Bilingualism — Speech Therapy Support

Raising your child in two languages and wondering if their speech is developing properly? Your child mixes languages, speaks less than monolingual peers, or “prefers” one language? These are normal stages of bilingual development. But sometimes it’s worth checking whether something else is going on underneath.

What’s normal and what should concern you?

Normal in bilingualism:

• Mixing languages in one sentence (code-mixing) — this is not a mistake, it’s a skill. The child picks whichever word comes easier.
• A slightly smaller vocabulary in each language separately (but the combined vocabulary across both languages is comparable to monolingual peers).
• Preference for one language — especially the one the child uses more often (kindergarten, friends).

Worth consulting when:

• The child has delays in BOTH languages (not just the “weaker” one)
• They have trouble understanding simple instructions in both languages
• They don’t build sentences in either language (for their age)
• They avoid verbal communication and prefer gestures
• Kindergarten or school reports speech/communication concerns

How I can help

• Differential diagnosis — I distinguish whether difficulties stem from bilingualism (typical) or a language disorder (requiring therapy). This is key, because bilingual children are too often sent to therapy unnecessarily, while those with real difficulties are ignored because “it’s the two languages.”
• Parent consultations — how to support both languages at home? Should you speak only one language to your child? What to do when the child refuses to speak Polish? I give practical advice tailored to your situation.
• Polish pronunciation therapy — for children growing up abroad or in a mixed-language environment who need support with Polish articulation.
• I offer therapy in Polish and English.

In-person and online sessions

For families abroad or in another city, I offer online consultations and therapy. The initial assessment takes place in person at my office in Gdansk, Poland, and follow-up sessions can be remote.

📞 577 600 985
📧 neurologopeda.grzegrzolka@gmail.com