Whether you are thinking about signing for your baby or toddler, it's never too late to start signing!  Here is a free baby sign language lesson. Learning to sign will open a whole new level of communication that is fun and useful. 

Before you start write down any gestures you and your baby are already using.  Without even realizing it there may be many nonverbal gestures, like: nodding head "yes" or "no", blowing kisses, lifting arms to be picked up, etc. that your baby is already doing. Imitate the sounds and movements your baby makes and soon they will imitate you.  Babies are creative with using their own signs.  Continue to use these sign and don't change them.  Babies motor and memory skills develop when they are 6-10 months old. 

Start simple.  What motivates your baby? I usually like to start with "milk".  Start by naming the things your baby sees and does.  If they point to "milk" sign milk and say "milk".  You can pick what your baby is most interested in for choosing new signs.  Repeat the sign and word often.  Before, during and after each activity.  Signs should be taught informally while eating, bathing, changing, or playing. Make it part of your daily routine. 

When introducing a sign always exaggerate the movement while repeating the word.  Remember to reward signing behaviours with lots of praise.  The more fun you have the more enthusiastic your baby will be about learning signs.

If your baby doesn't get the sign right at first, don't worry, just be excited they are interested.  Never pressure your child or force baby signing at any time.  Patience is very important.  Keep it fun.

The easiest way to start  is to learn right along at the same pace as your child.  If it is easy enough for babies then you can pick it up too!

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