17 July 2024
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Multilingualism has been linked with many benefits for children and families.

Children may learn multiple languages simultaneously, and may show a preference for one language.

Receptive language skills are key in determining if speech pathology intervention is required for multilingual children.

The amount of exposure to each language directly impacts language acquisition, and the trajectory of language development for multilingual children can differ from monolingual children. 

When a child has strong skills in their first language, they are better able to learn additional languages.

Early referral to speech pathology is critical if a child is having difficulty with understanding and following verbal information in their primary language.

Additional resources

Speech pathology service directory in South Western Sydney

23-minute webinar: The Benefits of Multilingualism

Interview for careforkids.com.au: Teaching multiple languages to under fives

Expert in the field of multilingualism: Paola Escudero

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These articles are written by members of the ‘Stronger Seeds, Taller Trees’ project which includes professionals from a number of government and non-government organisations in South Western Sydney. The group aims to support GPs working with families to navigate and access timely services when they have a concern about a child’s development.