We’ve been teaching our 13-month old daughter Alana to sign for about three months now and things are going great!

If you haven’t already heard about the awesomeness of Baby Sign Language, chances are you’re living under a rock. Folks, get out from under that rock and get on board. The BSL Express is on a roll. All aboard!

What is Baby Sign Language?

Basically, BSL is a series of easy-to-learn hand shapes and motions that you and your baby use to in order to convey words and meaning with one another. Baby Sign Language is not reserved for the non-hearing. It’s a great way for babies to communicate their desires and emotions, despite their inability to speak. If that’s not cool then I don’t know what is.

Benefits of Baby Sign Language

According to Babies and Sign Language, the biggest benefit of BSL is baby’s ability to express her thoughts and needs. Additional benefits include:

• Increases the speed with which verbal language is developed
• An increase in vocabulary
• Reduces frustration and outbursts in relation to baby’s inability to verbally express needs
• Increased confidence and self-esteem

Although she only knows a few signs, we’ve definitely noticed a boost in Alana’s confidence. She’s able to communicate her needs and emotions and in turn, we’re able to acknowledge and respond in an appropriate manner. For instance when Alana is hungry or in need of comfort and wants to nurse, she’ll come over to me and sign “milk”. As a matter of practice, I respond in turn by saying “Oh, you want milk” while signing the word ”milk” back to her. Her response? Joy.

When and How Should You Teach Your Child BSL?

According to Baby Sign Language experts, you can start signing to your child as early as 6 months of age. A good rule of thumb is to start once you’re able to hold and maintain baby’s eye contact for 7-10 second intervals as she’ll need to focus on your hand movements. Waving hello and goodbye are also great indicators of a baby’s readiness to learn BSL.

Teaching your child to sign is simple and fun:

• When you have your child’s attention, say the word while signing it.
• The key is to sign consistently and often, making it part of your daily routine.
• If possible, make a connection between the word and object. (For instance, if you’re teaching the word “toy” it’s a good idea to show baby a toy while signing it.)
• It might be a good idea to teach the signs for basic needs first – i.e. ”milk”, “eat”, “more”.

Babies and Sign Language is a great BSL resource that offers tips, advice and a free signing chart as well. They’ve been an invaluable asset to us.

How Soon Will My Baby Begin Signing?

Most babies begin signing somewhere between 6 to 9 months, but it really depends on your child.

It’s important to pay close attention to your baby’s hand movements in the beginning. Keep in mind that her first few attempts at signing won’t be very coordinated or resemble your hand gestures at all. That’s to be expected.

When your little one begins to sign, be sure to mirror her signing while repeating the word out loud. Praise and encourage her. Remember, she’s just an infant and signing takes time.

Have fun with it. We do!

*I’d love to hear about your personal experience with Baby Sign Language. How has it helped you in communicating more effectively with your child? Any tips or fantastic resources you’d love to share? I’m all ears!

I’ll post periodic updates on our Baby Sign Language journey as Alana’s BSL vocabulary grows, including personal videos and Baby Sign Language resources. Don’t miss out on the BSL fun. Get your Live and Love…Out Loud subscription today!