What Parents Should Know About Bilingualism

Around the world, more children are growing up speaking two or more languages. Whether it’s because of family background, moving to a new country, or just a desire to stay connected with heritage, bilingualism is becoming a way of life for many families. But it can also bring up lots of questions. How do I know if my child is getting enough language exposure? What method should I use? Will it confuse them?

Linguist François Grosjean and multilingual parenting expert Corey Heller share helpful answers to the most common questions parents ask.

How much exposure does a child need?

There’s no fixed amount of language input that guarantees success, but daily interaction is key. Children need to hear and use the language regularly. Talking with real people is better than just listening to songs or watching videos. Creating monolingual moments—where only one language is used—helps encourage real use and prevents constant switching.

What’s the best method to raise bilingual kids?

There are different approaches, and each family must find what works best for them. A popular and effective method is using the minority language at home. This helps the home language grow stronger, while the community language usually develops naturally at school or outside the home. Whichever method you choose, consistency and real communication matter most.

Can we change our method later?

Yes. Life circumstances change, and it’s okay to adjust. The important thing is to maintain a real need for both languages. If your children are old enough, talk to them about the change to help them feel included and supported.

What are the benefits of bilingualism?

Recent studies show that bilingual children often do better at tasks involving focus and switching between activities. They may have a smaller vocabulary in each language compared to monolingual children, but they make up for it in other ways. Bilingualism also brings cultural awareness, social flexibility, and long-term cognitive benefits.

Is it okay to speak a non-native language with my child?

If you speak it well enough to hold conversations, yes. It’s more about meaningful interaction than perfect grammar or accent. Just make sure the language feels real and useful in everyday life.

Are there universal rules for raising bilingual children?

Every family is different, but some key ideas can help everyone. Children need meaningful reasons to use the language, regular input, support from school and community, and a positive attitude toward both languages and cultures. Understanding what it means to be bilingual and multicultural is just as important as learning vocabulary.

What if one parent only speaks the language a little?

Even a small amount of exposure can help. A language you hear just once a week may still become important in the future. Every little bit counts.

Can we add a third language?

Yes, but keep things simple and natural. Create real-life situations for each language, avoid confusion by setting clear patterns, and make sure every language has a purpose in your child’s life.

What happens when school starts in the community language?

Often the school language becomes dominant. Children might begin using it even at home. This is common, especially between ages 6 and 13. Don’t panic. Stay consistent with your home language and keep encouraging its use through books, music, and conversation.

What if my child has a speech delay?

Experts agree that bilingualism does not cause speech delays or disorders. Children with speech difficulties can still learn more than one language. Stopping the home language won’t fix the issue and might even create emotional or social challenges.

How can we support both cultures?

Many bilingual children are also bicultural. Some may reject one identity for a while, or feel caught between cultures. Most eventually find a balance if they are supported and accepted. Children who grow up feeling proud of their dual backgrounds often become thoughtful and open-minded members of society.

How Dinolingo Can Help

Dinolingo offers language learning tools for children ages 2 to 14 in over 50 languages. With songs, games, videos, and printable resources, children can enjoy learning while parents track progress through a dedicated dashboard. The platform supports both home and community language learning with flexible lessons and fun rewards. With one subscription, up to six users can access lessons across web, iOS, and Android, including offline materials.

You can learn more about the program here: Dinolingo

Conclusion

Raising a bilingual child is not always easy, but it’s one of the most rewarding gifts you can give. With patience, consistency, and meaningful communication, families can support language growth in fun and natural ways. Every situation is unique, but with the right support and tools, bilingualism can thrive in any home.