Expanding Your World with Two Languages: Language Development Tips for Bilingual Children
Min Jung Kwon
Hello, I'm BCBA Park Hye-ji . These days, children's language development has become one of the main concerns for parents, so I have a lot of concerns .
In particular, many parents are curious about how their children acquire two languages in a bilingual environment where two languages are used at home. Today, I would like to inform you about the language development of children growing up in a bilingual environment .
Bilingual environment vs. monolingual environment?
Many parents wonder whether children growing up in a bilingual environment will develop language more slowly or be more confused than children growing up in a monolingual environment .
However , research shows that children in bilingual environments acquire the language primarily used by their parents (their native language), similar to children in monolingual environments . Therefore , children who grow up in bilingual environments not only have natural exposure to two cultures, but also develop diverse thinking skills and strengthen problem-solving abilities .
There are also studies that show that the ability to switch between two languages , such as code switching , has a positive effect on brain development .
What is the role of parents?
When children learn language , it is said that the role of parents is not only to convey the language, but also to provide positive language stimulation .
Research shows that the proportion of language parents use when communicating with their children has a direct impact on their child's language skills, and when parents respond positively to their child's speech , children become more confident and willing to speak more actively .
This type of interaction has been shown to be effective in natural settings, such as play or everyday conversation . Therefore, in a bilingual environment , the more frequently and extensively parents use their child's primary language, the more quickly the child develops proficiency in that language, allowing them to naturally embrace other cultures and ideas through that language.
What language will we use during study time?
Interestingly , while bilingual children tended to use their native language more during playtime , their parents tended to use a more social language, such as English, during academic activities like study time or reading. It appears to be a strategy for parents to increase their children's use of English to prepare them for the language they will use in school in the future .
However, spending sufficient time learning in your native language can give your child even greater linguistic benefits .
Research shows that using their native language while learning helps children build confidence in both languages, not just English . This is because if they understand a concept well in their native language , they can easily understand that concept in another language .
Therefore, it is recommended to use both English and your native language in a balanced way during study time . For example, when reading a book , read it once in English and then again in your native language, as if you were a simultaneous interpreter, so that you can use both languages naturally .
What Parents Should Remember from This Study
- Speaking two languages does not slow down language development . Children have a natural ability to learn two languages .
- Use your native language often in everyday situations . Using your native language during playtime , mealtime , and reading time will greatly help your child's native language development .
- Encourage language development through positive responses . Your response when your child tries to speak is very important .
- Maintain a balance between learning English and using your native language . Create an environment that fosters confidence in both languages .
Today's research explored the seemingly simple yet challenging task of mastering bilingualism . If you have any questions about your child's language development , please contact Everbloom Path anytime!