Simply put, sign language occurs when individuals communicate successfully using their hands instead of sound. Manually transmitted signals and patterns are meant to convey the message without using acoustics. The nuances in the meanings of the words are specified with hand shapes, orientation and movement. Signals are used instinctively in combination with body language and facial expressions.
It is said that wherever there exists a deaf community, sign language will develop, but even the most oral of societies develop their own conventional signs. The misconception that signed language is limited to deaf communities has dissipated remarkably over the last decade.
Another myth is that babies who learn sign language will struggle with learning oral language. It’s not uncommon, even today, to hear parents say they feel too old to learn a new language, or that it is a fad or a trend with no real benefit. In reality, there are many intellectual and emotional benefits for babies, parents and caregivers learning sign language, making it an increasingly popular tool in parenting.
The Benefits of Sign Language for Babies
Interestingly, the fear that babies who use sign language will have difficulties learning to speak contrasts with findings that it facilitates speech development. In addition to improving hand-eye coordination, it increases vocabulary, promotes early literacy and early use of complex sentences. The introduction of sign language to infants also leads to early interest in books, better reading skills as they get older and even better performance in school as they grow up.
Learning to communicate with hand signals makes it easier for children to learn two or more spoken languages. For example, if a baby learns the sign for “milk” she will invariably know what you are referring to if you show her the sign while saying "milk" or "lait", because the sign serves as a point of reference and provides a solid link between the idea and the object. Learning any language beyond our mother tongue is enriching and provides a wider spectrum of expression. Recent research by a Canadian scientist team has shown that the acquisition of a second language helps preserve cognitive functions and even delay the onset of symptoms of dementia. The ability to communicate in more languages then one is also a valuable asset in the business world.
Infants, babies and toddlers who can use sign language also benefit emotionally, even displaying fewer incidents of unwanted habits such as biting. For an infant, confidence is developed through successful interaction with his environment, it is empowering and boosts confidence and self-esteem to be understood by those around them. Babies who communicate successfully at an early age develop stronger social skills and cry less. This is a benefit for the parent, but more importantly it means the baby isn’t as sad, angry or frustrated, leaving him more relaxed and less vulnerable to the negative physiological and psychological effects of stress. Not to be overlooked, the main reason why babies are such great pupils when it comes to signing is that it’s plain fun for them. They will treat it as a game they intend to master, and delight at seeing you bring them milk at their request.
It’s important, and rewarding, to schedule quality time learning and having fun together with your child and to assume an active role in his education. Many parents enjoy being able to discipline their child in public by using signs the child understands instead of raising their voice, or to communicate clearly in any scenario where hearing is compromised. Topping the list of benefits for parents is the ability to understand their child. For most parents, any insight into what baby wants or needs is priceless. For daycare centers, preschools or in general group settings, it can help lower noise levels. Children with special needs who already use sign language also benefit when healthy children in their environments have the ability to communicate with them.
Where do I start using sign language with my baby?
It’s best to introduce sign language to babies within the ages of 6 and 9 months. The ideal method is for the parent to learn signs and then teach them to the baby. A child is more apt to learn while basking in a parent's loving attention and praise than while looking at a stranger on a screen. Start with words that describe baby’s favorite family members, food items, pets, toys and activities. Teach him the sign while showing him the object. Teach the alphabet and numbers to toddlers, and soon they will spell out words.
A wide variety of tools such as instructional videos can be found online to help you learn more about sign language, and most are provided free of charge. Parents and caregivers can also check with their local libraries for resources in the audio-video sections, and some communities may offer classes.
Sources:
Crais, Elizabeth R., Watson, Linda R. and Baranek, Grace T. "Use of Gesture Development in Profiling Children's Prelinguistic Communication Skills." American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology. Vol.18 95-108 February 2009.
Physorg.com. "Bilingualism Delays Onset of Alzheimer's Symptoms" November 8, 2010 (accessed December 8, 2010).
Sylvie Roy - Writing has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. I studied Multidisciplinary Arts, where I dabbled in journalism, english ...
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