Baby Sign Language: The Key to Early Communication

By Jessica Gordon

Wouldn’t it be nice if you knew what your baby was thinking? There would be no need for tears or tantrums—your baby could just tell you he needs his diaper changed or he wants his blanky. If you think it’s too good to be true, think again.

With baby sign language, babies can communicate their needs long before they can speak. Experts recommend beginning to teach it at about six months, or when your baby is able to focus on your hands for 7-10 seconds. Pick a few words (like more, please, thank you, eat, drink), then make the appropriate sign every time you say each one (for videos of signs, visit: http://commtechlab.msu.edu/ sites/aslweb/browser.htm). If you’re consistent, your baby will soon learn that squeezing a fist means milk and wringing your hands means wet diaper. Be patient, and your baby should be signing back to you at eight or nine months old.

Improved communication between you and your little one may even mean you’ll be able to escape the “terrible twos” all together. And for many parents, that’s a dream come true!