Sign Language

I've been doing some reading and research about baby sign language because I'll be offering this class this fall. I ran across an interesting article. Even though sign language is a great way to encourage early communication in young children, some parents, like the one in the article, are concerned that this form of early communication might delay their child's verbal development. I MAY have been one of these parents years ago. I thought maybe it would make my child 'lazy' and they wouldn't feel like they needed to speak. But I tried it and it was great!

The opposite is typically true. The combined experience of movement and spoken language encourages your baby's understanding of the word, as well as increases retention of the new word. This is because he is engaged actively in the learning experience and movement has stimulated the brain to receive the incoming information . It becomes a multi-sensory experience and activates more of the brain.

Parents can begin to work on baby sign language as early as 3-6 months, and children will typically begin to sign back around 6-12 months old. However, it's not too late if your child is past that age. Sign language can be a fun way to communicate for children of all ages. I recommend taking a sign language class with your child to learn how to present the signs in an interactive, age appropriate and fun way. A sign language class will also help you to understand your child's hand development. If a sign is too difficult for them to form, your child will likely make adjustments to the sign. Once you learn what to look for you may be surprised to find your child has several signs they are ready to use.

I remember the first time my now 2 year old put 2 signs together by himself. He signed 'more milk' and I wanted to do a back flip! I was so excited because he was able to tell me what he wanted without any frustration or concern and I was able to meet his need! Classes start in September!!