One of the most common questions we receive on our inbox relates to the time investment associated with teaching your baby how to sign. Working moms, moms of multiples, single moms and first time moms who are new to signing are intimidated by the idea that teaching a baby to sign may just not work for them given their busy schedule. If you are among one of these groups we have good news for you: Baby sign language is super easy to teach and requires minimal dedicated time. Let’s take a look at the most efficient ways to incorporate baby signing into your everyday routines:
Start Learning Early and Make it a Natural Tool for Communication
The best time to become familiar with baby sign language by learning the basics is before your baby is born. Make baby sign language an integral part of nesting and getting ready for your little one. Take advantage of bedrest to read and learn the best advanced teaching techniques and memorize the most popular starter baby signs. If you already have a baby or several little ones use your quiet time to read the Baby Sign Language Teaching Guide or fast track by engaging with our Facebook community and asking other moms their best baby sign language tips and tricks.
Teach Baby Signs Contextually
The best time-saver when it comes to teaching baby sign language is to teach it in context. When baby is eating teach him or her food signs. When changing the diaper introduce baby to signs like poop, potty & diaper. In addition to saving time your baby will be better able to make the connection between a sign and a concept when you do it contextually and reinforce it with verbal interaction.
Enlist Family & Friends
This is particularly important for families who happen to be busy because of family size. One of the best sources of learning is sibling imitation. Make signing a game by engaging the whole family. By sharing you are making it easier on you and reinforcing communication skills with every single family member.
Don’t Waste Your Time Comparing
The main goal of baby sign language is to equip your pre-verbal child with what he or she needs to communicate their basic needs to you and other caregivers. To do this it is generally enough if your baby learns a few key signs. Babies progress differently and have different needs at different stages of their development. Celebrate your milestones without wasting time feeling behind because other babies can sign every shape, color and animal there is.
Hold Intensive Learning Sessions as Time Permits
If you have a set of baby sign language cards, consider having intensive learning sessions with your baby. This is a very unique way to engage with your baby in a way that facilitates bonding. Many working parents find that 20 minutes of flash card activities provides much needed one on one time with baby and provides opportunities to praise their achievements thus helping their self esteem.
