How Speech Therapy Helps Bilingual Children in Phnom Penh Thrive

In a multicultural city like Phnom Penh, many children grow up speaking two or more languages. While bilingualism is a gift that enhances brain development and cultural connection, it can also raise questions for parents: Is my child confused? Why is she mixing languages? Why hasn’t he started speaking yet?

At OrbRom Center, we specialize in speech therapy for bilingual children—helping families understand the difference between language delays and typical bilingual development. With the right support, children can become confident communicators in both Khmer and English, without pressure or confusion.

Understanding Bilingual Language Development
Bilingual children may develop speech and language skills differently than monolingual peers. Some common patterns include:

• Language Mixing: Using words from two languages in the same sentence

• Silent Periods: A temporary pause in speaking as the child absorbs both languages

• Uneven Development: One language may be stronger than the other depending on exposure

• Delayed Speech: Some bilingual children start talking later—but most catch up

These are usually normal. However, when delays persist in both languages or interfere with learning and interaction, speech therapy can help.

Signs a Bilingual Child May Need Speech Therapy
If your child is bilingual and shows the following signs, they may benefit from speech-language support:

• Very few words in either language by age 2

• Difficulty forming complete sentences

• Not understanding instructions in either language

• Frustration or behavioral outbursts during communication

• Struggles in both home and school settings

At OrbRom Center, our Developmental Assessments evaluate each language separately and together, so we can create a personalized plan that supports both languages without overwhelming the child.

How OrbRom Center Supports Bilingual Learners
Our speech-language pathologists understand that bilingualism is not a disorder. We work with the child’s dominant language first—then gradually support the second language as confidence grows. Our therapy may include:

• Play-based language activities in both Khmer and English

• Vocabulary building with visuals, objects, and stories

• Sentence structure practice using everyday routines

• Code-switching strategies to help children stay flexible without confusion

• Parent coaching so families can support both languages at home

Therapy is personalized, not one-size-fits-all. We adapt based on the child’s exposure to each language, family background, and educational environment.

Supporting Bilingualism at Home
Parents play a powerful role in bilingual development. We encourage families to:

• Stay consistent: One parent, one language is helpful, but not required

• Read books in both languages: This improves vocabulary and grammar awareness

• Avoid translating every word: Focus on natural language flow

• Talk, sing, and play in your strongest language: Fluency is more important than balance

To create a calm, focused environment, we recommend sensory tools like the Sleep Sound Machine for better bedtime routines or the Sensory Rocking Chair to support focus during learning time.

These tools are available in our Sensory Shop and can help bilingual children stay regulated while learning new language skills.

Myths About Bilingualism and Speech Delay
Many families are told to “drop a language” if their child is delayed. This is outdated advice. Research clearly shows:

• Bilingualism does not cause language delay

• Limiting to one language can harm identity and family connection

• Children can succeed in both languages with the right support

At OrbRom Center, we support both languages—so children grow up feeling empowered, not limited.

Why Phnom Penh Families Trust OrbRom Center
We understand the linguistic and cultural diversity of Cambodia’s capital. Our bilingual speech therapy program is uniquely designed for Phnom Penh families and offers:

• Therapists fluent in both Khmer and English

• Flexible communication plans tailored to each family’s language use

• Parent education and strategy coaching

• Cultural sensitivity in therapy materials and approach

• Sensory-friendly learning environments for all children

We work with schools when needed to ensure children succeed in both languages, academically and socially.

Conclusion: Support Bilingual Success from the Start
Being bilingual is an advantage—but it comes with its own learning curve. With specialized support, bilingual children in Phnom Penh can speak clearly, express themselves fully, and thrive in every setting.

At OrbRom Center, our speech therapy services honor each child’s unique linguistic path. Whether your child is struggling to speak, mixing languages, or falling behind in school, we’re here to guide you forward with empathy, knowledge, and proven techniques.

Learn more about our Speech Therapy Services and book a consultation today.