My child mixes languages – does that mean they’re confused?
Code-mixing in multilingual children: what is it and how should you deal with it?
Supporting a multilingual child is a wonderful journey, but it can also raise many doubts and questions. A common phenomenon observed in multilingual children is ‘language mixing’, known in linguistics as code mixing (when two languages are mixed within a word or sentence) and code switching (when the language is switched from one sentence to the next). If your child mixes their languages, it is understandable that you might worry and wonder whether they are confused or having difficulty acquiring both languages. However, this is a natural phenomenon typical of bilingual or trilingual speakers.
In this article, I’d like to explore the meaning of the terms code mixing and code switching in more detail, explain why they do not indicate confusion, and outline what you, as a parent, can do to support your child’s language development.
Why do bilingual children mix their languages? Because they can!
What are code mixing and code switching?
Code mixing occurs when a person mixes words from different languages within the same sentence, or even combines parts from different languages within a single word. For example: “I want to play with the bambola”, instead of saying “doll”. In a famous anecdote from my childhood as a German-Italian bilingual toddler, I am said to have said “Ich bin gesaltet”, by which I meant “I jumped”. In doing so, I correctly combined the root of the Italian verb ‘saltare’ with the correct prefix and suffix of the German past tense. All correct and perfectly understandable, isn’t it?
Code switching generally refers to switching from one language to another within a conversation or a sentence. This term is also often used as a synonym for code mixing.
This phenomenon is very common not only among children but also among multilingual adults. It shows that the person possesses a wealth of linguistic resources and reflects the brain’s ability to process several languages simultaneously. In short: it is not a symptom of overload or confusion, but rather the privilege of being able to choose and simply use the preferred word with which one can communicate best.
Language mixing is not a sign of confusion
One of the most widespread myths is that mixing languages is a symptom of confusion or being overwhelmed. However, scientific research proves exactly the opposite. Mixing languages does not mean that the child is unable to distinguish between them.
On the contrary: Multilingual children develop an awareness of the differences between the languages they are learning at an early age. But why do they mix them?
A child may mix languages for various reasons:
- Limited vocabulary in one language: If a child does not know a word in one language, they borrow it from the other language to express themselves better.
- More efficient communication: Sometimes a word or a sentence in one language is simply shorter, more apt or easier to use than its equivalent in another language. Or it simply comes to mind first.
- Social environment: Children mix languages to adapt to their social environment or the people around them. For example, if they live in a region or community where mixing languages is a normal part of everyday life for all speakers.
- Because it’s fun! If your child is fluent in both languages, mixing them is simply fun! And of course, they know which people they can do this with. So you don’t need to worry, because mixing languages is a sign of your child’s cognitive flexibility and their ability to switch between two (or more) language systems.
How should you react when your child mixes languages?
Not worrying is good, but should we just let them carry on talking without intervening? Of course, as the mum or dad of a multilingual child, you have a responsibility to promote balanced language development. Here are a few recommendations.
- Don’t correct your child
It’s normal to want to correct your child when they mix languages, but you could demotivate them or put them under pressure. What’s more, your correction interrupts the flow of conversation and the naturalness of the situation you’re in. But how are they supposed to learn then? You can correct them implicitly by rephrasing what they’ve said correctly and replying in the chosen language. For example:
Child: “Where is my bambola?”
Parent: “Oh, I just saw your doll under the bed!”
Or:
Child: “Mum, I don’t want any latte anymore!”
Parent: “If you don’t want any more milk now, you can have it later!”
2. Lead by example
Children learn by observing their parents, listening to them and imitating them. If you want your child to learn to keep the languages clearly separate, then be consistent. This applies not only if you use the OPOL system (“one parent, one language”), but also if one parent speaks more than one language with the child. Try to use the language you want to teach as clearly as possible, without mixing it up, and switch according to very clear rules (context or situation). For example: at breakfast you always speak German, or at home you speak German and outside the house Italian, or in the evenings you read books to your child in Italian. Choose a system and stick to it. This is important to help them store the languages separately.
These are important rules, but personally I also say: You are a multilingual family, you have the privilege of speaking several languages, and if you enjoy mixing your languages now and then, then go ahead!
3. Building vocabulary
To prevent your child from searching for words in their first language because they don’t know them in the second language or can’t think of them straight away, you should ensure they have plenty of opportunities to hear and use both languages in different contexts. There are many ways to do this: reading books aloud, singing songs together and, above all, interacting with people who speak the second language.
4. Take your time
Every child develops their language skills at their own pace. Over time, your child will mix the languages less and less as their vocabulary grows and they feel more confident using them.
5. Encourage your child and acknowledge their progress
Instead of focusing on difficulties or perceived mistakes, pay attention to your child’s progress and acknowledge it. This is an important part of the LingFLoWS® method: celebrating successes to make further progress! This is important for you to stay motivated, and just as important for your child, who senses your enthusiasm. Keep encouraging your child to be proud of their language skills and to realise that you are a multilingual family!
When should I be concerned?
Although mixing languages is normal for multilingual children, there are generally some situations where it might be advisable to consult a speech therapist or a specialist in language development:
– If the child shows a significant delay in reaching language milestones (e.g. if they say very few words at 18 months or are still not forming sentences at the age of 2–3 years).
– If the child appears to have persistent difficulties with understanding or speaking in both languages, i.e. if the difficulties relate to communication in general, rather than to the languages themselves.
– If there are signs of a regression in language development (e.g. if the child suddenly stops speaking a language they previously used regularly).
Remember that every child is unique and that there can be significant differences in language development from one child to another.
Conclusion: Language mixing is a natural phenomenon for children growing up in a multilingual environment.
It is absolutely not a sign of confusion, but rather proof of the cognitive flexibility and creativity of the human brain in adapting to multiple language systems.
As a parent, it is your role and responsibility to support your child in this process. Try to create a learning environment that is tailored to their needs and rich in linguistic stimuli; be patient and understanding, and always remember that bilingualism or trilingualism is a precious gift that will enrich your child’s life.
If you need personalised advice for your specific family situation or have specific questions about your child’s language development, I’d be happy to help. Together, we can find a strategy that works for you – without stress or pressure, but in a natural and carefree way. Book a free appointment here!
