What is sequential bilingualism?
Sequential bilingualism is when a child learns a second language after their first language is already established, often when starting nursery or school, or after moving to a new country.
Sequential bilinguals, sometimes called successive bilinguals, build their second language on top of a first language they already know. This is very common for children of families who move abroad, or for children whose home language differs from the language used at school.
For example, a four-year-old who has spoken only Hindi at home starts school in England. At first, they may understand little English and stay quiet for a while. Over the following months, they begin using simple phrases, then longer sentences, while continuing to speak Hindi with family.
Children learning a second language this way often go through recognisable stages, including a silent period, using short memorised phrases, and gradually building more flexible speech. Their first language can also help: concepts they already know in one language can transfer to the other.
Practical tips: keep using your home language with your child. A strong first language supports learning a second one, and dropping it can mean losing an important family connection. Give your child time and avoid pressure to speak. Offer easy, enjoyable input in the new language, such as picture books, songs and stories. Hearing a familiar story first in the home language and then in the new language can make the new words easier to follow.
If your child seems to struggle in their first language as well, or you have concerns about their development, a speech-language therapist can help.
