Does Learning Two Languages Cause Speech Delays?

By Marta Prieto

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June 03, 2025

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Contents

Introduction

What Is Bilingualism?

Does Learning Two Languages Cause Speech Delays?

Bilingualism and Cognitive Benefits

Bilingual Kids and Speech: What’s Normal?

Choosing the Right Spanish Learning Program

Tips to Support Speech Development in Bilingual Children

Final Thoughts

Introduction

Many parents wonder: Does learning two languages cause speech delays in children? It’s a common concern when raising bilingual kids or starting a Spanish program early. While this worry is understandable, research shows that bilingualism usually does not lead to speech delays. In fact, speaking two languages can bring many benefits to your child’s brain and future learning.

In this blog, we’ll discuss speech development in bilingual kids. We’ll tackle common fears and help you pick the best method for your child to learn Spanish. We’ll also explain how to help bilingual kids develop language skills with confidence.

What Is Bilingualism?

Bilingualism means a person can understand and speak two languages. Some kids are bilingual from birth, while others start learning a second language like Spanish at a young age. This process is called bilingual language development.

Many parents fear that being exposed to two languages too early might slow down speech. This is where the idea of a bilingual speech delay comes from. But is it true?

Does Learning Two Languages Cause Speech Delays?

The simple answer is no, bilingualism does not cause speech delays. Children may take slightly longer to start speaking compared to monolingual children, but this is not the same as a true language delay. Instead, bilingual children are learning two sets of words and grammar, so their brains are doing double the work.

Research shows that speech development in bilingual children follows a normal pattern. A child may mix words from both languages at first, but over time, they learn when to use which language. Speech development in bilingual children might look different from monolingual children, but it’s not worse.

In some cases, children with actual language delay can still become bilingual, but they may need extra support. If you are unsure whether your child has a language delay or bilingual speech issues, talk to a doctor or speech therapist.

Bilingualism and Cognitive Benefits

Despite early worries about speech development, bilingual kids often have strong brains. Studies show that bilingual children:

Have better memory
Are more creative
Can switch between tasks easily
Show stronger problem-solving skills

These advantages often lead to better performance in school. In the long run, bilingualism can help your child succeed not just in language but also in math, reading, and critical thinking.

Bilingual Kids and Speech: What’s Normal?

It’s important to understand what normal speech development in bilingual children looks like. Your child might:

Take longer to say first words
Mix languages (code-switching)
Have a smaller vocabulary in each language early on

This doesn’t mean they have a speech delay. Over time, their vocabulary grows in both languages. If they regularly hear and practice both, they usually catch up with monolingual peers.

If you're wondering does learning two languages cause speech delays, remember: temporary slowdowns aren’t harmful delays. It's part of growing up bilingual.

Choosing the Right Spanish Learning Program

To support your child’s bilingual language development, you need to know how to choose the right Spanish program for your child that fits their style and your schedule. There are three main options:

1. Spanish Tutors

Tutors provide one-on-one support and can adjust lessons to your child’s needs. This is great if your child needs help with speech development or is shy about speaking in a group. A tutor can also answer questions directly, which is helpful for kids with bilingualism speech concerns. However, tutors may cost more and require set schedules.

2. Language Learning Apps

Apps like Duolingo Kids and Babbel are fun, flexible, and interactive. They include games, challenges, and vocabulary drills. They’re perfect for busy families and tech-savvy kids. However, they can’t give feedback like a tutor would and may not address speech concerns directly.

3. Online Courses

Online courses blend structure with flexibility. Some offer access to native speakers, videos, and activities. This can help kids practice real communication. These courses support steady speech development and are a solid middle ground between tutors and apps.

Your choice depends on your budget, time, and how your child likes to learn.

Tips to Support Speech Development in Bilingual Children

If your child is learning Spanish as a second language, you can help them avoid a language delay by doing a few simple things:

Talk to them in both languages daily. This builds confidence and vocabulary.
Read books in both languages. Picture books, stories, and audiobooks are great tools.
Play language games. Use matching cards, role play, or songs to make Spanish fun.
Celebrate small wins. Every word learned is progress!
Stay consistent. Learning two languages takes time, but daily exposure matters.

These steps support bilingual speech development and help your child stay motivated and confident.

When to Seek Extra Help

Sometimes, children may have true speech delays that are not caused by bilingualism. If your child:

Isn’t speaking any words by 18 months
Stops talking or regresses
Has trouble understanding simple directions

it’s a good idea to talk to a pediatrician or a speech therapist. A specialist can tell if it’s a bilingual speech delay or something else. The earlier you get support, the better the outcome.

Final Thoughts

So, does learning two languages cause speech delays in children? No bilingualism may affect the timing of speech milestones, but it does not create true speech delays. In fact, bilingual kids grow strong language and thinking skills that benefit them for life.

It’s natural for parents to have bilingualism speech concerns, especially during early childhood. But with the right support and tools, your child can thrive. For more information, check out our Spanish for kids: the ultimate guide for parents. Choose a Spanish learning program that matches their needs and create a fun, language-rich home.

Encouraging bilingual language development does more than teach a second language. It prepares your child for a brighter future.

Marta Prieto

By Management Team

Marta Prieto, Director of Academics at Comligo, combines a strong academic background with entrepreneurial experience. She previously founded and led De La Mano Spanish, a successful Spanish school in Asia. Passionate about language education, Marta prioritizes motivation, communication, and interaction to ensure Comligo’s programs provide engaging and effective Spanish learning experiences.

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