Bilingual Language Development: What’s Typical and When to Seek Support
Bilingual Language Development
Raising a child in more than one language is an incredible gift. It connects them to family, culture, and community, and opens up a world of opportunities. But for many parents and educators, there’s a big question:
“How do you know if a child’s language patterns are just part of normal bilingual development — or if there’s a real language disorder that needs support?”
It’s a fair question, and the answer isn’t always obvious. In fact, bilingualism can sometimes mask a language disorder — or be mistaken for one — if we don’t know what to look for.
In this article, we’ll break down:
The difference between a language difference and a language disorder
Common features you might see in bilingual children
Red flags that may indicate a need for further assessment
Language Difference: A Normal Part of Bilingual Development
A language difference happens when a child’s speech and language reflect the influence of more than one language. This is not a disorder — it’s simply how bilingual brains work.
You might notice:
Accent or pronunciation differences between languages
Different word order (e.g., “I have 5 years” instead of “I am 5 years old”)
Mixing languages in the same sentence (code-switching)
Temporary errors caused by “language transfer” (carrying rules from one language into the other)
Uneven skills between languages, depending on how much they hear and use each one
These differences are part of normal development, and most bilingual children move fluidly between their languages over time.
Language Disorder: When There’s More Than Just a Difference
A language disorder affects a child’s ability to learn and use language effectively — and it will show up in all the languages they speak, not just one.
You might notice:
Persistent trouble understanding or using vocabulary
Difficulty following instructions or forming sentences
Grammar errors that occur in both languages
Struggles that do not improve even with more exposure or practice
A key sign is that the difficulties are present across both languages and in different settings (home, school, community).
Red Flags to Watch For in a Bilingual Child
If you notice any of the following, especially in both languages, it’s worth seeking a professional opinion:
A family history of language or learning difficulties
Limited vocabulary in both languages
Trouble combining words or forming basic sentences
Difficulty telling stories or sequencing events
Struggles to follow routines or instructions, regardless of language used
Slow progress despite lots of exposure and support
Social communication (pragmatic) challenges that are unusual for their culture
Why This Matters
Identifying a language disorder early allows children to access support that can make a huge difference in their learning, confidence, and connection with others. At the same time, it’s equally important not to label typical bilingual patterns as a disorder. Misdiagnosis can lead to unnecessary intervention — and sometimes pressure to drop a home language, which can have long-term cultural and emotional impacts.
Final Thoughts
Bilingualism itself does not cause language disorders. Most bilingual children’s development includes variations, temporary mixing of languages, and differences between their skills in each language — all of which are perfectly normal.
If you’re concerned about a child’s language skills, remember:
*This information is a guide, not a diagnosis. It does not replace the expertise of a qualified speech-language pathologist or other professional. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to seek an assessment from someone experienced in working with bilingual children.
Have questions about bilingual development? Our team at Little Birds Allied Health supports families to celebrate their languages while ensuring children get the help they need. Contact us to find out more.
