Baby sign language is more than just a trend—it
can offer a variety of benefits to parents and babies alike. Try teaching your
child a few basic signs to improve communication.
Learning the Signs
Every child is different, but most babies can begin learning sign language
at about 7 to 8 months old. Teaching your baby to sign requires patience,
repetition and plenty of praise. Start with basic signs, and make the process as
fun as possible by incorporating sign language into favorite activities, such as
singing or dancing. This is important so the child learns the
meaning and how to produce the spoken word, as well as the sign.
Top Six Signs to Teach Your Baby
Since repetition is key, begin with simple signs that can be used in
everyday situations. Start with these basic words:
- Eat. Touch the tip of your thumb to your fingers on the same hand and tap your hand on your mouth.
- More. Form both hands into O shapes and bring them together and separate them repeatedly.
- All done. Put both hands up in front of you with palms facing out. Repeatedly rotate your palms inward, then outward.
- Diaper. Place your hands at waist level and tap your index and middle finger to your thumbs on each hand as if you are playing castanets.
- Hot. Form your hand into a claw shape over your mouth. Move the hand away from your mouth, rotating it so the sign ends with your palm facing outward.
- Thank you. Flatten your hand and touch your fingertips to your chin. Bring your fingers forward as if you are blowing a kiss.
These are just a few useful signs to teach your child. As your baby masters
them, continue expanding his or her vocabulary with new signs.
Reviewed by Michelle Wagner-Escobar, M.A., C.C.C.-A., audiologist, Ear, Nose and Throat Center, Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent
