Raising a Bilingual Baby: Simple Tips for Early Language Success
Why I Introduced My Toddler to Finnish and German
From the start, we approached language intentionally. Living in Finland, it’s important for our son to learn Finnish. At the same time, I want him to grow up with my native language, German. We incorporate both languages into daily routines, while he also naturally encounters some English (because why not throw in a third language while he’s barely walking?).
Research shows that early exposure to multiple languages supports cognitive flexibility and language development. Children learn best when they are actively addressed, which is why we make everyday interactions interactive and engaging in both Finnish and German.
Although he isn’t speaking yet, he appears to understand both languages. We play Finnish songs for listening, read mainly Finnish books, and describe objects and activities in both languages.
At around 13 months, he began pointing at objects. I use this as an opportunity to describe them in Finnish and German, helping him connect words to things naturally.
Medical / Safety Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician or certified healthcare provider for guidance regarding your baby’s health and safety.
Toddler Development and Early Language Understanding
How Gestures Support Language Learning
- Pointing, waving, or shaking the head to express “more,” “finished,” or “come”
- Gestures help reinforce comprehension
- Linking words with actions lays a foundation for speech
I watch his responses closely and add words to gestures to expand his vocabulary (because apparently, toddlers are like little sponges, but way cuter).
Benefits of Early Multilingual Exposure
Even before speech emerges, exposure to multiple languages provides:
- Improved cognitive flexibility and attention control
- Enhanced task-switching skills (handy for later life, like deciding which snack to eat first)
- Stronger listening and comprehension
- Encouragement for confidence, curiosity, and social interaction
Seeing him respond to gestures and words reminds me how naturally toddlers absorb language (and how much patience we adults sometimes lack).
Books, Storytelling, and Interactive Learning
Using Parentese and Step-by-Step Narration
I use Parentese, a melodic, slightly slower way of speaking. During activities, I narrate steps:
“Now I take the salt shaker, add some salt, and put it back. Now I stir the food. I taste it. The food is ready.”
This links clear language with actions, making words meaningful (and giving me the illusion of gourmet cooking skills).
Finnish Songs and Music
- Daily listening to Finnish children’s songs
- Short, repeated sessions improve retention
- Observe which rhythms engage him most
Music helps him absorb vocabulary and rhythm, even before he speaks. Bonus: it may or may not improve your dance moves too.
Interactive Games and Everyday Activities
- Object-based learning: pointing, naming, showing actions
- Low-tech: puppets, picture cards, household objects
- High-tech: interactive apps or audiobooks (Finnish focus)
- Everyday routines: involve him in cooking, cleaning, sorting
Puppets and visual aids make words and stories more memorable (and slightly less chaotic than trying to explain laundry detergent).
Mealtime Strategies
- Narrate actions and sequences in Parentese or simple narration
- Describe each step during preparation and eating
- Use pointing, gestures, and repetition
Daily exposure during routine activities supports language naturally (and may help him survive toddlerhood without negotiating every bite).
Practical Daily Routines for Multilingual Learning
Preparing Your Home and Routines
- Breakfast: Point to food, name in Finnish and German
- Playtime: Books, stacking blocks, simple puzzles, everyday objects
- Walks or errands: Describe surroundings and actions
- Nap & bedtime: Quiet music or Finnish songs, point to books and objects
- Everyday actions: Include him in simple chores like cooking or tidying
Allowing him to point and interact keeps learning playful and engaging (because nothing says “fun” like folding laundry with commentary in two languages).
Ensuring Safety and Health
- Keep music at a safe volume
- Avoid small toy parts that could be choking hazards
- Maintain a safe environment for interactive play
Parent Tips for Supporting Multilingual Toddlers
Daily Observations
- Track gestures, pointing, and word responses
- Note favorite objects, books, and songs
- Adapt session length to mood and attention
- Celebrate comprehension milestones, even before speech
- Code-switching and temporary language dominance are normal
Keeping a small journal of gestures, reactions, and first sounds helps track progress (and gives you proof to brag about at playgroup).
Key Tips for Daily Success
- Consistency and intention over perfection
- Playful, frequent exposure works best
- Observe and adapt to your toddler’s interest
- Gestures and pointing are as valuable as words at this stage
Expect gestures, pointing, and understanding before speech emerges (because toddlers love being the boss of communication).
Checklist: Multilingual Toddler Essentials
Clothing
- Comfortable, weather-appropriate outfits
Gear
- Age-appropriate Finnish books
- Audio tools: Finnish songs, rhymes, apps
Daily Essentials
- Point and describe objects in Finnish and German
- Playtime items: toys, puzzles, stacking blocks
- Music listening for comprehension
Optional Items
- Picture cards for labeling objects
- Bilingual story apps
- Playgroup or community language exposure
Household Prep
- Visual cues: books, charts, frequently used objects
- Intentional daily language moments
- Observation notes: gestures, pointing, comprehension
Key Tips
- Accept code-switching as normal
- Recognize temporary dominant language
- Keep learning playful and interactive
- Adjust sessions according to mood and interest