Growing up with more than one language is a strength, not a risk. We support bilingual and multilingual children across Melbourne's diverse South-East — and we never ask families to drop their home language.
Two languages don't cause speech problems
One of the most common worries we hear is whether learning two languages will “confuse” a child or cause delay. The evidence is reassuring: bilingualism does not cause language disorders, and bilingual children reach major milestones on a similar timeline to monolingual children when you look at their total vocabulary across all their languages. Mixing languages in a sentence is a normal, sophisticated skill — not a sign of confusion.
When to look more closely
The key question isn't “is my child behind in English?” — it's whether difficulties show up across every language your child knows. A true language difficulty affects all of a child's languages, not just the one they've had less exposure to. If home-language milestones are on track but English is still developing, that's usually just a matter of time and exposure.
How we support bilingual families
- We gather information about all of your child's languages, using family input and interpreters where helpful
- We draw on what's typical across different language backgrounds, not just English norms
- We support your child's communication without treating a home language as something to “work around”
- We coach families to keep offering rich language in whatever tongue feels most natural
Culturally responsive by nature
Our practice is neuro-affirming and culturally responsive. We warmly welcome children and families of every culture, language and background — because communication and identity belong together. This often works alongside our language therapy and early intervention support.
Common questions
Will two languages confuse or delay my child?
No. Bilingualism doesn't cause speech or language delay. Bilingual children reach milestones on a similar timeline when you consider their total vocabulary across all their languages.
Should we speak only English at home to help?
No — this is a myth worth debunking firmly. English-only at home doesn't speed up English and can weaken your child's home language and family connection. Keep speaking whatever language feels natural.
How do you assess a child who speaks another language?
Wherever possible we assess and gather information across all of a child's languages, using family input and interpreters, and we consider what's typical for children with that language background — not just English norms.
Let's help your child be heard
Send a referral in a couple of minutes — families and professionals are both welcome. We'll be in touch within 24–48 hours.