5 Myths About Raising Bilingual Kids

Is there more than one language spoken in your household? Your children may have a great advantage. Below is what you don’t need to worry about.

I’m Moran, a Multilingual Speech Language Therapist from Columbia University. I work in Miami with over 150+ bilingual children and families in 4 languages — English, Spanish, Hebrew, and French. I believe that language and literacy skills lay the groundwork for children’s academic and life success. 

Today, I want to debunk prevalent myths that often hinder the path to bilingualism and biculturalism in children. These myths have already been debunked by science but continue to be widespread by well meaning, but uninformed, doctors, teachers, psychologists, and parents around the world. 

5 Myths About Bilingualism Debunked!

1. Babies Get “Confused” When Exposed to Multiple Languages

Babies are linguistic sponges. Research shows that rather than being “confused” by multiple languages, their brain becomes adept at distinguishing between sounds and structures from an early age. Being exposed to 2 or more languages does NOT cause confusion in babies.

2. Language Delays are Due to Bilingualism 

Research shows that bilingual kids meet the same developmental milestones, at the same times, as monolingual peers. Bilingual kids do not start talking later because of exposure to multiple languages. 

If your child is not talking when s/he is supposed to (according to developmental norms), and s/he is bilingual, please consult a bilingual speech and language therapist in your area.

3. Perfection is a Must

Ditch the perfection! The idea that multilingual children should speak every language they’re exposed to without any flaws is harmful. It’s okay not to speak or understand every language perfectly. It’s ok to have an accent or make grammatical errors. Remember: language learning can ebb and flow, experiencing ups and downs. Just as language skills can be lost, they can also be regained and further developed with the right strategies and plan.

4. There’s an “Age Limit” to Learning A New Language

Children of all ages, as well as adults, can and do learn new languages. While younger kids might have an easier time picking up languages, age isn’t a definitive barrier to learning. With dedication and the right plan, anyone can acquire a new language.

5. Only Perfectly Fluent Parents Can Teach Their Kids a New Language

Even if you’re not perfectly fluent, have grammatical errors, or an accent, your consistent exposure can provide a strong language foundation for your child to learn a second language. 

Bilingualism is a cheat code for life

Bilingualism is more than just speaking two or more languages. More than words, being multilingual and bicultural unlocks cognitive, academic, social, emotional, and cultural benefits. These benefits extend beyond mere communication. Bilingual individuals often exhibit enhanced problem-solving abilities, multitasking skills, and a better understanding of global perspectives. They have heightened academic potential and increased job opportunities in our globalized market. They are more culturally aware and can navigate diverse environments with ease. 

Mil gracias, toda raba, merci beaucoup, and see you soon!