12.5 Mth Old Screams When He Wants Something...

Updated on October 13, 2010
A.J. asks from Redlands, CA
5 answers

Okay I need a new approach or maybe I'm doing something wrong this time around? But my 12.5 month old screams, or should I say shrieks when he wants something, which I totally understand, its totally his mode for communicating with me..But we have been trying to do ASL signs with him since he was about 8 months old and he hasn't show any indication that he's "getting it"!

I know you aren't supposed to compare, and each kid is different. But my 2.5 yr old started signing at 12 months and he picked it up all in a week. We didn't start as early with him ( I didn't know about it until he was 12 months) and it was my lifesaver. I barely had any tantrums, we were able to get what he wanted, when he wanted. When he needed help with something, we could help him etc. without any screams or crying?

I don't know if its just the 2nd baby syndrome, maybe I attend to him too quickly and because I have a general idea of what he wants I cave into the screaming? But is there anyway to get him to stop the shrieking/screaming, and offer another tool other than signing? Or is this just it? He has only 2 words "wow" & "mama"? So I know its his way of talking to me, but seems any other sound would be better than a scream?

Anyone successful in getting a 2nd child signing? Or have one never pick it up? I always thought hand signs were easier for the kiddos to pick up over talking...But I'm starting to second guess that at this point. Maybe this is something that he'll just pick up in a few months but what do I do in the meantime? Suggestions?

Thanks

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More Answers

L.A.

answers from Austin on

Purchase lots of ear plugs to help get through your new attitude.

Give your 1 year old the words and learn not to jump when he screams.
Try not to answer unless he signs or attempts to ask.

Choose one request for each scream fit..
"We use inside voices.." Say this in a quiet voice.
"I do not answer to screams."
"Use your signs"
"Use your words"

"I will be back when you stop screaming"

And then do it. Show him you really will not respond to this particular behavior.
He will catch on.. Keep those ear plugs all over the house for easy access..

2 moms found this helpful
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D.B.

answers from Charlotte on

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1 mom found this helpful
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D.S.

answers from Tulsa on

my 2 1/2 yr old either whines or screams. he has been taught sign language and only uses it when its convient its more fun to whine or scream. he does know them and uses them seldom just lazy. he is picking up sign probably just refusing to use it

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A.C.

answers from Cincinnati on

My son NEVER took to signing. Not sure why - he's smart as a whip. Your son probably has his own way of communicating, so doesn't feel the need to use yours. ^_^

V.W.

answers from Jacksonville on

Teach him now or teach him later. Your choice mom.
He needs to know that you won't cave to that method of 'communication'. He surely could figure out another way with a little help from you. You've been showing him the ASL... Perhaps you could teach him the signs for "use your words" and then do those signs when he yells at you.

He needs to understand that yelling does NOT get him what he wants. If you know what he wants before he screams, and want to handle it, then do. But if he screams before you do whatever it is, you need to not do what it is... walk away. Tell him that you don't understand screaming and you'll be back when he can quiet down. Obviously, he doesn't have the vocabulary (verbal or sign) to communicate everything he might be trying to... so do what every mommy does... ask him questions. Surely he knows how to nod yes or no.
He sees you put his drink on the counter and starts screaming. You turn to him and say "Mommy can't understand screaming. Do you want me to get something for you? Do you want your drink? " When he nods or says "yes" then sign "please" for him... and have him copy you. Then when you hand him the drink you can show him "thank you".

Don't make it into a battle, but give him the words/signs AS HE NEEDS THEM. Practice makes perfect. :)

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