Communicating With Babies Using Sign Language
How and Why to Teach Infants to Use Signing Before Talking
Sep 8, 2009
It can be very frustrating for a baby to cry and cry while no one grasps what it is they want. Luckily, there is a way to understand infants before they are able to talk. Teaching a baby sign language is a very effective tool for understanding and communicating with them at a young age.
Why Teach an Infant Sign Language
Just because babies cannot effectively speak yet doesn't mean they aren't trying to communicate with their parents. They can easily become frustrated and start to cry and squeal when they are not being properly understood. This is the only means of conveying their wants and emotions until they learn to speak, which is the best reason to start them learning sign language early.
The child will be much more content when he realizes he can easily get his point across, leaving more time for playing and laughing with parents. Parents will be much more relaxed as well; a constantly crying baby can be frustrating for anyone to deal with.
How to Teach Babies Sign Language
A big question when starting is at what age is best to introduce sign language to babies. It can be started at any time, though babies tend to take it in best around 6-12 months. Starting from an earlier age is still acceptable if desired. It may take them a little longer to catch on but they will be more familiar with the process potentially making it easier.
There are many resources available to properly teach babies sign language, some found online for free. There are baby sign language classes, books and DVD's available for those who have the money and respond better to those methods. The baby will still benefit from the efforts put forth no matter which system of learning is used.
It is sometimes ideal to start with just one or a few signs at first and introduce more as time progresses. Repetition is key when trying to help baby learn the signs. If the first sign being introduced is eat, for example, make the sign before, during and after each meal. This will ensure the baby can easily identify that particular sign with the action. Before long he will be able to make the sign himself when he wants to eat, avoiding tantrums and fits of misunderstanding.
Individual Infant Development
It is important to remember that babies are individuals and develop at their own pace. It may take some longer than others, while some may catch on much faster. Typically, the process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months before the baby will start signing back. The time put in will be worth it though when parents see the result.
It may seem difficult at first, but with some patience and persistence that frustrated baby will be well on the way to being able to effectively communicate with parents through sign language.
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