Tarryn Dee and Renee Townson
As a Speech Pathologist (and now also a mother myself), I am often asked by parents whether baby sign language is something that they should be doing (or should have done with their kids).
Firstly, I think it’s important to understand the difference between baby sign language and the use of natural gestures and signs as part of everyday non-verbal communication.
Baby sign language is a commercial product if you like. There are lots of resources and classes available for parents to use and participate in. Some parents are under the impression that teaching baby signs will enhance a child’s language learning ability, or help them to speak faster. This is actually not supported by scientific research or evidence. On the other hand, there are some parents (particularly those with kids who have language delays) who are concerned that using sign language or gestures with their child will hinder speech development. This is also a myth.
What has been found through research is that children who have language delays tend to have better outcomes with regard to their overall communication development if their parents use signs and gestures with them. There is also some evidence to suggest that using signs and gestures may increase a parent’s awareness of their child’s nonverbal communication skills. In other words, it may help them to tune in to their child and what they might be trying to say even before they have words.
For a child who is typically developing (does not have a communication or language impairment), the use of baby sign is simply not necessary. They will learn to talk by being spoken to. In the same way, if a child has a language impairment and is having trouble learning to talk, a parent using signs with their child may find the child starts using signs expressively before they speak. This is because they are having signs modeled to them by their parents in naturalistic interactions (their everyday communication environment).
So what does all this mean? I would say:
- Keep it simple. Use natural gestures with your baby, the same way you might when you’re giving instructions or directions to someone who doesn’t speak your language. Use your hands to support what you are saying with your words.
- Tune in to and observe your child’s non-verbal communication attempts. Help them to learn spoken language by giving them the words that they might use in that situation. For example, if you notice them looking at a drink bottle, or pointing to it, you could say “drink” or “I want a drink” as you respond by giving them the drink.
- If you have any concerns about your child’s communication or language development then I would always suggest seeking the opinion of a speech pathologist. Following assessment, they may recommend the use of certain signs as part of your child’s therapy program. They may be used even just in the short term to support your child’s understanding and to reduce frustration for both child and parent!
