A guide to Baby Sign Language

Baby sign language involves using gestures to communicate with babies before they can speak fluently. There is not one universal group of gestures or signs that are used with babies, but most “baby signs” are based on Makaton (key word signing), British Sign Language (BSL) or American Sign Language (ASL). These signs are often modified to suit a baby's motor skills and understanding and are used alongside speech.

Many parents feel unsure about whether to teach sign language to their baby. One common question parents ask is whether teaching baby sign language will impede their child's speech development. Research suggests otherwise. In fact, studies have shown that babies who learn sign language tend to develop spoken language skills at a similar rate to their peers and may even exhibit enhanced communication skills. Using baby sign language can help get your child’s attention and support their understanding as well as giving them a way of expressing themselves. Baby sign language can complement spoken language rather than replace it, providing an additional means of expression for your little one, which can be a great way for reducing frustration for both babies and parents! However, using baby sign language is just one way of supporting communication development and is not necessary for all children, so the decision whether to sign or not is personal to each family.