The Power of Sign Language in Infant Communication

Children, particularly infants, have a hunger to communicate from the moment they are born. My youngest daughter, along with others, has started teaching sign language to her infants early on, allowing them to express needs and desires before they can speak. This practice is becoming increasingly popular among parents and caregivers due to its numerous benefits.

Early Introduction of Sign Language

My youngest daughter began teaching sign language as soon as her children could focus on an object. At just over a year old, our youngest grandchild is a prodigy in the world of sign language. She can ask for food, express yes/no, request bites of food or drink, demand toys, and signal when she needs a diaper change. Her repertoire extends far beyond these basic commands, including terms like 'up', 'down', 'Mamma', 'daddy', 'brother', and much more. Her communication skills using sign language, facial expressions, and gestures are truly remarkable, as are her older siblings.

Benefits of Early Sign Language

Without a means like sign language, parents would often wonder about the reason behind their children's crying. Sign language significantly reduces frustration for both children and parents when the children are not yet able to articulate their needs verbally. Being able to sign helps children communicate effectively with others and pick up concepts earlier than the average child. Additionally, it allows for silent communication, giving the child a head start in learning language. Some of the benefits include:

Earlier Language Development: Visual learning is more natural for infants, making sign language an effective tool for early language acquisition. Frustration Reduction: Sign language reduces the frustration that comes from communication barriers. Increased Confidence: Children who use sign language can express their needs more easily, leading to increased confidence. Head Start in Vocabulary: Learning sign language provides a foundation for later speech development. Facilitates Bonding: It encourages parent-child interaction and strengthens the relationship.

Individual Differences in Learning Sign Language

Not all infants take to sign language as naturally as others. My baby, for example, hasn't taken well to it, but it still helps in relieving some frustration. She knows what is happening to her or where she is going, and she makes an attempt at signs or her own words after crying. It's a good start for a three-month-old.

Conclusion

Teaching sign language to infants is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Each child learns at their own pace, but the benefits are undeniable. From reducing frustration to supporting early language development, sign language can play a significant role in a child's communication journey. Whether you choose American Sign Language (ASL), baby sign language, or a combination of both, the positive impact on your child's communication and relationship with you is well worth the effort.