Many parents find that baby sign language is a great way to communicate with their children before they can use speech. Babies can use their hands to imitate signs long before they are able to say the words. This eases a baby's frustration and makes it easier for mom and dad to understand what their child actually needs and wants. Though teaching a baby sign language can't be done overnight, there are some steps that can make baby signs both fun and easy for parent and baby.
Benefits of Signing With Baby
Some people have the misconception that signing with a baby will delay speech. Actually, Marilyn Daniels, in her article "The Effect of Sign Language on Hearing Children's Language Development," notes that the opposite is true. The use of sign language actually promotes language skills and development.
One of the best benefits of signing with baby is that frustration and crying spells can be reduced. Instead of wondering why the baby is crying, parents can know what their babies need and give it to them. Parent and child can understand each other and bond more easily.
Timeline for Beginning Sign Language for Babies
A parent can begin signing to a baby around six months of age, but it may take until ten months or later for the baby to begin signing back. Every baby is different, so the important thing is to consistently sign around the baby without expecting much in return for a while.
It can take months of signing the same things over and over to a baby before things start to click. Getting no response or feedback makes it difficult to keep signing, but it pays off later. Eventually, most babies will start signing back one or two words, and then later pick up signs more quickly.
Tips for Signing With Baby
It's best to choose a few simple signs to begin with and use them with the baby during the day. While the baby is eating or bathing can be a good time. Start with the signs for items baby might be interested in, such as "milk", "ball", "eat" or "drink."
Signing works best if it is done consistently and while the baby is most alert and receptive. This could be during meals, during playtime, or any other time the baby appears interested. Siblings and other family members can also get involved by signing as well. If the baby loses interest or wants to play instead, just follow the lead of the baby.
Before using a sign, make sure to have the baby's attention. Getting the baby's attention can be done in several ways, including using fun toys or props, singing a song, or reading a book while making appropriate signs.
One way to help the child learn signs faster is to help the baby form the sign. Use signs strategically (when baby is paying attention) and consistently. Use signs the baby might be motivated to use. Eventually, these strategies pay off.
Sign Language Resources
In the past, there may not have been much out there to aid parents in teaching their baby to sign. But that has changed now. Today there are plenty of books, DVDs, and other aids to help make it easier. A baby sign language DVD is useful, especially one that shows small children doing the signs. Use a free online sign language dictionary to learn new signs. There are many other free resources available online.
Signing with a baby is a useful and fun way to communicate. Using consistency and persistence, a baby or toddler will be signing right back in a relatively short time. Enjoy the time and use it to bond and share with baby.
Holli Jo Ronquillo - Holli Jo Ronquillo is a freelance writer and editor who has been writing professionally for several years. Her work has appeared in The ...
Join the Conversation