Babies can learn sign language before they can speak, and sign language gives them a way to express their wants and needs, easing their frustration (and yours). Signing allows parents, siblings, caregivers and grandparents to know what a baby is thinking, curb challenging behavior, and have fun “chatting” about daily activities.
Communication in any form, whether through words, cries, signing, or body language, allows us to bond with those around us. The ability to communicate enables one to connect, learn, and grow.
The interest surrounding baby signing only continues to increase as more parents embrace this means of communication with babies before they can talk. This quick and comprehensive ‘course’ in baby signing features a program that caregivers can customize according to their family’s needs and offers age-specific advice on how to teach sign language as your child grows and develops.
This bestselling book on baby signing has been updated to include more ASL symbols, additional case studies and updated information.
Part 1 of the book provides an introduction to signing with babies and young children.
Part 2 is an illustrated dictionary of 450 ASL signs.
Part 3 provides songs and rhymes you can sign with your child.
Special features include:
The top five signing tips
A program that parents can customize according to their family’s needs
Answers to frequently asked questions
Instructions on the five distinct components of ASL signs: body space, hand shape, movement, palm orientation and facial expression
Age-specific advice on how to teach sign language as your child develops
By simply following this book, a special world of communication awaits you, your family, and your baby.
SARA BINGHAMis the founder of WeeHands, the world’s leading children’s sign language and language development program for babies, toddlers and preschool children. She holds a BA in Linguistics and one in Psychology, as well as a post-graduate diploma in Communicative Disorders. Sara is the proud mother of two signing children and a frequent contributor to parenting magazines and baby-related professional websites. She lives in Ontario.
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The WINNER will be selected on August 15, 2013. Good Luck!
By: Alicia Gonzalez
Editor’s Note:Years ago, I had this irrational idea in my mind that teaching a baby to sign would inhibit their language. I could not have been more wrong. When I was blessed with unexpected triplets, all of whom were later diagnosed with Autism, I was at a loss for how to illicit communication from them. I found myself at a local college sitting in a class to learn Sign Language. When the term ended, I found myself in yet another class, continuing to learn Sign Language. Sometimes my kids get “stuck” and signing to them can bring them out of their non-communicative-zone. For them, signing wasn’t just a door to communication, it was the key. They still have a long way to go but I can honestly say I wish I would have started signing with them and their siblings even earlier. In most cases, sign enhances communication for all children. 24/7 Modern Mom™ received the review copy and giveaway copy of this book at no charge to us.