In a short word, yes! In addition to the many reasons you may already be familiar with, consider these additional two.
Babies learn by cause and effect.1 Babies get hungry, they cry, they get fed. Simple. If parents want to start the language process, this is the perfect time. Begin by signing ‘eat’ when your baby cries when hungry. It goes as easy as this, baby cries, slowly say and sign “eat, eat, eat” (usually done slowly 3 times to help baby focus and begin to understand) then feed your baby. You are helping your baby to identify why their stomach hurts and what happens to make it feel better. They will soon learn signing ‘eat’ gets results and will begin to use that sign on their own. See how Baby Leah starting signing.
Another great cause and effect you can introduce to your baby is during diaper changes. Slowly say and sign “wet, wet, wet”. While putting on the dry diaper, say and sign, “dry, dry, dry.” The use of these words and signs helps baby begin to understand the difference between a wet diaper and a dry one, which will make them more comfortable. (When your baby is old enough to understand, teach them the word and sign for ‘bathroom’. It’s a more dignified way for them to tell you when they need to go, especially when in the community where the traditional “potty” word may gain unwanted attention!)
Just a couple ways you can begin using sign at home.
The other reason you should consider teaching sign language is because during early development, baby’s brain is actively making connections (called synapses) that help them make sense of their environment. What an opportune time for learning. By pairing words with signs to objects, colors, activities, etc., and through repetition and practice, your baby will begin to understand and respond on their own with sign followed by verbal words. You will get a jump start with language development and maybe even improve your baby’s IQ. Babies love to hear their parents’ voices, so learning one-on-one with them is key and interests them the most.1
Reference
1 Buchanan, Carolyn. "Shortcut to Genius?" Scholastic Parent and Child Apr. 2010: 64. Print.
****
Have fun! Teach your baby a new sign today.
Looking for a unique Baby Shower gift? Give the gift of language, see Our Products page.
