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Two languages at home: raising a bilingual baby

Speak the languages you know best, and use them every day. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association says using more than one language does not confuse children or cause speech or language delays, and that mixing words from two languages in one sentence is an expected part of learning both.

Checked October 29, 2026.

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Will two languages confuse my baby or slow down their talking?

No, according to ASHA: “Using multiple languages does not confuse children or cause speech or language delays.” Its milestone pages say the same in plain words: learning multiple languages will not cause speech or language problems. If a child does have a communication problem, ASHA says it shows up in all the languages they use, so it isn't caused by the second one.

Is it normal for my toddler to mix languages?

Yes. ASHA calls mixing words or grammar from different languages “an expected part of learning and using more than one language at a time.” Answer them naturally, and keep using both languages.

How do families raise children with two languages?

There's no single right way. Some families split languages by person (each grown-up speaks their own), some by place (one at home, another outside), and some mix. What ASHA asks for is plenty of chances: give your child many chances to hear and practice your languages every day, and start early.

  • Talk in the languages you're most comfortable using, as ASHA advises.
  • Read and sing in both. Borrow books in your home language from the library, or tell the story in your language while you look at the pictures.
  • Find people to talk with in each language: grandparents, friends, a story time in that language.

Are the CDC's milestone checklists in Spanish?

Yes. The CDC's Learn the Signs. Act Early. program has its pages in Spanish as Aprenda los signos. Reaccione pronto., with checklists to complete online and the CDC's milestone app, called Sigamos el Desarrollo in Spanish, for tracking milestones from 2 months.

When should I ask for help?

If you're worried, ASHA suggests talking with a speech-language pathologist. If you can, look for one who speaks your languages. Your child's doctor can help you find one, and the first words page has the CDC's milestones and the early intervention finder.

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