My oldest was fortunate enough to learn some basic sign language from a baby sitter. It was the most wonderful thing! He was just a year and could tell me exactly what he wanted. I knew if he wanted a drink, to eat or a diaper change. I appreciate the work she put in to teach him, it made both of our lives much easier in the end! I thought it was important to teach my next two sign language as well, although I guess I didn’t have the patience do to a good job. Neither of them learned it.
To teach sign language, you have to of course learn it first. Some great sites with free words are:
You can also find books at almost any bookstore, or my favorite the public library.
Babies are able to begin signing at about eight months. It is important that you stay consistent and do the sign each and every time you say the word. This is where my downfall was. I had other children to care for and would forget to do the sign, so my two youngest never caught on. Too bad my awesome sitter moved away! Signing is so wonderful for babies to learn, there are so many benefits including accelerating verbal language and literacy. Learn a few words, teach one at a time and see the excitement in your child’s eyes when they see you can understand what they want!
(Photo By: Thadson)
