should parents speak to a bilingual child?

Even though your child has a developmental disorder, it is encouraged that parents speak in the language they are most comfortable with. Because as parents, we have a big role in providing quality language input to our children in the way of playing games, singing, and more. It is of utmost importance that parents are flexible and comfortable in facilitating various forms of interactions in a language. this is crucial in child development.

How to find a speech pathologist if my child is bilingual?

The best way, find a speech pathologist that is comfortable with both languages your child knows. You can ask your current speech pathologist for help or search it up online. A bilingual SLP is knowledgeable about your languages such as the linguistic features, compared to a monolingual SLP. It is recommended that intervention in both languages ought to be given as generalization (the transfer of effect of intervention from one language to another) can be limited.

Do speech and language intervention in one language affect the development of another language ?

Unfortunately, this is yet to be confirmed. Numerous studies have shown effects on specific areas of language but not another. For instance, Gildersleeve-Neumann and Goldstein (2015) have found successful generalization of improvement among bilinguals (Spanish and English) when intervention is given.

However, in Cantonese, English speaking children, intervention in pronunciation of 's' sound has shown positive effects in both languages but not some like 'r' sounds. This proves that working on a specific area in one language may or may not benefit the same area in another language.

Do language delays occur in only one language?

No (Cummins, 1981; Juarez, 1983; Kay-Raining Bird, 2006; Kohnert, 2013). Languages tend to work together. Languages tend to work together. If a language disorder is identified in one, another is also affected. Though, exposure is another story. Despite normal language development, should your child not use the language often, he/she may not be up to par in that language. That being said, if a child performs in one language better than another, this is not because of a language disorder existing in that one language. Rather, it is most likely due to the lack of exposure so that language cannot be practiced.

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If you are interested in learning more the facts about bilingualism and speech and language disorder, check out this website. It explores the question of learning a new language with an existing language disorder and studies behind it.

After all, bilingualism has great benefits, if you want your child to learn another language, why not? Go ahead! Just keep in mind the effects and figure out what way will they learn it. Exposing them to two languages at home? Learning it at school? Who will practice with them at home?

Let me know your thoughts or if you have found this useful. I would love to know all your ideas.

Have a great day and don't forget to smile!

Joyce Lau