Baby Signing Basics

The Immediate and Lasting Benefits of Teaching Baby Sign Language

By Melinda Copp

Using signs can also smooth transitions for children, so they don't become frustrated when it's time to go home or get changed and they have to stop what they're doing, which can be difficult for babies.

"Transitioning from one activity to another is a great time to sign," Cadjan says. "When you need to interrupt their play, signing lets them know what's going to happen next."

Drs. Acredolo and Goodwyn have even found that signing can help little ones potty train. "The American Academy of Pediatrics advises parents to start potty training when their child can detect when they need to go and tell the parent," Dr. Acredolo says. "Signing allows them to communicate that they have to go before they can actually say it."

Perhaps the most wonderful benefit of signing with your baby is that it lets you know what that little person thinks about the world.

Even though new parents never need one more thing to do, starting small and incorporating baby signs into your regular routines has enormous benefits for both you and Baby.

"Signing with your baby isn't time intensive or labor intensive, and even if you only do 10 signs, your life will be easier than if you don't do any," Cadjan says. "It's functional, it reduces stress and it gives you a window into your child's mind – that's the real joy."

Want to see more?

• Baby Signs: A Conversation Creating Lasting Bonds
• Got Sign? 10 Tips to Help Teach Your Baby Sign Language
• Building Bridges to a Verbal World: Using Sign Language to Help Children with Impaired Language
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