There are many benefits for children who know more than one language. Besides maintaining strong ties to their culture, family, and community, it can improve a child’s overall literacy, communication, and math skills.

Unfortunately, there are some myths about multilingual households that can cause families to limit their child’s exposure to other languages.

Myth: Using more than one language with toddlers and infants can cause developmental delays in their communication.

No. Communication starts before a child’s first word. Milestones in early communication are the same in every language. Such as babbling, smiling, and giggling.

No matter how many languages a child is exposed to, developmental milestones are the same.

“A child who speaks English may have 50 words in English by age 2 years. A child who speaks English and Spanish may have 25 words in English and 25 words in Spanish. They both have the same total number of words.” Healthy Children

Myth: Using more than one language in the home, can cause a child to have a speech or language disorder. 

No. Learning more than one language does not cause a speech or language problems. Research shows children who are exposed to more than one language develop strong communication skills. 

“If a child has a speech or language problem, it will show up in all languages that a child uses. If a multilingual child is diagnosed with a speech or language disorder, a speech-language pathologist can work with the child in their heritage language.” Healthy Children

Myth: It’s confusing for children to learn more than one language. 

No. While some children who come from multilingual homes may from time to time mix grammar rules. Or they may use words from different languages in the same sentence.

“This is normal. It does not mean that your child is confused. Usually by age 3, multilingual children can separate their languages. In other words, they can use the language most appropriate for the person they’re communicating with, whether it’s a familiar person or someone they don’t know.” Healthy Children

Any child can have a Speech and language disorders. Which can affect their confidence, communication, and overall mental health. Which is why it is so important to seek help. The earlier it’s treated, the easier it is for everyone

At First Words Speech Therapy, our therapists are trained with extensive clinical experience which they continuously improve upon by remaining current with clinically proven, evidence-based evaluation and therapy practices. Our therapists are devoted to providing your child with the highest quality of care and we are here to help.

“Children around the world routinely speak multiple languages. The more language that your child is exposed to in their early years, the better their communication skills will be. Families should use the language(s) they’re most comfortable with around their child. Being exposed to more than one language will not cause a speech or language disorder. In fact, learning multiple languages has many benefits—including improved math and literacy skills, enhanced problem-solving abilities, and better self-control.” American Speech-Language-Hearing Association