What It Really Means to Be Bilingual
by Rosie Byrnes
Bilingualism is more than just knowing how to speak two languages.
Because language is so intertwined with culture and psychology, being bilingual can mean different things to different people. While some would say that bilingualism can describe anyone who speaks two languages, others’ definitions can be a bit more nuanced.
To some, bilingualism may only refer to people who grew up speaking two languages. Others might add the caveat that in order to be truly bilingual, someone needs to speak both languages equally well. Some would say that grammar and pronunciation are important factors in deciding whether or not a person is bilingual, while others argue that being able to switch effortlessly between two languages is the true benchmark of bilingualism.
There are endless criteria that could apply to whether or not someone is bilingual—and because all of them are subjective, it’s nearly impossible to settle on a single definition of “bilingualism.”
What’s more important, as some scholars say, is whether or not a person feels bilingual. Someone who grew up speaking two languages in another country, for example, may not feel bilingual anymore if they don’t have a connection to that culture anymore. On the other hand, someone who learned a second language later in life may rightly call themselves bilingual if they are comfortable switching between both languages in different contexts.
After all, language learning is a lifelong process, and our ability to communicate is inextricably linked to many other areas of our lives: our culture, our place in society, even our identities.
So while the basic definition of bilingualism—the ability to use two languages well—still broadly applies, whether or not someone is truly bilingual will depend on their specific circumstances and personal definition of the word.
There are different paths to becoming bilingual.
While there are lots of different ways to develop a new language, they all tend to fall under one of two categories: simultaneous bilingualism or sequential bilingualism.
While these terms might sound fancy, they’re actually pretty simple: simultaneous bilingualism means learning both languages at the same time (i.e. developing two “native” languages), while sequential bilingualism refers to the process of becoming fluent in one language at a time.
Neither process is necessarily better than the other, and learning two languages simultaneously doesn’t make a person “more bilingual” than someone who learns them sequentially. Why?
Because being bilingual isn’t about when you learn a new language; it’s about how thoroughly you’ve learned it.
Although no one can seem to agree on a specific definition of bilingualism, it’s true that knowing both languages to a certain degree of fluency is definitely a big part of what it means to be bilingual.
Perfect grammar and pronunciation aren’t necessarily dealbreakers when it comes to bilingualism—especially if bilingualism is something that is felt rather than achieved. But in order to feel truly bilingual, a person would have to feel comfortable enough to be immersed in their second language, and familiar enough to use it in different contexts.
Curious about whether your child is on the path to becoming bilingual? Here are some common questions parents ask about kids and bilingualism:
My child just started learning a new language in school. Are they bilingual?
Not yet—but they may well be on their way. Learning basic vocabulary (such as colors, numbers, and animals) and grammatical structures (like asking a question) are great stepping stones toward learning a new language—but most experts agree that basic-level language skills don’t constitute true bilingualism.
A person may even be able to hold a basic conversation in their second language, but they wouldn’t be considered truly “bilingual” until that language comes naturally to them in multiple different contexts.
Does my child have to be perfectly fluent in two languages to be considered “bilingual”?
Nope! In fact, most kids aren’t “perfectly” fluent in even one language—think of all the grammar mishaps and strange sentences that all young children display from time to time, even in their first language. Making mistakes is part of the language-learning process, so don’t worry if your kids’ fluency isn’t adult-level. It’s not supposed to be!
Most people who are bilingual also tend to have a dominant language: one in which they are more fluent, or one that they are more comfortable using most of the time. This can change over time depending on the learner’s environment, social circles, and developing skills—but having one language that’s dominant over the other doesn’t make a person any less bilingual.
How will I know when my child is bilingual?
Again, even the experts have a hard time agreeing on this one. There’s no one milestone to mark whether someone is bilingual or not, because being bilingual is so much more than just knowing another language. But as a general rule, it’s okay to assume that anyone who feels bilingual is bilingual!
In other words, you may notice your child naturally switching between both languages more often, or showing signs of becoming more and more comfortable using their second language. This is a good indication that their language skills are improving, and they may be getting closer to feeling truly bilingual.
Can a child living in a monolingual home become bilingual?
Yes! Many children who live in monolingual homes are able to become bilingual. For some kids, being immersed in another language outside of their homes (such as living or going to school within a culture that primarily speaks a different language than their parents) is a natural way to cultivate bilingualism. Other kids learn a second language through their social circles, or by studying and becoming immersed in other ways outside of the home.
If you are a monolingual parent and you’re hoping to help your child become bilingual, there are lots of ways to support them. Aside from giving them time to learn a second language outside of your home, try to immerse them in their new language as much as possible. Provide plenty of books and entertainment in their new language, and encourage them to use their new vocabulary in real life.
I am a bilingual parent. Which language should I speak to my child?
Whichever you feel most comfortable with! Some parents feel obligated to speak to their child in the “new” language more often, because they feel it will accelerate their child’s learning. Others use the one-person-one-language approach (i.e. Mom speaks only English and Dad speaks only French). But these may not work for every family, and it’s always important to keep positive relationships and open communication as a number-one priority.
If you feel more comfortable speaking one language over another, that’s totally okay. If you want to speak both languages with your child—or even use code-switching to mix the two together—that’s fine too! Communicating in a way that is comfortable and natural within your family is the only “best” way to set them up for learning success.
I’m worried that my child will get confused learning two languages at once. What should I do?
A lot of parents feel this way about encouraging their kids to learn multiple languages. And let’s be honest: learning a new language can be a little complicated or confusing at times, for both kids and adults. But there’s no evidence to suggest that learning two languages can confuse a child beyond repair. (In fact, being bilingual may actually help develop other amazing functions in the brain.)
You might notice that bilingual children occasionally mix their two languages together as they’re learning. This is perfectly normal, and nothing to worry about. In fact, this is actually a good thing, as it means that they’re learning to switch seamlessly between languages in order to best communicate what they’re trying to say.
And, just like with any new skill, it’s okay to take a break or try something different if you notice that things just aren’t working. Learning a new language should be exciting, so if your child is more frustrated than enthusiastic, it might be time to switch things up and make language learning fun again!
I’ve heard that learning two languages can cause a speech delay in kids. Is that true?
Not exactly. While it is true that some children who learn two languages simultaneously may take a little longer to start talking, these children still begin talking within the normal range of speech development, and will often experience a “language boom” shortly afterwards.
In other words, bilingual kids may not always begin speaking as early as their monolingual peers—but when they do, they’ll typically have a perfectly healthy timeline of speech development in both of their native languages.
When bilingual children develop an issue with their speech or language development, it usually becomes apparent in both languages—not just one—and it’s almost never related to the fact that they’re bilingual.
Is it too late to start teaching my child a second language?
Definitely not! While certain aspects of language learning come more naturally to younger learners, anyone can learn to be bilingual.
Different ages and stages of brain development all have different benefits when it comes to learning a new language. This means that there’s no way to “age out” of becoming bilingual—and there’s no perfect time to get started (other than right now)! With enough practice and dedication, even adults can learn to become comfortably fluent in a new language. Why not learn a new language along with your child?
How can I help support my child’s bilingual learning?
As is the case with all learning, one of the best indicators of your child’s success in learning a new language is the support they have from you. There are so many ways to help encourage and empower your child on their language learning journey—and to have fun in the process!
For now, remember that the best way to support your child’s language learning is to give them plenty of opportunities to see, hear, and use their new language. And whether they’re just getting started on their language learning journey or they’re already starting to feel bilingual, there’s always a way to make language learning even more fun and engaging!
by Rosie Byrnes
We know that there are many benefits of being bilingual, especially in an increasingly connected world. Many of us want to help our kids learn a new language, so they can be part of a larger global community. But what does it really mean to be bilingual, and how do we know when they’ve reached that mark?
As it turns out, the answer isn’t all that simple—even the experts don’t always agree.
Bilingualism is more than just knowing how to speak two languages.
Because language is so intertwined with culture and psychology, being bilingual can mean different things to different people. While some would say that bilingualism can describe anyone who speaks two languages, others’ definitions can be a bit more nuanced.
To some, bilingualism may only refer to people who grew up speaking two languages. Others might add the caveat that in order to be truly bilingual, someone needs to speak both languages equally well. Some would say that grammar and pronunciation are important factors in deciding whether or not a person is bilingual, while others argue that being able to switch effortlessly between two languages is the true benchmark of bilingualism.
There are endless criteria that could apply to whether or not someone is bilingual—and because all of them are subjective, it’s nearly impossible to settle on a single definition of “bilingualism.”
What’s more important, as some scholars say, is whether or not a person feels bilingual. Someone who grew up speaking two languages in another country, for example, may not feel bilingual anymore if they don’t have a connection to that culture anymore. On the other hand, someone who learned a second language later in life may rightly call themselves bilingual if they are comfortable switching between both languages in different contexts.
After all, language learning is a lifelong process, and our ability to communicate is inextricably linked to many other areas of our lives: our culture, our place in society, even our identities.
So while the basic definition of bilingualism—the ability to use two languages well—still broadly applies, whether or not someone is truly bilingual will depend on their specific circumstances and personal definition of the word.
There are different paths to becoming bilingual.
While there are lots of different ways to develop a new language, they all tend to fall under one of two categories: simultaneous bilingualism or sequential bilingualism.
While these terms might sound fancy, they’re actually pretty simple: simultaneous bilingualism means learning both languages at the same time (i.e. developing two “native” languages), while sequential bilingualism refers to the process of becoming fluent in one language at a time.
Neither process is necessarily better than the other, and learning two languages simultaneously doesn’t make a person “more bilingual” than someone who learns them sequentially. Why?
Because being bilingual isn’t about when you learn a new language; it’s about how thoroughly you’ve learned it.
Although no one can seem to agree on a specific definition of bilingualism, it’s true that knowing both languages to a certain degree of fluency is definitely a big part of what it means to be bilingual.
Perfect grammar and pronunciation aren’t necessarily dealbreakers when it comes to bilingualism—especially if bilingualism is something that is felt rather than achieved. But in order to feel truly bilingual, a person would have to feel comfortable enough to be immersed in their second language, and familiar enough to use it in different contexts.
Curious about whether your child is on the path to becoming bilingual? Here are some common questions parents ask about kids and bilingualism:
My child just started learning a new language in school. Are they bilingual?
Not yet—but they may well be on their way. Learning basic vocabulary (such as colors, numbers, and animals) and grammatical structures (like asking a question) are great stepping stones toward learning a new language—but most experts agree that basic-level language skills don’t constitute true bilingualism.
A person may even be able to hold a basic conversation in their second language, but they wouldn’t be considered truly “bilingual” until that language comes naturally to them in multiple different contexts.
Does my child have to be perfectly fluent in two languages to be considered “bilingual”?
Nope! In fact, most kids aren’t “perfectly” fluent in even one language—think of all the grammar mishaps and strange sentences that all young children display from time to time, even in their first language. Making mistakes is part of the language-learning process, so don’t worry if your kids’ fluency isn’t adult-level. It’s not supposed to be!
Most people who are bilingual also tend to have a dominant language: one in which they are more fluent, or one that they are more comfortable using most of the time. This can change over time depending on the learner’s environment, social circles, and developing skills—but having one language that’s dominant over the other doesn’t make a person any less bilingual.
How will I know when my child is bilingual?
Again, even the experts have a hard time agreeing on this one. There’s no one milestone to mark whether someone is bilingual or not, because being bilingual is so much more than just knowing another language. But as a general rule, it’s okay to assume that anyone who feels bilingual is bilingual!
In other words, you may notice your child naturally switching between both languages more often, or showing signs of becoming more and more comfortable using their second language. This is a good indication that their language skills are improving, and they may be getting closer to feeling truly bilingual.
Can a child living in a monolingual home become bilingual?
Yes! Many children who live in monolingual homes are able to become bilingual. For some kids, being immersed in another language outside of their homes (such as living or going to school within a culture that primarily speaks a different language than their parents) is a natural way to cultivate bilingualism. Other kids learn a second language through their social circles, or by studying and becoming immersed in other ways outside of the home.
If you are a monolingual parent and you’re hoping to help your child become bilingual, there are lots of ways to support them. Aside from giving them time to learn a second language outside of your home, try to immerse them in their new language as much as possible. Provide plenty of books and entertainment in their new language, and encourage them to use their new vocabulary in real life.
I am a bilingual parent. Which language should I speak to my child?
Whichever you feel most comfortable with! Some parents feel obligated to speak to their child in the “new” language more often, because they feel it will accelerate their child’s learning. Others use the one-person-one-language approach (i.e. Mom speaks only English and Dad speaks only French). But these may not work for every family, and it’s always important to keep positive relationships and open communication as a number-one priority.
If you feel more comfortable speaking one language over another, that’s totally okay. If you want to speak both languages with your child—or even use code-switching to mix the two together—that’s fine too! Communicating in a way that is comfortable and natural within your family is the only “best” way to set them up for learning success.
I’m worried that my child will get confused learning two languages at once. What should I do?
A lot of parents feel this way about encouraging their kids to learn multiple languages. And let’s be honest: learning a new language can be a little complicated or confusing at times, for both kids and adults. But there’s no evidence to suggest that learning two languages can confuse a child beyond repair. (In fact, being bilingual may actually help develop other amazing functions in the brain.)
You might notice that bilingual children occasionally mix their two languages together as they’re learning. This is perfectly normal, and nothing to worry about. In fact, this is actually a good thing, as it means that they’re learning to switch seamlessly between languages in order to best communicate what they’re trying to say.
And, just like with any new skill, it’s okay to take a break or try something different if you notice that things just aren’t working. Learning a new language should be exciting, so if your child is more frustrated than enthusiastic, it might be time to switch things up and make language learning fun again!
I’ve heard that learning two languages can cause a speech delay in kids. Is that true?
Not exactly. While it is true that some children who learn two languages simultaneously may take a little longer to start talking, these children still begin talking within the normal range of speech development, and will often experience a “language boom” shortly afterwards.
In other words, bilingual kids may not always begin speaking as early as their monolingual peers—but when they do, they’ll typically have a perfectly healthy timeline of speech development in both of their native languages.
When bilingual children develop an issue with their speech or language development, it usually becomes apparent in both languages—not just one—and it’s almost never related to the fact that they’re bilingual.
Is it too late to start teaching my child a second language?
Definitely not! While certain aspects of language learning come more naturally to younger learners, anyone can learn to be bilingual.
Different ages and stages of brain development all have different benefits when it comes to learning a new language. This means that there’s no way to “age out” of becoming bilingual—and there’s no perfect time to get started (other than right now)! With enough practice and dedication, even adults can learn to become comfortably fluent in a new language. Why not learn a new language along with your child?
How can I help support my child’s bilingual learning?
As is the case with all learning, one of the best indicators of your child’s success in learning a new language is the support they have from you. There are so many ways to help encourage and empower your child on their language learning journey—and to have fun in the process!
For now, remember that the best way to support your child’s language learning is to give them plenty of opportunities to see, hear, and use their new language. And whether they’re just getting started on their language learning journey or they’re already starting to feel bilingual, there’s always a way to make language learning even more fun and engaging!
References:
Birner , B. (n.d.). FAQ: Bilingualism. Linguistic society of america. Retrieved February 1, 2022, from https://www.linguisticsociety.org/resource/faq-what-bilingualism
Byers-Heinlein, K., & Lew-Williams, C. (2013). Bilingualism in the Early Years: What the Science says. LEARNing Landscapes, 7(1), 95–112. https://doi.org/10.36510/learnland.v7i1.632
Lowry, L. (n.d.). Bilingualism in Young Children: Separating Fact from Fiction. The Hanen Centre. Retrieved February 1, 2022, from http://www.hanen.org/helpful-info/articles/bilingualism-in-young-children--separating-fact-fr.aspx
Maurin, M. (2021, August 2). What does it mean to be bilingual? Babbel Magazine. Retrieved February 1, 2022, from https://www.babbel.com/en/magazine/the-bilingual-brain
Birner , B. (n.d.). FAQ: Bilingualism. Linguistic society of america. Retrieved February 1, 2022, from https://www.linguisticsociety.org/resource/faq-what-bilingualism
Byers-Heinlein, K., & Lew-Williams, C. (2013). Bilingualism in the Early Years: What the Science says. LEARNing Landscapes, 7(1), 95–112. https://doi.org/10.36510/learnland.v7i1.632
Lowry, L. (n.d.). Bilingualism in Young Children: Separating Fact from Fiction. The Hanen Centre. Retrieved February 1, 2022, from http://www.hanen.org/helpful-info/articles/bilingualism-in-young-children--separating-fact-fr.aspx
Maurin, M. (2021, August 2). What does it mean to be bilingual? Babbel Magazine. Retrieved February 1, 2022, from https://www.babbel.com/en/magazine/the-bilingual-brain
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