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Signing with your baby: What is involved?
July 28, 2005 12:15 PM EST | Child Development | Email to Friend
Some parents may be hesitant to begin signing with their baby even after hearing all of the wonderful benefits that come from signing with your baby. After all, sign language takes years to learn, doesn't it?
Not at all! Learning to sign with your baby is as easy as reading a recipe.
Teaching sign language isn't a time-consuming chore. Rather, it can be worked into your life as a natural part of communication with your child as well as the rest of your family. Think of it as an extension of speech, and you talk to your baby every day.
You can start as early as six months of age. Remember, though, that babies can take weeks or even months before making their first sign.
No prior knowledge of sign language is required. Many parents learn right along with their children, and it is even possible to make up signs that make sense to you and your baby, rather than worrying about finding and using the "correct" sign.
There are many resources available through the internet as well as your local library. There are also books available that deal specifically with this topic.
Simply choose a sign to begin with and use it when you have your baby's complete attention. For example, use the sign for "milk" before nursing or giving a bottle. Use it consistently, and soon your baby will begin to imitate you.
Most importantly, have fun! Encourage others to join in. Make it a family affair. Make it a game, rather than a burden.
Remember these helpful hints and soon you will be a pro at signing.
Monica Beyer is the mother of two sons and has been signing with her younger son for over 1 year. Visit her website at http://www.signingbaby.com or email her at monica@signingbaby.com
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