Bilingualism

Bilingualism occurs when there is a practical need to use more than one language. In the United States (U.S.), children may learn a second language when they enter the educational system at either preschool or kindergarten. There is a great deal of variability in how well children perform in each language. This variability is based on when and how children become bilingual, the amount of time exposed to each language, and the kinds of language needs for each situation.

Types of Bilinguals

Timing in the acquisition of the first and second language can influence proficiency in each of the languages. Simultaneous bilingualsare those who are exposed to two languages from birth. Simultaneous bilinguals may grow up in families in which one parent or caregiver speaks one language to the children, whereas the other parent or caregiver speaks a different language, or where a parent uses both languages interchangeably. If exposure to two languages begins before the age of 2 years, a child may...