Being a mom is one of life's greatest blessings and joys. However, it isn't always easy being a mom and there are many
moms out there with lots of questions about this role! That's where this website comes in. This site is dedicated to moms
and it's purpose is to share experiences and advice about children...from one mom, to another!

Saturday, May 7, 2011

Teaching Sign Language to Babies

There is a lot of "buzz" these days about teaching babies sign language so they can communicate their needs.  For those of us who have actually taught their babies certain signs,  we know that it really is a very valuable skill.  Children have less frustration and tantrums because they can let their parents or caregivers know exactly what they need.  This in turn helps develop a stronger bond between parent and child.  Developmentally, babies begin working on fine motor skills at a young age so it makes sense that they would use their hands to communicate needs.  Studies have shown that signing does not delay speech development and in fact, children who sign have much larger vocabularies and acquire verbal language much easier. 

When I started teaching Leah sign language, I felt it was helpful to actually see the sign being used.  A simple picture of an action was not enough.  So, we made some very short videos so you can see the signs in action!  Suggestion:  When teaching your child a sign, it is helpful to take their hands and actually do the action.  Yes, watching you do it will help, but feeling how it should be done will be extremely helpful!

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