Sign Language has become a popular tool for young infants. Some of the most popular signs are, “more,” “all done,” “milk” and “bath,” which make sense for having a little one. However, as a disability advocate, I’d advise you to take it further. Continue to teach your babies sign language even after their first few words.
Babies are like sponges, and they take in so much at an early age. They’re more likely to remember sign language if you teach them young. It might seem like a lot of work, but it can be important for so many reasons.
Your baby might be nonverbal or having hearing disabilities
Regressions happen, hearing problems are missed, disabilities develop over time. If your child is nonverbal or has a hearing disability, teaching them sign language means they have a way to communicate. Even if your child simply has a delay, it gives them more tools to let you know their needs.
The need might not be as obvious. Your child might have anxiety, or shyness, or simply want to ask you something without a crowd of parents hearing. Sign language is a safe way for you to talk with each other when your voice doesn’t come through.
It increases their reach
Even if your child doesn’t have a reason to use sign language as they get older, teaching it to them helps them be more inclusive individuals. There are deaf children, nonverbal children, and children with disabilities who communicate through this language. By teaching your child American Sign Language, you’re creating a more inclusive community and helping your child make more friends along the way.
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It improves development
Research shows that babies who learn sign language tend to have a better understanding of language than children who don’t. They also are better at communicating their needs.
It can be intimidating to start ASL, especially if you’re new to it. I started by getting the book, My First Book of Baby Signs, and slowly introducing the words to my baby. I also follow deaf creators, both for adult and child content. The adult content is so I can get more immersed in the culture and be reminded to continue ASL for myself, and the child content is so that I can learn developmentally appropriate signs for my baby.
If you want a free resource, you can watch this Ms. Rachel video or this Baby Einstein video as a starting off point to see if ASL is something that works for your family. Remember, even if you and your child don’t become completely fluent in ASL, even learning a few words a month and keeping up with it overtime will make your child a better communicator, make your family more inclusive and help your child convey their needs.
