Signing Steps to Success With Baby Sign Language
Signing Steps to Success With Baby Sign Language
1. Stay simple and start slowly.
When you introduce signing to your baby, gradually introduce the
signs one at a time. It is recommended to begin with
approximately five words and once your baby has begun to respond
to those words, you can introduce more. Sign language can be a
slow process depending on the age of your baby when you begin. A
six-month-old who is introduced to signing may begin signing
back to you anywhere from one month to six months later; it
simply depends on each individual child.
2. Be patient.
Every parent has the ability to teach his or her baby sign
language. A major downfall for some parents is their lack of
patience. Signing is not something that will happen overnight,
it is a relatively slow process depending on each individual
baby. Do not be discouraged. Your baby is learning from you and
will, when the time is right, let you know that they understand
through signing. This learning process introduces invaluable
interaction with your baby. Do not give up whatever you do. Be
patient and reap the rewards of sign language.
3. Be consistent.
Once you have decided on your initial five words, be consistent
in using them with your baby. For example, if you are using the
sign