We are excited to share with you this post written by Mey Lau the Project Director for Baby Sign Language
After you read this article we encourage you to check out the Baby Sign Language website which is a fabulous resource for everything you need to know to get started with Baby Sign Language.
Baby Sign Language – bonding babies and Nannies by Mey Lau
There are some babbles and squeals only a mom can interpret. So for everyone else, there is baby sign language! This small collection of gestures is simple to learn – especially with the free resources on babysignlanguage.com – and it is perhaps most appreciated by the caregivers, family and friends that may not be the best at reading baby’s mind.
When baby learns to sign his way to a diaper change, bottle or toy it eliminates the need for the other communication paths like crying, kicking and screaming. Especially when you’re keeping more than one child, a few well chosen signs can help keep the day running smoothly.
From baby sign language flashcards to a video dictionary, all the resources you need to get started are online and free; there is even a community of signers ready to support you and lend advice. All you need are your hands and a willingness to have fun with a new language.
BSL (Baby Sign Language) knowledge is becoming more and more sought after by signing parents who are seeking a nanny who will reinforce the lessons they are teaching to their little ones. But it doesn’t have to be a resume builder, even a seasoned nanny who may not feel any communication frustrations can encourage sign language as a means of building baby’s independence. Baby sign language leads to earlier verbalization, a broader vocabulary and strengthens fine motor skills just to name a few of the benefits that studies have shown.
But most importantly, it’s fun for both baby and caregiver! You’ll be encouraging baby’s development and creating a bond. And it is less ‘work’ than you many think. You don’t have to master every sign; most parents and caregivers learn right alongside their baby. Once a couple of sign are mastered, you’ll be ready to learn (and teach) a new one, and another and another… and before long you’ll be taking field trips to point out all the new signs in the world around us from airplanes to rainbows.
Such a great article. I have been using baby sign language for almost twelve years. It has helped my former charges communicate much early than most babies. Instead of crying they would sign milk for a bottle. I taught my son, who is now almost four sign language too. Right after he turned one we went for a walk to a park and on the way home he was “telling” me about his day. He signed to me that we walked to the park and he went on the swing and slide. Then he signed to me that he saw and heard a airplane and it made him happy, then he signed walk home and milk. Such a great way to “talk” with your child. My son could tell me he hurt and he was mad, sad, or scared using his signs. I love love baby sign language and think everyone should learn at least milk, more and all done for their children. Such a great way to communicate with them.
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