One of the most important tools we can give to our children is the ability to communicate their needs and wants effectively and in a socially appropriate way. By introducing our babies to signed communication we give them a tremendous headstart when it comes to fully understanding how language empowers us.
If you are the parent of a newborn, baby or toddler and you are trying to figure out how to get started with baby sign language and you are struggling with selecting your first words keep reminding yourself that the words you teach baby will be the ones baby will have available to use when you ask him to “use his words”. With this in mind consider working first on their top ten starter signs to set a strong foundation and set the stage for the learning of new signs.
Once your baby has mastered their first ten signs ask yourself the following questions:
What is our environmental context?
Pick your signs around the the things that surround you. If you live in a two-story home learning the word for stairs becomes more relevant to the daily needs of your child. If home is by the ocean you may want to include signs such as sand, fish, dolphin, etc.
What are your baby’s interests?
Early on your baby will show interests, some babies love fans, others love vacuum cleaners or rattles. Pay attention to the objects of their affection and consider prioritizing those signs to ease communication.
What are my baby’s specific needs?
If you have a little one with different needs you want to take into account their needs when picking and prioritizing their baby signs. If a baby is spending significant time at the hospital consider including a few relevant signs such as doctor or ache.
What are your baby’s tastes?
Observe your baby’s food preferences and begin incorporating signs that equip your little ones to ask for what they would prefer to eat. In doing this do keep in mind that it is up to you the parent to give baby a balanced nutrition.
Picking up new signs that make sense to your baby is a cornerstone of communication which will later become the basis for effective verbal communication that reduces meltdowns and meets the child at their point of need. Be intentional and consistent in teaching him and don’t forget to have fun!
