What educators need to know about bilingual children
Bilingual children are not confused. They are resourceful. Here is what the research tells us, and how educators can help every child’s languages thrive.
“Will two languages confuse them?” It is a question families often ask. The answer is reassuring.
Milestones are reached at similar ages
Bilingual children generally reach early milestones around the same time as children who speak one language. This includes babbling, first words, and combining words. They may know fewer words in each language. But their total vocabulary across both is often equal or larger. Every child is different. These timelines are a guide, not a rule.
Mixing languages is a good sign
Bilingual children often use words from both languages in one sentence. This is called code-switching. It shows children are using all their language knowledge to communicate. It is a sign of understanding, not confusion.
The benefits go beyond words
Research suggests bilingual children may develop stronger problem-solving, attention, and flexible thinking skills. Learning two languages can also make it easier to learn more languages later.
Small changes make a big difference
Children thrive when all their languages are valued. Educators can help by:
- using key words from children’s home languages
- sharing bilingual books, songs, and labels
- inviting families to share stories and greetings
- encouraging families to keep speaking their home language at home
Every service sits on Country
Not every centre has children from multilingual families. That is okay. Every centre in Australia sits on Country with its own living language. Services can learn a local greeting or song, use the local word for Country in their Acknowledgement, and build lasting relationships with Elders and community language holders. When children see their language and culture reflected around them, the message is simple: you belong here.
Get the free fact sheet
Our fact sheet includes milestones, environment ideas, and practical steps for every service. Join EduTribe for free to download it, along with many other resources for early childhood educators.
