Will Learning a New Language Cause a Speech Delay for My Child?

Every child develops at their own pace. While some children seem to pick up new words effortlessly, others take a little more time. If your child is learning more than one language, you might wonder: Does bilingualism cause speech delays? The answer is—not in the way you might think.

Let’s look at what speech “delays” might look like in bilingual kids, and why they usually aren’t a cause for concern.

What Does a Language Delay Look Like in Bilingual Children?

When children are exposed to two languages at the same time—either from birth or early in life—they may seem to speak later than their monolingual peers. But this is often a case of language distribution, not delay. For example:

• A monolingual child may know 50 English words at age two.
• A bilingual child may know 25 words in English and 25 in French at the same age.

The total vocabulary is still 50 words—just split between two languages. Over time, bilingual children tend to catch up or even surpass their monolingual peers in total language development.

The “Silent Period” is Normal

Many children go through what researchers call a “silent period” when learning two languages. During this time, they may speak less than usual. This doesn’t mean something is wrong—it’s actually a sign that they’re processing and absorbing both languages. They’re observing patterns, testing sounds in their minds, and quietly building up their understanding.

True Developmental Delays Are Unrelated to Bilingualism

If a child has a genuine speech or language delay, it’s important to understand that bilingualism is not the cause. Both monolingual and bilingual children can experience developmental speech delays. If you’re ever concerned, a certified speech-language pathologist can help assess your child and determine whether any support is needed.

The Long-Term Benefits of Bilingualism

While learning two languages may look slower in the beginning, the long-term benefits are well worth it. Bilingual children often develop:

• Stronger problem-solving and flexible thinking skills
• Better focus and attention
• Enhanced social and communication skills
• Greater creativity
• Higher academic achievement
• Improved mental well-being later in life

To explore these benefits in more detail, you can read our article on the advantages of bilingualism.

How Can You Support Your Bilingual Child?

Consistency, encouragement, and fun learning methods make a big difference. At Dinolingo, we help children ages 2–14 learn languages through stories, songs, videos, and games. Our platform allows kids to go at their own pace while parents track their progress through a helpful dashboard. With over 50 language options, you can support your child’s journey whether you’re bilingual or just beginning the adventure together.