Baby Signing

The concept of baby signing was developed in America by two doctors – Linda Acredolo and Susan Goodwyn - in the 1980s. Their research discovered that between the ages of ten and 24 months babies would start to use actions for words before they could talk. For example although they could not say flower, they would sniff as if they were smelling a flower.

From this research the pair came up with the first baby signing system. Their later research found that in families who used baby sign language, babies were less frustrated and also less likely to have tantrums because they could communicate more easily and their needs were met quicker. Baby signing also helped parents and babies to form strong bonds.

The research also found that babies who were taught signing were better talkers at 24 and 36 months and scored better on intelligence tests at the age of eight.

Baby signing is usually done with babies who have not learned to talk yet, but it can be used with toddlers who are learning to talk but may not yet know all the words they need or have trouble pronouncing some words clearly.

Most experts suggest starting baby signing when a child is at least six months old because before this age a baby does not have enough control of their hands to be able to sign clearly.

Most babies will recognize signs made by their parents before they start to make the signs themselves.

If your baby has other carers such as teachers at daycare or other relatives then it is important to get them involved in baby signing too so your baby gets consistent messages no matter who is looking after them.

Most babies learn three or four signs to start with and add more as they become more comfortable with the concept.

You can base sign on your country’s sign language, get a book with standard baby signing suggestions or just make up your own to suit your family. If you do make up your own signs, make sure everyone who looks after your baby understands them correctly.

Try to make the signs logical and easy for your baby to mimic. Start with simple concepts that happen regularly in your baby’s life such as food and sleeping and say the word each time you sign it. Start with just one sign at a time so your baby does not get confused.

Remember that it will take a while for you and your baby to get used to baby signing so do not give up if it does not work straight away. Take it slowly and be prepared to adapt your signs if your baby creates their own sign for an action.