By Happiest Baby Staff
Babies start collecting info about sounds and words from the get-go, but it takes a really long time for them to actually learn how to talk. Talking is hard work! Your baby’s lips, tongue, and throat need to figure out how to move together with perfect split-second teamwork in order to form words. In fact, it takes most kids two to three years to get really good at speaking. But that doesn’t mean you need to wait that long to communicate with your little one! A great way to jump-start your child’s ability to “talk” is to teach them how to sign.
You can begin signing to your baby whenever you like, just know that your precious bub won’t have the skill set to sign back until they’re at least 6 months old. But that doesn’t mean they don’t understand you! By the time your baby is one, their right brain will be an expert at reading gestures. That means if you’re not already signing by your tot’s first birthday, it’s a great time to start.
Heck, your baby may have started without you! For instance, some young toddlers will do something like raise their hands whenever they want to leave. Tuned-in parents can copy-cat that cue and “tell” their tot it’s time to go with the same signal. (Genius, right?) Here, some tips, tricks, and signs to help kick start your baby sign language journey.
No! While, sure, baby signs can easily be the same as those used in American Sign Language (ASL), they don’t have to be. Just like some babies and toddlers make up their own signs, you can, too. The only real “rules” you need to follow is simplicity and consistency. Think about which words your baby hears the most and start there. Practice signing often and have others use the same signs when communicating with your baby, too. And, finally, always say the word for the sign slowly and clearly as you make the sign. Here are some easy signs—and how-tos—to start you off!
As in, I’d like some more milk, please! Here, you pinch your thumbs and fingers together on both hands, creating two ovals, then bring your hands together for a few quick tap-tap-taps.
This sign is a way cleaner alternative to the traditional toss-food-on-floor cue. For this sign, go ahead and mimic the ASL sign for “finished” which involves putting your hands up, palms toward you, then turning them with your palms facing out. (It’s as if you’re showing your baby that there’s nothing in your hand.)
Remembering the sign for eat is easy: Simply pretend you’re about to put a bit of food in your mouth by flattening your fingers on top of your thumb, then bring your fingertips to your mouth.
Next time you want to ask your tot if they'd like something to drink, make a C shape with your hand, like you’re holding an invisible cup. Next, move your “cup” to your mouth as if you’re about to take a sip.
If you’re an early potty-trainer, this sign is especially helpful: Make a thumbs-up with one hand and hold your other hand, loosely fisted, above.
Next, slide the bottom thumbs-up inside of the above fist. Then, pull your bottom thumb-up hand down from the upper fist, leaving your thumb extended. (It’ll look kind of like your upper hand is pooing out the lower hand…very effective, we know.)
Is it almost time for night-night? Do you want to ask your love if they’re tired? Try this sign for sleep: Hold one hand over your forehead, palm toward you, fingers spread. Next, bring your hand down over your face, all the while pulling your fingers to your thumb, until they come together at your chin. For added effect: As your hand drops down your face, you could droop your eyelids closed.
For this one think more bovine than breast: Hold two fists in front of you, then repeatedly squeeze both as if you’re milking a cow.
Need to give your tot a heads up that, soon, playtime will morph into bathtime? Show them the sign for bath: Make two fists (thumb-side to the sky) then move them up and down in front of your chest.
To remember this baby sign, imagine that you are scrubbing your chest in the tub.
This one is pretty intuitive: Put your hands together with your thumbs facing up. Then, open your hands flat like a book, keeping the pinkie-sides of your hands together, acting like the “book’s” spine.
While we’d love our days to be filled with joyful Yeses, sometimes a stern No is in order, like when you need to keep your little one safe from harm. For the No sign, on one hand, extend your thumb as well as your index and middle fingers (which you’ll hold together). Next, quickly snap the two fingers to the thumb. Don’t forget to shake your head and say No at the same time!
For more on successfully communicating with your tyke, read The Happiest Toddler on the Block along with these articles:
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We all hate seeing our kids unhappy—but when baby is too young to speak, it can be hard to know exactly what your little one wants. Are they hungry? Tired? Do they need a diaper change? Plus, it’s also probably just as frustrating for baby when their message just isn’t getting across. In recent years, more and more parents have been turning to baby sign language to help boost communication with their preverbal kids. Here, learn from experts what sign language for babies is, its benefits, how to start teaching it and 25 common baby signs to know.
In this article:
What is baby sign language?
Benefits of baby sign language Potential disadvantages of baby sign language How and when to start baby sign language
Common baby signs
Baby sign language chart
Baby sign language is a set of simple hand gestures and movements, otherwise known as signs, that correspond to common words you use with baby every day.
It’s a helpful tool to enhance communication between hearing parents and babies who can hear but can’t yet talk. Sometimes the baby signs are the same as those used in American Sign Language (ASL), but not always. “Baby sign is not a technical sign language, such as ASL or BSL (British sign language), which are primarily used by the deaf community and are more complex, with grammar and sentence structure,” says Jann Fujimoto, CCC-SLP, a certified speech-language pathologist in Wisconsin. “It’s a looser version that uses just signs for individual words.”
Academics began making powerful observations about how hearing families could benefit from using baby sign language around 200 years ago, thanks to the work of linguist William Dwight Whitney in the 1800s. But it wasn’t until the 2000s that baby sign language became readily available to parents through workshops, classes and baby sign language books.
Baby sign language is thought to offer a bunch of potential short-term and lasting benefits.
Being able to understand what your preverbal baby wants or needs—and allowing baby to express themselves without the use of words—can go a long way in building your relationship. Some of the possible benefits of baby sign language are:
In the late 1980s, Linda Acredolo, a University of California, Davis professor, and Susan Goodwyn, a professor at University of Southern California, Stanislaus, found that babies who used baby sign language actually learned verbal skills faster than those who didn’t sign. In a second study, they later checked in on those same children at age 8 and found that the babies who used signs scored higher on IQ tests than the non-signers.
Shira Fogel, a speech pathologist who founded Tiny Talkers, a baby sign language workshop program in Portland, Oregon, became a believer in the benefits of sign language for babies after witnessing her first child’s remarkable progress. Her daughter made her first sign (milk) at 5.5 months, knew more than 100 signs at 12 months and could speak in full sentences by the time she was 18 months old. Even the American Academy of Pediatrics believes baby sign language can help bridge the communication gap and has given it its stamp of approval.
It’s worth noting, though, that not all academics agree that baby sign language offers proven benefits. While some studies (like the ones conducted by Acredolo and Goodwyn) have found significant upsides to using sign language for babies, other studies haven’t unearthed any significant or long-term differences between children who learn baby sign language and those who don’t. So in general, the benefits of baby sign are considered theoretical.
And, as Jack Maypole, MD, associate clinical professor of pediatrics at Boston Medical Center, points out, some benefits of baby sign language may be overstated and overpromised by the vast offerings of baby sign products on the market. “While learning baby sign language may help hearing parents and children communicate better, the results won’t necessarily be transformative, so be wary of programs that promise to get your child into Harvard or have their first novel published by nursery school,” Maypole says.
So you’ve brushed up on the possible benefits of sign language for babies—but what about potential downsides? Since baby can begin to communicate using signs instead of spoken words, many parents wonder—does baby sign language delay speech? Fujimoto says no. If baby is developing at a healthy pace, baby sign just supplements their learning and gives them another way to express themselves. If you think baby might actually have a hearing impairment, don’t just rely on baby sign language as a solution, she adds.
Talk to your pediatrician about your concerns and ask about referrals to an audiologist, who can perform the proper hearing tests and assessments.
If you’ve decided to give baby sign language a go, you may be wondering when to teach baby some signs. A good time to start is when baby is 4 to 6 months old, according to Fujimoto. As for how, there are many different approaches to teaching baby sign language, but generally, you can teach baby by saying a word like “milk,” while making the sign at the same time, and then giving baby the milk. “Don’t hold out the item as a prize and refuse to hand it over until your child makes the sign himself,” Fujimoto says. “Verbal reinforcement—by saying the word while also showing the sign—as well as consistency are key.”
As part of the consistency, you’ll want to use the signs every day for baby to truly understand them. While your little one likely won’t start making signs on their own until they’re about 6 to 9 months, eventually baby will start to make connections between the word, sign and item.
Just like learning a foreign language, a preverbal baby is going to understand more than they can speak—or in this case, sign—at first.
For more resources, parents can turn to the many workshops, videos, books and apps available these days, all designed to help you teach sign language for babies. A typical class or workshop may teach parents 30 to 50 different signs you can then use with baby at your own pace. “Some families with older babies may learn best by singing along with a video, or attending a class together,” Fujimoto says. “Families should find the method that makes sense for them.”
When you’re ready to begin teaching baby sign language, you’ll need to decide which baby signs to start with. Fujimoto says to choose the words you and your family use the most on a day-to-day basis, like “more,” “please” and “milk.” Ready to learn how to teach baby sign language? Brush up on the below illustrations of 25 common baby signs.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
It’s important for baby to be able to communicate when they’re tummy feels empty—you know, before they get hangry.
Teach them how to show you they’re “hungry” in sign language. You can make the sign for “hungry” by cupping your hand around your neck to make a C shape, then move your hand down from your neck to your stomach.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
Want to learn how to sign “drink” in sign language? This one involves mimicking the action! Make a C shape with your hand, as if you were holding a cup, then move it to your mouth as if you were drinking from it.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
Wondering how to teach baby sign language? It’s best to start with something baby knows, likes and wants—for example, milk. You can communicate the word “milk” in sign language, by making two fists, then extend your fingers and bring them back into fists.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
Teach baby how to request “water” in sign language, and you’ll always know when your little one wants their sippy cup.
The sign for “water” is made by extending your three middle fingers so they’re pointing up, with your thumb and pinkie tucked down, and then tapping your index finger to your chin.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
Do you have trouble knowing if and when baby wants extra spoonfuls of their favorite puree? “More” is another important word for you and baby to learn. To express “more” in sign language, pinch your thumbs and fingers together on both hands, creating two O shapes, then tapping your fingertips together a few times.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
When baby is full, they want you to stop shoving that spoon toward their mouth. Teach them to let you know they’re “all done” without fussing by using the ASL sign for “finished.” Start with your hands up, palms facing toward you, and turn them until your palms face out.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
When it comes to baby sign language, the sign “play” certainly belongs in your arsenal.
To communicate “play” in sign language, clench your fingers to your palms, leaving your thumbs and pinkies extended; then with palms facing you, twist your wrists back and forth.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
Nobody likes having a fussy, sleep-deprived baby on their hands, so it’s a good idea to practice “sleep” in sign language. Hold your hand over your forehead with your fingers spread apart, then draw your hand down over your face until your fingers and thumb come together to touch your chin. Even babies who resist nap time may whip this one out when they’re especially exhausted.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
Your little one will want to know how to address their favorite people in baby sign language. To sign “mom,” simply spread your fingers apart, then with your pinkie facing forward, tap your thumb to your chin.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
As another one of baby’s favorite people, Dad will want in on the fun too! You can make the sign for “dad” by spreading your fingers apart, then with your pinkie facing forward, tap your thumb to your forehead.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
Everybody does it, so you might as well learn to sign it! If you want to indicate “poop” in sign language, clench both hands into fists and stack them on top of each other, with the thumb of the bottom hand tucked inside the upper fist. Then, pull your bottom hand down from the upper hand, leaving your thumb extended. Next time baby soils their diaper, they’ll let you know—before you even smell it.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
Another easy and important sign to learn is “yes.” Enthusiastically nodding your head is great, but this sign gives baby yet another communication tool. Intuitively, “yes” in sign language looks just like a nodding hand. Make a fist and then, folding at your wrist, bob your fist up and down.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
Again, shaking your head works, but this sign helps reiterate the point. To express “no” in sign language, extend your thumb, index and middle fingers, then quickly snap them together.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
Instead of signing “hungry,” baby may want to ask for “food.” This sign can also mean “eat.” Communicate “food” in sign language by flattening your fingers on top of your thumb and then bringing your fingertips to your mouth.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
When learning and teaching baby sign language, be sure to review the sign for “help.” This can be useful to baby in so many different situations; plus, being able to ask for support from a parent or caregiver can help reduce any frustration a baby may feel. If you want to communicate “help” in sign language, simply make a fist with one hand, with the thumb extended, and place it over your other hand, which is extended flat. Then move both hands up together.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
Want to tell baby it’s bath time? Express ‘“bath” in sign language by making two fists, then moving them up and down in front of your chest (as if you were scrubbing yourself clean).
Image: Kitkat Pecson
Storytime is the best time! Use your hands to say “book” in sign language; clasp your palms together with your thumbs facing up, then hinge open your hands, keeping your pinkies together (as if you were cracking open a book).
Image: Kitkat Pecson
The sign for “medicine” is made by placing your middle finger into the palm of your opposite hand and twisting.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
To sign “share,” extend one hand flat, with your thumb pointing up. Then, run your other hand back and forth along the top of your extended fingers.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
Teach baby to show empathy and express feelings before they know how to do it verbally. The sign for “sorry” is made by rubbing a fisted hand in a circle over your chest.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
Manners matter.
Teach baby to ask for things politely from the get-go. To sign “please,” extend your fingers and thumb out, then rub your flattened palm against your chest in circles.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
Nothing is sweeter than watching your little one express gratitude. And they’ll appreciate it when you show them the same respect and courtesy right back. To sign “thank you,” straighten your thumb and fingers, then bring your fingers to your chin and pull them away.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
The sign for “you’re welcome” is the same as the sign for “thank you”—flatten your hand, bring your fingers to your chin and pull them back.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
This is one sign you’re going to both want to use all the time. To sign “I love you,” extend your thumb, index and pinkie fingers (but keep your ring and middle fingers down). Hold your hand out with the palm facing away and rotate your hand side to side.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
The baby sign for “hurt” is done by clenching both hands into fists, then extending your index fingers and touching them together.
Here, you can see 25 of the most common signs, all in one comprehensive baby sign language chart.
Image: Kitkat Pecson
Now that you know the basics of how to teach baby sign language, begin practicing a few words you think you’ll use most frequently at home. Your little one will love having a special way to communicate their wants and needs with you. What’s more, having the ability to express your feelings to each other will help strengthen your bond. It’s a win-win!
About the experts:
Jann Fujimoto, CCC-SLP, is a certified speech-language pathologist in Wisconsin. With 17 years of experience, she has worked in birth-to-three programs, pre-schools and schools, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities and outpatient clinics.
She received her MS in communication disorders from the University of Texas at Dallas.
Jack Maypole, MD, is an associate clinical professor of pediatrics at Boston Medical Center and a pediatrician with over two decades of experience. He received his bachelor’s degree from Yale University and his medical degree from Yale University School of Medicine.
Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.
Plus, more from The Bump:
When Do Babies Start Talking
How Should I Be Talking to Baby
11 Best Baby Book Subscriptions for Expanding Little Minds
ASL stands for “ Age, Gender, Location On Snapchat. It is usually used for dating.
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What does dead ASL mean? DEAD / die: Memory aid: Think about how to "roll over in your grave". Or how about "Pisces roll over when they die." Notes: ... The GONE sign may be an "acceptable" euphemism for DEAD in ASL. Used to indicate "dead" the GONE sign must be made in context. nine0005
What does ASL mean on FB?
First ASL determination
Age, gender, location? “This is the most common definition of ASL on Snapchat, WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and dating sites.
What does ASI mean in the text? UPS
| Acronym | Definition |
|---|---|
| HOW I AM | Automobile Club Storico Italiano (Italian: Italian Historical Automobile Club) |
| HOW I AM | Additional Skill ID |
| HOW I AM | Assistant Junior Inspector |
| HOW I AM | American Society of Indexers |
The English Defense League (EDL) is a far-right Islamophobic organization in the United Kingdom.
COLLEGE: American Sign Language (ASL) sign means "college"
Company The dominant hand starts a couple of inches above the base hand and circles, flapping down and back up a few inches. .
ASL is short term for age, gender and location in online chat. Too many people use Omegle and they enjoy talking to people of their age or related place. Shortening ASL in chat helps save time and ask three common questions from strangers. nine0005
The "asl" abbreviation used on TikTok and other platforms like Twitter and Instagram means " as hell.
Automated Securities Lending (ASL)
Why is it important to learn American Sign Language (ASL)?
American Sign Language (ASL) is one of the most widely used languages in the United States and the fourth-largest second language in American universities.
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Simp is slang an insult for men who are considered too attentive and submissive towards women especially because of the failed hope of attracting sexual attention or activity to themselves.
Purpose Academic Support Instruction Program (ASI) is designed to provide students (and teachers) with additional resources for teachers who act as an intervention specialist for students demonstrating academic difficulties in math and/or language literacy. nine0005
No, Asi is not in the game Dictionary.
What is the definition of DP? DP stands for show picture . » The Internet abbreviation "DP" is used to describe the phrase "display picture". The term refers to profile pictures of people on social media like Facebook, Instagram, etc.
Example:… I like it.” (“Your avatar is so cute.”)
NDL
| Acronym | Definition |
|---|---|
| NDL | Network data language |
| NDL | National DGZ (desired zero level) |
| NDL | Naked Dancing Lama |
| NDL | National Dodgeball League (Hopkins, MN) |
Alternative Education / Elementary Extended Day Education (EDL)
Rigid is signed exactly the same as hard: bang your fists together a couple of times until forms a double X on each hand (or a crooked V, whatever you want to call it).
Badge for "graduates" uses hand "G" . The "G" hand flips and lands on the palm of the main hand.
Sample sentence: "When did you graduate from college?" nine0005
Signing is easy, hold both hands in front of you palms up and fingers clasped together on each hand. Then, keeping the non-dominant hand stationary, lift the dominant hand up sharply, touching the fingers of the stable non-dominant hand several times.
Que Lo Que? (Spanish for "What happened?") is the most common definition of KLK on Snapchat, WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. nine0005
Often when you chat with another person on Omegle, the first thing they text you - at least after a quick hello - is the acronym "ASL?" This query means "Age, gender, location?" and is for start a conversation by asking Omegle users to reveal their gender, how old they are and ...
Omegle text chat remains basically anonymous unless the user reveals any personal details .
As it says on its website: To help you stay safe, the chats are anonymous unless you tell someone who you are (not recommended!), and you can stop the chat at any time.
Tired of signing, extend your fingers, holding them together in each bent hand . Start by touching the fingers on both sides of the chest, elbows up. It's like you're so tired that you can't keep your hands up. ...
Hmu is short for " hit me . » This is a social invitation request, often posted online, to announce that you want to do something and encourage others to reach out to you.
"How to fuck" is the most common definition of ASF on TikTok, Snapchat, WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Tags: MeaningSocial MediaUrban DictionaryWhat does ASL mean?Wiki
