Infants can talk through sign language

Between the ages of 9 and 30 months, a baby’s desire to talk usually exceeds his ability to speak. Multiple research since the 1990s shows that infants can talk through sign language before they actually begin to speak.

Communication is not the only benefit to learning sign language with your baby. Sign language actually increases a baby’s ability to learn to speak as it provides intellectual stimulation. And, sign language greatly strengthens the bond between the baby and his parents as they teach signing.

So where do you begin?
Infants and toddlers will learn signs faster if they are first taught words that are meaningful to them. Pick a couple of words that you use frequently throughout the day. For example, your child may already know to wave to say “hello” or “goodbye.”

Teach the sign for “yes” and “no”
The sign for “yes” will make sense to children. The fist is closed with the thumb on the outside, then nods up and down, just like a nodding head. “No” is not quite as easy. The index and middle fingers tap the thumb (like a bird’s beak opens and closes).

Remember, your child’s signs may look slightly different. I often see children and parents who sign, using a variation of the proper American Sign Language sign. It’s serving the same purpose, so don't get caught up in perfection!

Learn through play
Just as in Kindermusik, children learn through play. Ask silly questions and sign “yes” or “no.” For example: Are you a kitty cat? Do you want to eat some mud? Do you live in a tree?

What is the baby in the green shirt (above) signing? Dad. Use the same motion, but touch your thumb to your chin to say "mom."

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