But, do we know why?

Bilingualism and Multilingualism refer to the ability to understand and/or use 2 or more languages. Individuals do not have to be fluent in all languages to be considered bilingual or multilingual.

So why is multilingualism an advantage for children?

Exposure to multiple languages from a young age, results in a positive impact on the executive functioning parts of the brain.

What does this mean in practical terms?

Increased capacity for attention and listening

• A multilingual brain is constantly filtering and organising relevant information, so when it comes to distractions and unimportant interferences, a bilingual brain can more easily remain focused on tasks.

Improved working memory

• Multilingual children can hold larger amounts of information and use it efficiently. This will improve a child’s ability to learn and retain new vocabulary and concepts.

Cognitive Flexibility

• Multilingual children are able to more easily switch from one task to another and proficiently adapt their verbal and non-verbal responses depending on each situation.
• Bilingual children are also more creative and are much better at complex problem solving in comparison to their monolingual peers.

Cultural sensitivity

• Multilingual children will be able to form a solid connection with their culture through learning the language. This will also help them be more sensitive and aware of the cultures of others and be respectful towards them.

Language development

• As a result of the points listed above, children will more effectively and efficiently learn and appropriately utilise verbal and non-verbal communication; this will subsequently result in success within personal, social and academic areas of their lives.
  

Multilingualism and language delays

Multilingualism gets a bad rap when it comes to speech and language delays in young children.

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‍“my child’s speech is delayed because we speak 3 languages at home”

“we stopped speaking our home language because we were worried it would increase my child’s speech delay”

“my child is slow at learning because he is bilingual”‍

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This narrative is still common, perhaps because it ‘softens’ the blow to parents when considering language delays. But the danger of this narrative is that parents end up seeking support much later and we know that EARLY INTERVENTION is vital when it comes to helping children reach their full potential.

It is true that children exposed to multiple languages may present with a ‘silent period’ if they are not exposed to the additional language simultaneously with other languages

For example, if a family moves to a different country after the child is 2 years of age.

Some children may need a little more time to process and respond to instructions in additional languages (as we all do when learning new languages).

Children will mix their languages when talking (code-switching), this does not mean they are confused, this is completely typical and if you are a multilingual adult, you probably do it too!

The difference between a language delay and a language learning issue

First things first, it’s important to establish the difference between a language delay and a language learning (EAL) issue.

If a child is meeting developmental milestones in their native language but is ‘delayed’ in additional languages, this is likely to be a language learning issue rather than a language delay.

If a child presents with a delay in all languages they speak, then this would be considered to be language delay.

How to support a child who you think may have a language delay?

1. NEVER advise a family to stop speaking native languages
   Children learn language most effectively from fluent language models. If a parent is not fluent or comfortable in a language, this will impact the effectiveness of their language models. Children will learn additional languages more effectively when they have foundations in their home language.
2. Don’t mix languages
   Although this is completely normal, if your child is struggling to learn language, it will be helpful to try and stick to one language at a time.
3. Slow your pace and simplify your speech
   Slowing your rate of speech will ensure that you are speaking clearer and reducing pressure on your child.
4. Arrange play dates with good language models
   Make friends with native speakers to increase your child’s exposure to language in natural (and fun!) contexts.

When to consult a speech and language therapist?

If you’ve read this article and you feel that your child might have a delay or you are still unsure, do consult a speech and language therapist sooner rather than later. After talking to you and seeing your child they will be able to guide you and give you specific advice.‍

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me by email at nisha@thetherapyplaceuk.com

You can also check out Nisha's website at https://www.thetherapyplaceuk.com/ to find out more.