Sign language boosts baby’s confidence

YOUR little one may be a born communicator, but sometimes it is hard to understand when they are trying to say something.

This occurs, especially, in the first and second year, when communication and comprehension gaps between a baby and a parent, who struggles to understand, can be huge. Experts say a baby will likely develop the skills to utter their first words around 8 to 12 months of age. Until then, baby sign language can be a helpful tool.

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This tool allows kids to express their needs before they know how to use words.

Experts further state that it also boosts a baby’s confidence as a communicator which motivates them to keep communicating first through signs, a mix of signs and sounds and ultimately words.

Lee Ann Steyns, owner of Signing Babies, who teaches baby sign language, said using this tool before a baby speaks eases their frustration and increases confidence that parents will listen and respond.

“Learning sign language can give parents a confidence boost, too, especially first-time mothers and fathers,” said Steyns.

Research suggests that by giving babies an early method of communication, sign language can stimulate their desire to learn more communication techniques, including talking. Baby sign language gives them an effective way to engage with those around them, so they get even more out of social experiences.

Also, signing with babies enables parents to spend more time with them which is the best way to help the young ones learn to speak.

Steyns said around six to eight months old is the right time to start teaching the little one how to sign.

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She said this developmental stage is when babies are curious to communicate and pay more attention to things presented to them.

But she recommended that parents measure their own readiness, along with their baby’s, because signing requires learning on their part and committing to a lot of repetition of the hand signs.

Recommended signs to teach baby:

• Sleep: Hands together and supporting a titled head
• Hungry: A rubbed belly
• Eat/food: Tapping the tips of fingers to mouth with palm face down and thumb touching fingers
• Milk: Squeeze fingers in and out
• Drink: A cupped hand placed to the mouth
• Mommy: Tap your thumb to your chin (open palm, fingers facing up)
• Daddy: Tap your thumb to your forehead (open palm, fingers facing up)

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