Baby sign language is a method of using sign language to communicate with infants and toddlers before they are able to speak. The idea behind it is simple: babies can understand language long before they can speak. By teaching babies basic signs, parents can give them a way to communicate their needs and wants before they have the ability to say words.
Baby sign language is typically based on American Sign Language (ASL). The idea of using sign language to teach babies to communicate gained momentum in the 1980s, following the discovery that children of deaf parents were using sign language to communicate as early as 6 months old, almost a year before children in hearing families! Since then, researchers studied teaching signing to hearing families, and the benefits of baby sign language have become increasingly clear.
How to Teach Baby Sign Language: Tips and Techniques
Teaching your baby sign language may seem daunting at first, but it can be a rewarding experience for both you and your child. Here are some tips and techniques to help you get started:
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Start Early: The earlier you start teaching your baby sign language, the better. Babies can start to understand basic signs as early as 6 months old.
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Keep It Simple: Begin by teaching your baby simple signs for common words and concepts, such as "milk," "eat," "more," and "all done." These signs will help your baby communicate their basic needs and wants. Do not overwhelm your baby with too many signs at once.
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Repeat, Repeat & Repeat: Repetition is key. Repeat the signs frequently throughout the day. Whenever you use the word, make the sign, too.
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Be consistent: To help your baby learn, it's important to stay consistent with the signs you use. Make sure that everyone who interacts with your baby uses the same signs to avoid confusion.
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Be patient: Like any beautiful thing in life, it takes time! Your baby certainly will not start signing back immediately. Be patient, and your baby will eventually start using the signs. Often, it takes a couple of weeks to a couple of months for babies to sign back depending on their age.
The Benefits of Baby Sign Language: Why It's Worth Teaching Your Baby to Sign
Research shows that baby sign language has numerous benefits beyond simply improving communication. Here are some of the ways that baby sign language can benefit your child's development:
Earlier communication
By teaching your baby sign language, you can start communicating with them long before they are able to speak. This can help reduce frustration and tantrums, as your child can tell you what they need or want.
Improved language skills
Research has shown that babies who learn sign language tend to have better language skills later on. This is believed to be because sign language helps to reinforce language development in the brain.
Increased parent-child bond
Baby sign language can also help strengthen the bond between parent and child. When you are able to understand your baby's needs and wants, it helps build trust and a deeper connection.
Enhanced cognitive abilities
Learning sign language involves using visual and spatial skills, which can help improve your baby's overall cognitive abilities.
By teaching your baby sign language, you can help set them up for success in a variety of ways. Not only can it improve communication, but it can also have positive effects on their overall development and learning.
Baby Sign Language FAQ: Your Guide to Commonly Asked Questions
As with any new skill or practice, there are bound to be questions and concerns. Here are some commonly asked questions about baby sign language:
When Should I Start Teaching My Baby Sign Language?
Short: 6 months
Long: You can start teaching your baby sign language as early as six months old. At this age, babies are developing their communication skills and are more receptive to learning sign language. It is important to remember that every baby is different, and some may take longer to catch on than others.
Does Baby Sign Language Delay Speech?
Short: No
Long: One of the most frequently asked questions about baby sign language is whether it can delay speech development. The answer is no. In fact, studies have shown that babies who learn sign language tend to develop spoken language earlier than those who do not. This is because baby sign language helps to build a foundation for language by teaching babies the meaning behind words.
How Long Does It Take for Babies to Learn Sign Language?
Short: Varies a lot
Long: It varies from baby to baby and it depends on the age. It may take a couple months for younger babies to sign back. As they get older and understand the benefits of communication better, they can start learning faster. Older babies can start signing back in a matter of weeks or days.
Do I as a Parent Need to Be Fluent in Sign Language?
Short: No
Long: Parents don't need to be fluent in sign language to teach their babies. You can learn together with your baby. It's recommended to start with basic signs and gradually add more as the baby becomes more proficient.
How Many Signs Should I Teach My Baby?
Short: Start with these 2 and add more as you progress
Long: The number of signs you teach your baby will depend on several factors, including your own comfort level with sign language and your baby's interest and attention span. It is recommended to start with a few basic signs, such as "more," "milk," and "all done," and gradually introduce new signs as your baby becomes more comfortable with signing. Check out our guide to learn the 11 most practical signs to start with.
Do All Babies Benefit from Using Baby Sign Language?
Short: Yes, almost.
Long: While many babies benefit from learning sign language, it's important to remember that every child is different. Some babies may pick up signs quickly and easily, while others may take longer to learn. Additionally, some babies may not show as much interest in signing as others. Parents should observe their child's response to signing and adjust their approach accordingly.
Is Baby Sign Language Right for You and Your Baby?
Baby sign language is a valuable tool that can greatly benefit both parents and their babies. By teaching basic signs, parents can provide their infants and toddlers with an effective means of communication before they have developed the ability to speak. This not only reduces frustration and tantrums, but also promotes language development, cognitive development, and enhances parent-child bonding.
Overall, baby sign language is a simple and effective way to improve communication and strengthen the bond between parents and their children. So, if you're considering teaching your baby sign language, go ahead and give it a try - you may be surprised by just how quickly and easily your little one picks it up.
If you need help remembering to use the signs consistently, we got you covered. Check out our baby sign language collection!
