Signing With Your Baby: What is Involved?
Some parents may be hesitant to begin signing with their baby
even after hearing all of the wonderful benefits that come from
signing with your baby. After all, sign language takes years to
learn, doesn't it? Not at all! Learning to sign with your baby
is as easy as reading a recipe.
Teaching sign language isn't a time-consuming chore. Rather, it
can be worked into your life as a natural part of communication
with your child as well as the rest of your family. Think of it
as an extension of speech, and you talk to your baby every day.
You can start as early as six months of age. Remember, though,
that babies can take weeks or even months before making their
first sign.
No prior knowledge of sign language is required. Many parents
learn right along with their children, and it is even possible
to make up signs that make sense to you and your baby, rather
than worrying about finding and using the "correct" sign.
There are many resources available through the internet as well
as your local library. There are also books available that deal
specifically with this topic.
Simply choose a sign to begin with and use it when you have your
baby's complete attention. For example, use the sign for "milk"
before nursing or giving a bottle. Use it consistently, and soon
your baby will begin to imitate you.
Most importantly, have fun! Encourage others to join in. Make it
a family affair. Make it a game, rather than a burden.
Remember these helpful hints and soon you will be a pro at
signing.