Has anyone taught their child baby sign language? Was it successful/helpful and if so, what is the best age to start? Are there any baby sign language classes in the Memphis area that are recommended?
Thanks
I would recommend the Baby Einstein Sign Language DVD. It only focuses on the things your child uses every day or does everyday. So, it would be helpful in relating to normal everyday life. Not only that, my 14th month old finds it very interesting to watch as well. But it will help you learn the signs to teach your child. Good luck!
Hi J.,
I'd think twice before you teach your baby sign language. My cousin and his wife did that with their son (who is now almost 3) and it took him a lot longer to start talking. His thinking was that he could sign to communicate so why talk? He just started talking a few months ago and he doesn't ever say much. He still signs. My cousin won't give him what he wants unless he says it which has become a huge struggle. My cousin and his wife said that they would have never taught him sign language if they knew this would happen. I would strongly advise against it unless your child has a hearing problem.
Good luck to you!
Start as soon as you can. I signed with all four of my kids. Some only had "please, thank you, milk & more" but some did more signs, like animals. I can't remember anyone signing back to me before a year old, but they'll recognize the signs that I'm signing to them. I don't know of any classes, but there's a program on PBS at 11a on Sunday mornings called "Signing Time" that I think is wonderful. There's also a Mom's Day Out/Daycare program called Special Kids that teaches signs as part of their curriculum.
Actually, it has been proven that sign language can improve a child's verbal skills. The key is to reinforce the spoken word each time you demonstrate a sign. My son is 16 months old and knows approximately 25 signs and can say 20 words. Signing has not delayed his speech at all -- on the contrary, it has enhanced it. All of that being said, my recommendation is to find a class or a baby sign language book that uses American Sign Language signs. You do not have to take a class to teach your child to sign. It is amazingly simple to do. You just need to know a few signs yourself. Other than that, all you need is patience and consistency. Good luck!
