The best motto for sign language is: KISS keep it simple (silly). Begin your journey into baby sign language by purchasing a book on baby sign language or finding words on the internet by typing baby sign language' into your search engine.

Begin early to repeat the word and the sign, making sure the sign is associated not only with the word, but also with the concept they are learning to sign. For example, when feeding your baby, use the sign 'eat' by putting your fingers to the mouth as if you are putting a French fry or carrot into your mouth. Say 'eat,' do the sign and give the child a bite, while repeating the sign again. Soon your child will catch on and begin imitating you. It is very important to associate the word with its meaning as you teach the sign to your baby.

Begin with one or two words such as eat and sleep. When your child begins to master these signs s/he will be ready to expand his/her vocabulary. Pick signs that go with things your baby does or needs to communicate to you. For example, knowing how to say pain can help a child tell you when they hurt. Combining the sign 'pain' (touching the tips of the index fingers in front of the body) with pointing to where it hurts can give the child the 'language' to express when s/he needs help.

As your child grows, continue to add signs. Choose a sign in your child's every day life (clothes, socks, shoes, table, door ...) or things your child does or is interested in (mirrors, walk, ride in the car ...). By teaching yourself and your child (his/her siblings and other family members) sign, you can broaden his/her world in many ways. Children who know sign have higher literacy rates and better communication skills.

Baby/Toddler/Child Sign Language also allows your child to tell you if something is wrong, even from across the room or the park. You can have a special sign that tell you the child needs you (picked on at the park, sees a stranger lurking....) Your child will also have the ability to talk to deaf children or interpret for them if you continue your lessons as the child grows.

As you teach your child sign language, s/he will understand the sign before s/he can actually do it. S/he will soon want to learn so many signs you may not be able to keep up. Communication allows the child to get the things s/he wants and so motivates them to want to learn more and more signs. Developmentally, make sure your child doesn't use sign as an excuse not to ask for what s/he wants once s/he is able to do so. But, have fun. Make this a special game between you and you will soon be amazed at what s/he can do and what you can do. Broaden your child's world when it's appropriate by introducing him/her to people who can only communicate with sign. You will both be better off because if it.

Learn more about this author, Angela S. Young.
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