Baby Sign Language Research

Improvisation Welcomed

However, you might be surprised to learn that you do not have to follow a set instructional program in order to see improvement in your child's communication skills. The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists states that parents can begin by using simple, easy-to-understand signs and progress from there. It is interesting to note that both non-hearing and hearing infants can benefit from the use of sign language.

A Natural Phenomenon

Using sign language with young children is also a natural phenomenon. Parents have a tendency to point to objects to see if their child is interested in handling the objects. Such visual means of communication can be a wonderful bonding ritual for parents and children. Using American Sign Language with children can be seen as a natural outgrowth of this technique. Children with conditions other than deafness — such as children with Down's Syndrome — may particularly benefit from the use of sign language too.

Talking Encouraged

Also, it should be noted that a number of language experts recommend that parents use spoken words while using sign language with their children. In other words, sign language should not be used exclusively, in order to ensure the best communication possible.

While it may never be too early to sign, baby sign language research and educators recommend beginning sign language at the age of six months. By that time, an infant should be ready to appreciate sign language and to mimic his or her parent's gestures. However, it may be unrealistic to expect your child to pick up on sign language right away. It may take months for your baby to master the fundamentals of sign language, even if you use it on a daily basis.

Baby sign language research has taught us a great deal about an infant's ability to communicate. It is clear that ASL can enable very young children to communicate their thoughts clearly to their parents and caregivers.

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