Learning Two Languages
[
en Español]
Anyone can learn a new language. Some people
find it easier than others, but all of us can do it. People who
can use two languages are
bilingual
.
Children can learn to be bilingual. They can
learn two languages at home, at school, or in the community.
Some children learn both languages very well. But sometimes
they know one language better than the other. The language a
child knows better is called the
dominant language
. Over time the dominant language may change, especially if a
child doesn't use it regularly.
Speaking two languages is like any other skill.
To do it well, children need lots of practice, which parents
can help provide. Without practice, it may be difficult for
children to understand or talk to people in both
languages.
How do I teach my child to be bilingual?
There are a number of ways to teach children to
speak more than one language. You can do the following:
-
Use two languages from the start. Many
children grow up learning two languages at the same
time.
-
Use only one language at home. Your child can
learn the second language when he or she starts
school.
-
Give your child many opportunities to hear
and practice using both languages in everyday
situations.
Will learning two languages cause speech or
language problems?
No. Children all over the world learn more than
one language without developing speech or language problems.
Bilingual children develop language skills just as other
children do.
What should I expect when my child learns more
than one language?
Every bilingual child is unique. Developing
skills in two languages depends on the quality and amount of
experience the child has using both languages. The following
are some basic guidelines:
-
Like other children, most bilingual children
speak their first words by the time they are 1 year old
(e.g., "mama" or "dada"). By age 2, most
bilingual children can use two-word phrases (e.g., "my
ball" or "no juice"). These are the same
language developmental milestones seen in children who learn
only one language.
-
From time to time, children may mix grammar
rules, or they might use words from both languages in the
same sentence. This is a normal part of bilingual language
development.
-
When a second language is introduced, some
children may not talk much for a while. This "silent
period" can sometimes last several months. Again, this
is normal and will go away.
What resources can I use to help my child be
bilingual?
-
Books.
You can read to your child in both languages.
You can find the books you need at bookstores, at libraries,
and on the Internet.
-
Audiotapes and CDs.
Tapes and CDs in other languages can help
too. Singing is a great way to introduce a second language to
your child, and it can be lots of fun!
-
Videotapes and DVDs.
Children's programs are available in many
languages. These programs often teach children about numbers,
letters, colors, and basic vocabulary.
-
Language programs.
Children can also learn to be bilingual at
language camps
or in
bilingual education programs
. These give children the chance to use two languages with
other children. Some school districts offer programs to help
children learn another language from an early age.
If my child is having trouble communicating,
should we use only one language?
In this case, it's best to talk to your
child in the language you're most comfortable with. This is
true even if he or she uses a different language at school. But
try not to make a sudden change in your child's routine.
This can be stressful.
Children who are having problems in both
languages may need professional help.
What are some additional resources?
This list is not exhaustive, and inclusion
does not imply endorsement of the organization or the content
of the Web site by ASHA.
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