2 - The Development of Two Languages

Summary

This chapter analyzes how languages are acquired in multilingual contexts and focuses on the development of phonological competence, morphosyntactic skills, and vocabulary. We discuss the differences and similarities that monolingual and bilingual children may show in language development, as well as possible advantages and disadvantages related to bilingualism. We explain that simultaneous exposure to two (or more) languages does not cause confusion or developmental delays, as is often feared by caregivers. We demonstrate that simultaneous bilinguals generally reach language milestones at the same age as monolinguals.