Second language learning

Learning a second language can happen at any age. Earlier is better but it is very important that the child learn from people who speak that language well.  When children have a strong first language base, they learn a second language more easily. They also do better at school with reading and writing.  Families should continue to speak their first and strongest language at home.

What can I expect when a child is learning a second language?

• A silent time of up to 6 months in the second language: A child needs time to understand a new language before using it. The child’s first language should continue to grow.
• Mixing the two languages by using words from both languages to help replace words they don’t know.
• Grammatical errors: Children will make mistakes until they figure out the rules.

How can I help a child learn more than one language?

• Provide REPEATED AND CONSISTENT exposure to each language.
• Be a good language model. Children will imitate the way you speak.
• Expose the child to each language at least 30% of each day.
• Use visual supports (pictures, objects, etc).
• Use gestures and actions.
• Use simple, everyday words.
• Make important words stand out.
• Use simple, short sentences.
• Speak slowly.
• Talk about the here-and-now.

There is no proof that children with a speech or a language delay will be more delayed if they hear two languages. However, they will have the same speech and language difficulties in both languages.

For more information on First Language and Bilingualism, find a printable version here.