Every baby learns differently as far as timing, learning style and preferences. Some of us start with basics like the sign for milk, more, mommy and daddy. But for some the list of starter signs is customized based on the child’s personal preferences and interests. I have met wee ones whose only passion is to learn every possible sign for all the animals in the zoo. I have also encountered food-driven toddlers whose fascination with crackers and cheese is something to behold; their persistence in getting their way through signing is certainly worthy of admiration.
Not long ago I received a call from a sweet friend of mine whose gift is gentle and intentional motherhood. Marla has a way about her that makes people both curious and envious. Her babies are always the cleanest, most fashionable and best behaved children in the room. When Marla’s youngest was born I rushed to give her a Premium Baby Sign Language Kit. I knew in my heart she was going to make good use of it. She is after a super mom of sorts. Marla’s call, like everything she does was all about her wee ones. Marla had a story to tell me; and boy was the story good! So good, I asked Marla to write it down in her own words.
Hi There!
Up until Charlie was born I used the printable resources on your website to teach my kiddos how to sign. We mostly used signs related to food and sleep. When you gave us the signing kit for Charlie’s baby sprinkle we became hooked on The Baby Signing Time DVDs. My toddler and preschooler asked for us to watch the DVDs time after time. I started signing with Charlie from the moment he was born. His sister and brother would further reinforce the signs making it extra easy for Charlie to learn ( I guess that is one of the perks of being the youngest!). Charlie signed milk and more just a few days after his half birthday. By the time Charlie had his 1st birthday he had great curiosity for things like fans, lights, cars and keys. Keys in particular made him ultra happy. He liked real keys and absolutely loved his colorful teething ring. And keys are the reason I had to share this story with you.
Last week Maddie fell while playing outside. She was bleeding profusely and needed stitches. Going to urgent care with three under five in two is not a laughing matter, and having one in tears multiplies the stress level felt by all. As I tried to get everyone together so we could head to urgent care I realized my keys were missing. Unfortunately, I only have one set. I searched high and low for my keys and felt utterly hopeless. As I walked around looking in drawers and shelves I must have muttered the word keys. I know I did because Charlie began signing “keys”, walked toward the sectional stuck his little hand between the cushions and triumphantly handed me the keys!!
I know my story is simple and silly and speaks to the fact that this mama does not have her act together. I also know that seeing Charlie sign as he literally saved the day totally made my heart smile. I hope it makes your heart smile too.
Marl
Ready to begin your own baby sign language journey? Can’t wait to hear your stories. You can send your baby sign language stories to [email protected]
The Standard Baby Sign Language Kit, bundles together everything you need to get started with signing in one box, at a steep discount. The kit includes: (1) Baby Sign Language Guide Book; (2) Baby Sign Language Dictionary: (3) Baby Sign Language Flash Cards; and (4) Baby Sign Language Wall Chart.
Baby Sign Language Guide Book shows you how to teach your child how to sign. The book begins with a Quick Start Guide that will teach you your first signs and having you ready to sign in 30 minutes. As your baby progresses, you can delve into more advanced topics like combining signs to make phrases, using props, and transitioning to speech. (Regularly $19.95)
Baby Sign Language Dictionary contains over 600 signs including the most common words, the alphabet and numbers. The dictionary helps you expand your child’s vocabulary, and has the breadth of coverage that lets you follow any child’s natural interests. Each sign is illustrated with two or more diagrams, showing you the starting position, the ending position, and intermediate motion. This makes learning new signs easy. (Regularly $19.95)
Baby Sign Language Flash Cards include 52 sturdy board (4×6 inches) flash cards, covering a variety of basic signs. The flash cards allow you to teach words, such as animal names, that Baby is not exposed to in everyday life. The face of the flash cards shows the word and image for the child. The back of the flash cards show how the sign is performed, a handy reminder for the adult. (Regularly $24.95)
Baby Sign Language Wall Chart includes 22 basic signs, and makes a handy reminder for caregivers. The Baby Sign Language Wall Chart covers basic signs, like eat, drink, and sleep. Hang the poster in Baby’s Nursery to help babysitters, or other occasional caregivers learn and decode the most commonly used baby signs. (Regularly $9.95)
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Baby Sign Language Guide Book
Learn the best techniques for effectively teaching baby sign language. Including:
• Quick Start Guide – learn the first 10 signs and the basic principles required to start teaching your baby to sign (Chapter 1).
• Advanced Teaching Methods – use teaching aids like books, flash cards, and toys to keep lessons interesting and challenging (Chapter 5).
• Phrases – teach your baby to combine signs and communicate more complex thoughts (Chapter 6).
• Taming the Terrible Twos – reduce frustration and tantrums by enabling your toddler to communicate (Chapter 7).
• Transitioning to Speech – use sign language to expedite and improve speech development (Chapter 8).
Sarah learned her first 10 signs at six month and it made our lives much easier. Instead of screaming, she could tell us when she was hungry, thirsty, or tired. She learned another 50 signs by nine months and that was a blast. Now she is talking much earlier than the other children in her preschool and we think it is because of her signing.
We can’t imagine missing out on all the little things she shared with baby sign language. Thank You!
