Why Bilingual Kids Mix Languages—and How to Support Them

If your bilingual child mixes two languages in the same sentence or switches from one language to another mid-conversation, you might wonder: Is this a problem? The answer is: not at all! What you’re noticing is something called code-switching, also known as code-mixing, and it’s a completely normal part of bilingual language development.

Mixing Languages Is Part of Learning

Children who are learning two or more languages often switch between them. For example, a child might say, “Can I have su?” (Spanish for “water”) or “Ben hungry now.” This doesn’t mean they’re confused or falling behind—it actually shows they are actively using all their language skills to express themselves.

According to researchers King and Mackey (2007), this kind of mixing is common, especially in younger children, and it typically goes away with time as their language skills grow. Kids are still figuring out which words belong to which language, and they’re doing their best to communicate.

Your Child Is Not Confused

It might sound like your child is blending two languages into one, but studies show that bilingual children can tell the difference between their languages—even if they can’t yet explain it. They’re building two separate language systems in their brains and learning to manage both.

So, if your child uses words from two languages in the same sentence, don’t worry. It’s a sign of growth, not a sign of confusion.

Why Do Children Code-Switch?

There are many reasons why children mix languages:

• They don’t know the word yet in one language, so they use the word they do know.
• It’s easier or quicker to say something in one language than the other.
• They hear others doing it—especially if both parents or caregivers are also bilingual.

This behavior is natural and even shows that children are thinking flexibly and learning to adapt.

Supporting Both Languages

Sometimes, one language may need a little more support—especially if it’s the minority language at home. For example, if your child hears English all day at school but only speaks Spanish at home, you might notice more English creeping into their Spanish.

To support both languages:

• Read books, sing songs, and play games in both languages.
• Speak the minority language consistently if you can.
• Give your child plenty of chances to use each language in meaningful ways.

Set Realistic Expectations

There’s no such thing as a “perfect” bilingual speaker. Every child will have strengths and weaknesses in both languages, and that’s okay. Bilingualism is not a race—it’s a lifelong journey. Celebrate small victories and remember that all language learning takes time and practice.

Language Learning with Dinolingo

If you’re looking for fun ways to encourage both languages at home, Dinolingo can help. With over 50 language options, Dinolingo uses engaging videos, songs, stories, and games to keep children interested. Whether you’re supporting a minority language or reinforcing school learning, Dinolingo’s tools are designed to build vocabulary, fluency, and confidence—at your child’s pace.

It’s available on web, iOS, and Android, includes offline content, a parent dashboard, and supports up to six users with one subscription.

Final Thought

So, the next time your child says something in two languages, smile! It means they’re actively learning, experimenting, and growing. Code-switching is not a mistake—it’s a milestone in becoming a bilingual speaker.