If your toddler chats to Grandma in Mandarin and sings in English at daycare – and mixes the two – you’re not alone. At Kids First Children’s Services, we proudly support multilingual families across the Northern Beaches.
At a glance
- Who we help: Toddlers, preschoolers and school‑starters growing up with two or more languages
- Common concerns: Clarity of speech, late talking, stuttering, vocabulary and grammar, following instructions
- Core message: Bilingualism does not cause speech or language delay
- Where: Brookvale clinic, preschool/school visits and telehealth across the Northern Beaches
Does bilingualism cause speech delays?
Children learning two (or more) languages follow the same developmental pathway as monolingual children. They may distribute vocabulary across languages. Think combined total: if your three‑year‑old uses 60 words in Arabic and 40 in English, that’s roughly 100 words – typical for their age.
Some children do have genuine speech or language difficulties, but bilingualism isn’t the cause. Those challenges would appear even with one language. The right step is a thorough, culturally responsive assessment – not dropping a language.
Typical bilingual milestones (ages 2 – 6)
Ages 2 – 3 (Toddlers)
- 50 – 100 words in total across both/all languages
- Two‑word combinations (e.g., “more juice” or equivalent)
- Follows simple instructions in either language
- Language mixing is normal
- Strangers understand ~50%
Ages 3 – 4 (Preschoolers)
- 3 – 4 word sentences in at least one language
- Begins to ask simple questions in both languages
- Short stories; grammar may mix
- Strangers understand ~75%
Ages 5 – 6 (School readiness)
- Clear sentences across languages
- Tells detailed stories about past events
- Ready for early literacy in the strongest language
- Intelligibility 90 – 100% even for unfamiliar listeners
Code‑switching is healthy. Mixing words (e.g., “I want más juice”) shows flexible language skill, not confusion.
Red flags – When to seek a professional opinion
Toddlers (2 – 3)
- Fewer than 50 total words across languages
- Not combining two words by 2½
- Loss of previously used words/skills
- High frustration when communicating
- Use behaviour instead of words to convey their needs or feelings
Preschoolers (3 – 5)
- Very limited vocabulary in all languages
- Not using 3‑word sentences by 3½
- Family struggles to understand most speech
- Difficulty following two‑step instructions in any language
- Uses negative behaviours instead of words in moments of high emotion
Any age
- Stuttering lasting >6 months
- Hoarse, nasal or strained voice quality
- Regression in language skills
- Physical struggle or tension when speaking
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, an assessment is a safe next step.
Home strategies to support both languages
- Be consistent: Use the language you speak best when you interact. Consistency builds strong foundations.
- Create rich input: Read books, tell family stories, sing songs and rhymes in both languages every day.
- Don’t restrict a language: Stopping your home language won’t “fix” a delay and can harm family connection.
- Welcome code‑switching: Avoid correcting mixing mid‑sentence; separation comes with time and practice.
- Boost the minority language: If English dominates at care/school, add extra time for the home language.
How speech therapy supports bilingual children
- Comprehensive assessment: We consider all languages your child hears and uses, with interpreters as needed. We gather detailed exposure histories from home, care and community.
- Culturally responsive therapy: Goals respect your family’s values and languages. Activities are engaging, play‑based and functional for real life.
- Parent coaching: You’re a key partner. We show you how to build skills in daily routines (mealtimes, play, bath, books).
- Session rhythm: Most preschool sessions are 45 minutes long, weekly or fortnightly depending on goals and funding. Your clinician will recommend the right cadence.
- Team around the child: With consent, we liaise with educators so strategies are reinforced at preschool/school.
Costs and funding (Northern Beaches)
- Private health: Many health funds rebate speech pathology; check your cover and annual limits.
- NDIS: Early Childhood supports may be available for eligible children under seven with significant needs.
- Session guide: Assessments are typically comprehensive and therapy sessions usually run for 45 minutes. Your clinician will outline fees and options before you begin.
Therapy length varies: mild articulation needs may resolve in 8 – 12 sessions; broader language goals can take 6 – 12 months. We review progress with you regularly.
Why choose Kids First?
- Experienced with multilingual families: We support diverse linguistic backgrounds every day.
- Early childhood specialists: Assessment tools and therapy approaches matched to toddlers and preschoolers.
- Collaborative: Strong relationships with local early learning centres and schools.
- Evidence‑based and kind: Research‑aligned practice delivered with warmth and cultural respect.
FAQs
Should we switch to one language to help our toddler?
No. Removing a language doesn’t treat underlying difficulties and can reduce connection with family and culture. Support the home language alongside therapy.
Should we correct code‑switching?
No. Mixing languages is typical and shows flexible skills. Children naturally reduce mixing as they mature.
Is stuttering different in bilingual children?
Rates are similar to monolingual peers. If stuttering lasts longer than six months, book an assessment.
By what age should my child be clearly understood?
Around 4 years: strangers understand ~75%. Around 5 years: 90%+ intelligible.
How long does therapy take?
It depends on goals and presentation. Mild concerns may resolve in 8–15 sessions; complex needs can take 6–12 months with consistent practice.
Next steps
We’re here to help your child thrive in their multilingual world. Book a call with our Customer Service Team or phone (02) 9938 5419. We’ll listen, explain options and help you choose a path that feels right for your family.
