“If I teach my child signs, will they still talk?”. Probably the first question on all parent’s minds if sign language is suggested, whether a friend or relative mentions teaching their baby signs early on, or an early intervention therapist. Parents want to know what’s the deal with baby signs? As an early intervention speech therapist, I have always used sign language as a part of therapy sessions. Research has shown that pairing a gesture(such as a sign)with the word provides the child an alternative way to communicate wants/needs. As long as the child can hear, they will imitate the word along with the sign in time. For some children, sounds and words can be challenging. There are a variety of reasons this can be the case. Using sign language is a way to bridge the gap until they are confident to imitate the word.
We all communicate with gestures sometimes. Babies begin to imitate actions and gestures before they imitate words. If imitating a sign(or gesture) can help them communicate their wants/needs before intense frustration sets in, we should provide them that alternative. Once they are comfortable using the word, they will, and the sign will disappear on its own. I began modeling signs with my own child around the time he began to really use his voice. That lovely stage babies go through around 8-10 months that they are screaming all the time😉 When they are excited, upset, or just impatient. Fun times, haha. We started with “eat”, “more”, and “all done”. Mostly because he was extremely impatient as I prepared his food and when was done with the meal(mostly just done sitting for it). Before a year old, he was using “more” spontaneously and functionally. His daycare was also great about teaching and using signs with the babies. Many childcare centers incorporate baby signs into their day.
Again, signs will not hinder spoken language in a child that can hear and is intentionally communicating with you in other ways(gestures, actions, vocalizations, etc.). Speak with your pediatrician or local Early Intervention program if you are concerned about your child’s speech and language development. Click on the Resources tab for more information regarding milestones and development. You can also find me on Instagram to see demonstrations for simple baby signs: @eattalkplays
