Baby sign language is fun and beneficial! Sign language can be introduced to children as early as 6 months of age. There are many advantages to teaching sign language to your child. The development of speech, language, social, emotional and academic skills is enhanced through the use of sign language. With some basic signs, your child can enhance her communication skills, develop better emotional health, and improve her IQ level.
Sign language stimulates areas of the brain that are linked to speech and language. Because babies develop gross motor skills before verbal speech, learning signs is a great way to build a young child’s vocabulary early on. While sign language allows all children to express themselves and strengthen their communication, children with special needs may find sign language especially rewarding. In particular, children who experience difficulties with expressive language and verbal ability can learn to communicate effectively through sign language. As an added bonus, this can enhance self-esteem as children develop confidence in their ability to communicate!
Baby sign language has also been found to lead to happier, less distressed babies. It is simple: if your baby can successfully communicate his needs and have them met, there is less opportunity for frustration and tantrums! For this reason, first signs are often “milk” and “more.” This also helps parents feel less stress and greater confidence in their parenting abilities.
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Lastly, by introducing baby sign language into a daily routine, babies can enhance their IQ level. Studies have found that children who signed as babies developed a larger vocabulary, started reading earlier, had better school performance, and achieved higher IQ scores.
Before you begin, here are some pointers…
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1. Start as early as possible!
2. Ask family members to participate.
· When family members are babysitting, they can easily communicate with your child.
3. Practice, practice, practice.
· Make flash cards and use wall charts. Try making it fun by baby signing during an activity, game, or song.
4. Add new signs to expand vocabulary.
· Start out with familiar words such as family, places, time, temperature, food, clothes, feelings, requests, amounts, health, colors, and animals.
5. Stay confident!
· It’s not easy to pick up something. Give your child time and remain positive.
