Bilingualism is the ability to understand and/or use two or more languages.
The term therefore includes ‘multilingualism’, which is the knowledge and/or use of several languages
Being bilingual is an advantage to any child at any age.
- Your home language is the most important.
- Learning two languages won’t confuse your child but it may take them a little longer to pick up.
- Your child will be ready to learn English when they are good at using their home language.
- Switching from one language to another shows your child knows both languages well.
- Avoid ‘teaching’ English and making your child speak English – this can put them off talking.
- Your child will learn English from being around other English speakers, e.g. in nursery or at local groups.
- Don’t worry if your child is quiet when starting nursery/playgroup – this is common when learning a new language.
Only using a few words in their home language = contact a Speech and Language Therapist *
* or contact your GP, Health Visitor or early years setting
For more information visit:
https://speechandlanguage.org.uk/talking-point/for-professionals/english-as-an-additional-language/
Using home language well but only saying a few English words = allow more time for them to pick up English
I CAN Talk Together
Please click the following website to download advice to help your child learn to talk.
Speech and Language UK – Resources for speakers of other languagesScroll down the webpage to “Resources for speakers of other languages” and download the guide in the language you choose.
Guides are available in 15 different languages (Hungarian, Nepali, Roma, Slovak, Spanish, Welsh Czech, French, Polish, Punjabi, Somali, Urdu, Arabic, Turkish, English)
Did you know?
You can translate this webpage, and all other pages on the NHS website by clicking Accessibility tools at the top of the page.
If you click the following button then you can select a language that is listed.
