Baby Sign Language is an increasingly popular tool for early communication for babies in the age group of 4 months to 30 months. It is usually based on keyword signing, where simple gestures are used to convey the meaning of a word to the baby who is not yet able to speak that word. These gestures are generally the same in all sign languages around the world as the keywords used in this early age group are very common ones such as milk, more, eat and drink.

Some people who do not recognize the long term benefits of signing with their hearing babies may be excused for thinking that Baby Sign Language is a fad or the latest passing trend in modern parenting. Many don’t realize however that the benefits of Baby Sign Language are supported by over 30 years of research. These benefits include earlier communication, reduced frustration, increased language comprehension and further opportunities for bonding between parent and baby.

In the early years, infant communication is limited mostly to movement of their arms and bodies. Infants use an extensive range of body language, facial expressions and verbal sounds to interact with you. These all eventually evolve into language.

Growth and brain development during these early years, especially the first 2 years is more rapid than at any other stage of a child’s life. One of the most crucial milestones in a child’s development is the development of their social skills and the ability to interact appropriately with others. The basis for appropriate social interaction is effective communication.

Teaching a body language based communication method such as baby sign language at an early age can encourage mutual understanding and provides a strong foundation for the development of social skills. It also enhances the bond between parent and child as they feel understood and secure in their environment and relationships.

Infants are naturally attracted to movement especially when the movement is performed by a parent. Each gesture is to be used with repetition of the associated word making babies more interested in the meaning of keywords from an earlier age. These baby signs will help them express their wants and needs.

Babies and children in general believe that the whole world revolves around them. They are the centre of the universe as they know it. On the contrary though, they have absolutely no control over what happens in their world. They suffer the limitations of a world without speech. For children with slightly delayed speech development this frustration can often be the worst. As boys tend to speak later than girls, this frustration in boys can sometimes lead to problems with aggression. Some children are simply more interested in developing their motor skills than their verbal skills. Either way, signing with them from an early age will help their communication development.

Teaching your baby sign language also teaches them that there is more to communication and social interaction than just words. Effective communication does involve hand gestures, body movements and facial expression. Being a visual language it is fascinating to children as it stimulates their curiosity and attentiveness towards further communication.