Sign language for babies, often referred to as baby sign language, is a method of communication that allows infants to convey their needs and desires before they have developed the ability to speak. This form of communication utilizes modified gestures from American Sign Language (ASL) and has been the subject of various studies examining its developmental benefits and practical applications.
Developmental Benefits of Baby Sign Language
The use of sign language with infants has been associated with several developmental advantages. Research indicates that baby sign language can facilitate early communication, reduce frustration for both infants and caregivers, and may even have positive effects on later language development.
Early Communication and Reduced Frustration
Babies naturally use gestures to communicate before they can speak. By introducing sign language, caregivers provide a structured method for babies to express their needs, which can lead to earlier and clearer communication. This early form of expression can significantly reduce frustration and tantrums caused by the inability to communicate effectively[2][8].
Enhanced Language Development
Contrary to some concerns, evidence suggests that baby sign language does not delay speech development. Instead, it may promote language skills. Studies have shown that children who used sign language as infants often develop a larger spoken vocabulary and may begin speaking at an earlier age compared to their non-signing peers[3][5][17]. This is likely due to the increased engagement in communication practices and the cognitive stimulation provided by learning and using signs.
Cognitive and Emotional Benefits
The cognitive engagement required to learn and use sign language may contribute to higher IQ scores in children who sign. Additionally, the ability to communicate effectively can lead to better emotional regulation and a stronger bond between the child and caregiver, as the child feels understood and the caregiver can more easily meet the child’s needs[3][11].
Examples of Basic Needs Sign Language
Here are 10 examples of basic needs signs that infants can use to communicate effectively:
- Milk: Opening and closing the hand, as if milking a cow, to request feeding[4][14].
- More: Tapping fingertips together to ask for more of something, such as food or playtime[6][11].
- All Done/Finished: Twisting the hands back and forth to indicate completion of an activity or fullness after eating[6][19].
- Eat/Food: Bringing fingertips to the mouth to signal hunger or the desire to eat[4][14].
- Sleep: Hands together and supporting a tilted head to show tiredness or the need for a nap[4][14].
- Diaper: Mimicking the act of changing a diaper to communicate the need for a diaper change[5][20].
- Bath: Simulating the act of bathing to request or indicate readiness for a bath[5].
- Pain: Placing a fist on the chest and twisting it to indicate discomfort or pain[5].
- Hot/Cold: Fanning the face for hot or hugging oneself for cold to express discomfort with temperature[5].
- Help: Placing one hand over the other and lifting to request assistance with a task[11].
Strategies for Teaching and Using Baby Sign Language
Consistency and Repetition
Consistent use of signs during relevant situations helps reinforce the meaning of each gesture. Repetition is key to helping babies learn and remember the signs[3][8].
Engage and Respond
Caregivers should engage with the baby by making eye contact and responding to the baby’s attempts at signing, even if the gestures are not perfectly executed. This positive reinforcement encourages continued use and refinement of sign language[3][11].
Integrate with Speech
Signs should be used in conjunction with spoken words to provide a multimodal learning experience. This approach helps babies make connections between signs and their spoken counterparts, enhancing overall communication skills[3][17].
Start with a Few Signs
Begin with a small set of relevant signs and gradually expand the baby’s repertoire as they become more proficient. This prevents overwhelming the baby and allows for focused learning[11][20].
Use Real-Life Contexts
Introduce signs in the context of daily routines and activities. For example, use the sign for “milk” before feeding or the sign for “sleep” during bedtime routines[4][14].
Conclusion
Baby sign language offers a range of developmental benefits, including early communication, reduced frustration, and potential cognitive and emotional advantages. By teaching infants a set of basic needs signs and employing strategies that encourage learning and use, caregivers can facilitate a smoother and more effective communication process during the preverbal stage of development. The positive impacts of baby sign language on early communication and later language development make it a valuable tool for enhancing the caregiver-infant relationship and supporting the child’s overall growth.
Citations:
[1] https://asl-kids.com/baby-sign-language-basics/
[2] https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/baby_sign_language_a_helpful_communication_tool
[3] https://parenteducate.com/blogs/news/how-to-teach-baby-sign-language
[4] https://www.thebump.com/a/how-to-teach-baby-sign-language
[5] https://www.todaysparent.com/baby/baby-development/baby-sign-language-first-signs/
[6] https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/baby-sign-language/
[7] https://www.thenationalnews.com/lifestyle/family/the-real-baby-talk-hand-signals-1.492354
[8] https://huckleberrycare.com/blog/a-guide-to-baby-sign-language
[9] https://www.handspeak.com/learn/416/
[10] https://illuminatecolorado.org/a-beginners-guide-to-teaching-your-child-baby-sign-language/
[11] https://www.tinyhood.com/expert-articles/learning-and-development/baby-sign-language/baby-sign-language-first-11-signs-to-teach-your-baby
[12] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BeGpPxHdAQ8
[13] https://handtohold.org/teaching-kids-sign-language/
[14] https://babysignlanguage.com/chart/
[15] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7Wd8U1HdDY
[16] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8570554/
[17] https://www.zerotothree.org/resource/supporting-language-and-literacy-skills-from-0-12-months/
[18] https://www.handspeak.com/learn/215/
[19] https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/ss/dh/sb210langmilestones.asp
[20] https://www.gov.nl.ca/education/files/earlychildhood_everyday_i_learn_through_play.pdf
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