Begin Communicating With Your Baby Using These Simple Baby Sign Language Tips

Until they start speaking, babies have a limited way to communicate. Unfortunately, crying is their primary form of expression, which can lead to stress for both you and your little one. Babies often cry to signal a range of needs, from hunger to a dirty diaper, making it challenging for parents to decipher their preverbal desires. This is where baby sign language comes into play, helping to bridge the communication divide before your child speaks their first words.

Although baby sign language has been around since the 1800s, its rising popularity may make it seem like a trend. However, baby sign language can be an effective means of communication with your child—just remember to keep your expectations in check. Many online programs claim to enhance your baby’s intelligence or even increase their chances of attending prestigious colleges. In reality, the goal of signing should be to enrich your baby’s daily life, not to create a child prodigy.

Most importantly, signing can be enjoyable for both you and your baby, fostering a stronger bond between parent and child. It’s also relatively easy for parents to learn, as the signs for preverbal infants differ from the more complex signs found in American Sign Language (ASL). The basic hand gestures paired with essential words—like milk, mom, dad, and hungry—are straightforward to master and teach to your child. It’s crucial to remember that signing should complement, not replace, verbal communication. Research hasn’t shown that baby sign language inhibits speech development, so be sure to say the words aloud while signing to help your baby grasp both the sign and its verbal meaning.

When Should You Start Teaching Baby Sign Language?

The great news is that it’s never too late to introduce sign language to your baby. If you want to start signing with your 12-month-old, feel free! As long as you approach it as a fun activity rather than a chore, the process will be enjoyable for your preverbal toddler. Ideally, you can begin showing signs between 4 to 6 months, but don’t expect immediate results. Babies at this age are just learning to grasp and hold objects, so they may not start signing back until around 8 months. In the meantime, focus on teaching signs through repetition. For example, when teaching the sign for milk (make two fists and then flex your fingers before returning them to the fist position), demonstrate the sign, say the word aloud, show your baby the bottle, and then give it to them.

Don’t wait for your baby to sign back before handing over their milk or toy. Teaching your child to sign requires patience and practice. If you practice the signs multiple times a day, ideally during consistent moments like mealtime or playtime, you’ll be on the right track.

Which Basic Baby Sign Language Signs Should You Start With?

Now that you know when to begin, consider what signs to teach your baby. Thankfully, there are numerous online tutorials and resources available. You can also find books and classes if that interests you and your child. Baby sign language emphasizes simplicity, so you’ll avoid teaching complex phrases. Instead, focus on the words you use most with your baby. Some practical signs include milk, hungry, more, yes, no, play, mom, and dad. If your baby enjoys signing, you can expand their vocabulary with signs for animals or simple phrases like “I love you.” For example, to sign “please,” simply hold your hand flat and rub it in a circular motion on your chest. For “thank you,” touch your fingers to your chin and pull them away with your palm facing up.

Teaching your baby to sign opens a new channel of communication between you and your child. The best part is that this language is flexible—your baby might even develop their own unique signs for words. If you’re looking for a way to connect the gap between baby babbling and first words, baby sign language could be the perfect fit for your family.

Is Sign Language Beneficial for Babies?

Absolutely! Sign language is not only a useful tool for kids to learn, but it also helps them express emotions they may not yet have the vocabulary for. Baby sign language provides children with a means to express frustration, which can reduce crying and tantrums. Remember, when teaching your baby to sign, continue to use verbal communication. Sign language complements spoken language, so ensure you’re talking as you sign, helping your child learn to communicate in both forms.

What Are the Differences Between ASL and Baby Sign Language?

There are several key differences between ASL and baby sign language. ASL is a complete language with its own grammar and structure, while baby sign language is designed to enhance a baby’s existing language skills. It consists of particular signs that help communicate a baby’s needs.

How Do I Teach My Baby Sign Language?

Since babies’ brains are incredibly receptive at a young age, keep these tips in mind to help them absorb sign language gestures effectively:

Start teaching early.
Speak and sign simultaneously.
Use baby sign language regularly.
Reward your baby when they successfully use a hand gesture. This positive reinforcement will encourage them to continue.

This article was originally published on May 13, 2021.

For more insights, check out this home insemination kit post. Additionally, if you’re exploring fertility options, you might find useful information on fertility boosters for men. An excellent resource for understanding the process of conception is this Wikipedia page on artificial insemination.

Possible Search Queries:

In summary, baby sign language can be a fun and effective way to enhance communication with your little one. By starting early, using simple signs, and reinforcing verbal language, you can foster a deeper connection with your child.