Why I am Teaching Sign Language to My Son

1. Sign language is another way to make connections

Babies and toddlers are growing up in a very stimulating world. They have a lot coming at them every day. Bright lights. Loud sounds. Fast-paced action. Sign language is another way for them to make connections to language.

When my son and I read a book, I point to a picture, say the word, and sign it.

When I talk, I sign key words (MORE, PLEASE, MILK, WATER, etc).

When we spell out words with his little magnet letters, I say and sign the word as well.

When we are out and about and see everyday things, I point, say, and sign what it is.

In all, he’s getting the spoken, written, picture or real-life representation, and ASL version of a word. Sometimes all at once.

Sometimes not, but either way it’s one more way for a young child to begin forming word recognition and connections. Low-hanging fruit.

2. Sign language helps with communication

Research has shown that too much screen time can cause speech delays in children, but sometimes screen time can be unavoidable in a technology driven world.

Sign Language can help. Studies have found that sign language taught at an early age can help progress…