How do kids know what language to speak?

Children acquire language through interaction – not only with their parents and other adults, but also with other children. All normal children who grow up in normal households, surrounded by conversation, will acquire the language that is being used around them.

Do multilingual kids speak later?

Bilingual children may say their first words slightly later than monolingual children, but still within the normal age range (between 8-15 months) (11). Bilingualism itself does not cause language delay (10).

How does a bilingual child acquire language?

A child can become bilingual by simultaneous acquisition or successive acquisition of the second language. If the child is exposed to the second language at an older age, successive acquisition usually occurs” (National Center for Research on Cultural Diversity and Second Language Learning, 1995).

Can a child learn two languages at once?

The good news is young children all around the world can and do acquire two languages simultaneously. In fact, in many parts of the world, being bilingual is the norm rather than an exception. It is now understood that the constant need to shift attention between languages leads to several cognitive advantages.

Can a child learn 2 languages at once?

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 starts school. Give your child many chances to hear and practice both languages during the day.

How does a child learn two languages from birth at the same time?

Our findings show that babies’ brains become tuned to whatever language or languages they hear from their caregivers. A monolingual brain becomes tuned to the sounds of one language, and a bilingual brain becomes tuned to the sounds of two languages.

How do I teach my child multiple languages?

Teaching Your Child To Be Bilingual

1. Use two languages from the start. Many children grow up learning two languages at the same time.
2. Use only one language at home. Your child can learn the second language when he starts school.
3. Give your child many chances to hear and practice both languages during the day.

How do you raise a multilingual child?

Raising multilingual or bilingual children: tips

1. Read and tell stories in your heritage language, and encourage your child to join in.
2. Play games in your heritage language, especially games that focus on language, like ‘I spy’, bingo, ‘Who am I?
3. Sing songs, dance and play music in your heritage language.