Infant sign language has caught on over the recent years and many parents and caregivers are using it.  Starting sign language early is widely accepted and a legitimate form of early communication.

When babies are taught how to sign, they are able to communicate not only their thoughts, but also their needs, wants, desires and even pain that may have otherwise been misinterpreted. Parents are often left guessing exactly what babies want or need and this can turn into frustration for both parents and baby.  Learning to sign will help reduce the guessing for answers. 

Infants have a desire to communicate, why not use their natural gestures and develop a fun easy way of early communication.

Infants develop fine muscles in their hands before they develop those required for speech. They have the ability to understand and use language; however, they usually are not able to produce speech until after 12 to 24 months of age.  Learning sign language helps develop the brain in the critical early years of language development and enables a child to be an active communicator at a much earlier age. Learning sign language does not delay speech, but in fact aids speech development. Most signing babies speak earlier than babies who do not learn baby sign language.

Babies have a lot to say so help them say it with infant sign language.

Different behaviours are expressed by a desire to communicate.  Whether it's a cry to be fed or a cry of frustration, this may be your baby's way of showing you they need or want some attention.  They also communicate through gurgles and coos and it's up to the parent or caregiver to interpret these sounds and it's not an easy task.

Signing with your child promotes a unique bonding experience between you and your child. 

Signing with your child is very easy and it is a natural process for your child. You can start teaching your child sign language as early as 6 months. Your child may still be pointing and gurgling but he/she can show a sign to let you know what he wants. Also, you can use a sign along with a word which may make it easier for the child to understand.

So let's get started!

To learn more about a program that will teach you all you need to know about baby sign language, click here.