Signs for Drinking Containers
Whether from the bottle or the cup, babies love to drink. While some parents prefer to use signs for specific drinks such as milk, juice, or water, others find it easier to use signs for the containers. It is simply a matter of preference and practicality. For example, if your baby is particular about what she drinks, labeling each individual beverage might make more sense. That will allow her to specifically request milk or juice or water. However, if your baby is willing to drink just about anything you give her, it may be unnecessary for you to introduce her to any signs other than CUP and/or BOTTLE.
CUPIf you and your baby have already learned the sign for DRINK, the sign for CUP, as shown in Figure 11–5, will be easy.
FIGURE 11–5
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1. With one hand, form the letter C.
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2. Rest it in the open palm of your opposite hand.
This similarity between the signs means that you could allow your baby to use the signs interchangeably if you wish. After all, a baby who is signing for a cup is obviously requesting something to drink. With that in mind, you might find it unnecessary to use both signs with your child and instead may find it better to focus on only one.
E-QUESTION
Is there a separate sign for SIPPY CUP?
Not exactly. CUP is generally used to refer to any small drinking container. Some parents may choose to sign SIP and then CUP to differentiate, but it is unnecessary to do so.
Here is a simple way to expand your signing vocabulary, at least by one word. With just one step, you can transform the sign for CUP into the sign for GLASS. As with CUP, make the “C” hand shape and rest it in your palm. Then raise your C hand up to indicate a tall cup. Of course, you probably will not need the sign for GLASS as most babies and toddlers only drink from child-size cups.
BOTTLEThe sign for BOTTLE (Figure 11–6) is simple to form. Simply pretend your hand is a bottle and your thumb the nipple.
FIGURE 11–6
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1. Form a fist and extend your thumb upward (like the A hand shape).
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2. Bring your thumb to your mouth, simulating the sucking of a bottle.
Because a baby who is still drinking out of a bottle is usually drinking milk or formula, you might want to use the sign for MILK in lieu of the sign for BOTTLE. The exception to this is if you are breastfeeding. In that case, sign MILK while nursing and BOTTLE for supplemental feedings of juice or formula.
