The Scoop on Sign Language for Babies
Basic hand signing moves that'll help you communicate better with your baby. Plus, see pictures of even more baby sign language gestures to try!
When you first learned about infant sign language, did you roll your eyes, or perk up with interest? Either response is fine. Signing can be a fun way for you two to bond and communicate, but it's no biggie if you never find the time: Not signing won't delay your child in any way.
If you'd like to try it, start between 8 months and a year, says Diane Ryan, author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Baby Sign Language. A few basic signs:
"Eat":Move your hand back and forth to your lips, as if putting food into your mouth.
"More": Give your child one Cheerio. After she eats it, bring the tips of all your fingers together a few times at chest level, then give her another one.
"Hurt" or "Pain": Touch the tips of your index fingers together.
