Using sign language to communicate with babies — it seems like everybody’s doing it. Okay, maybe not everybody, but certainly many people are doing it, and their numbers seem to increase with each passing year. A few years ago, you might have encountered an occasional hearing mom on the playground signing with her hearing baby. Such a mom (or dad) typically would have been thought of as an overachiever trying to raise a super-baby. Today, however, parents by the thousands are discovering the immense benefits of signing with their babies, and they are learning that a signing baby is not the same as a super-baby. It is no longer uncommon to see young children signing with their parents, their siblings, and even with their caregivers in daycare settings. In fact, because of the increased prevalence of baby sign, babies are now signing with each other.
So what prompted this sudden popularity of baby sign language? Is it a trendy fad that will lose steam over the next few years? Signing parents will assure you that this is not the case. Instead, it is a major advancement in the field of baby communication. Baby sign language opens up a whole new world of communication between a baby and the adults around her. It allows parents to gain early insight into the way her mind works, and it bridges the communication gap that exists during her preverbal months. Something this powerful is unlikely to go away. Instead, it seems likely that more and more parents will get onboard the baby-signing train and that it will eventually become a widespread and common practice.
Signing is a beautiful way to communicate with your child. It is fun and educational, and it is an excellent way to spend quality time together. In addition to the communication advantages it provides, signing can also contribute to a child’s academic prowess, as well as to her self-esteem. Best of all, it is an activity in which the whole family can participate.
If you are reading this book, you are undoubtedly interested in learning how to sign with your baby. You may know a lot or a little about the subject. You may wonder how it is done or where to begin. You may be familiar with sign language, or you may be a complete novice. You may still be skeptical that baby sign is even possible. The good news is that this book will address every one of these scenarios and more. You will learn how baby sign language works, why it works, and how to use it with your baby.
This book and DVD set will also show you how to make almost 200 signs. On the DVD, you will find a demonstration of each and every sign. An explanation of each sign is also included in the book. Dispersed throughout the book, you will also find photographs depicting the simpler signs that do not need in-depth illustration.
Congratulations on making the choice to sign! It is a beautiful gift to give to your child and to yourself. As you set out on your signing journey, prepare to be amazed by the things your baby wants to tell you, and prepare to watch her personality shine through in ways you have not yet imagined. Successful signing takes time and patience, but it is worth the wait.