 |
Questions & Answers
» When should we begin signing with our baby?
» Can my older children learn to sign with the new baby?
» We make up "signs" and gestures at home. Why do we need a sign language program?
» How hard is it to learn sign language?
» Can't we learn to sign from a videotape or a book?
» We want our child to be bilingual. Should we postpone sign language?
» Does sign language have any negative effects on a child's development?
» What are the different methods of teaching babies to sign?
» Where can we get more information?
When should we begin signing with our baby?
You can begin introducing a few simple signs right away, but researchers seem to agree that babies around six to eight months of age have the dexterity and understanding to use signs effectively. If your baby waves "bye-bye," claps, brings you toys and other objects, nods/shakes "yes" or "no," seems interested in picture books, or imitates hand gestures, he or she is probably ready for sign language!
Can my older children learn to sign with the new baby?
Yes, absolutely, and the sooner the better. You can combine speech with signing and give your children a lifelong gift of language.
We make up "signs" and gestures at home. Why do we need sign language classes?
While a few "family" signs might be helpful around the house, American Sign Language (ASL) is a rich, expressive, widely understood language that truly promotes communication. By using this standardized language, we avoid "baby signs" and help children express themselves easily clearly-at home, at school, and with caregivers.
How hard is it to learn sign language?
The structure of ASL is follows the natural development of language in infants. Concepts ("hungry," "wet," "more," "dog," etc.) are related to gestures and quickly incorporated into the child's signed vocabulary. As your baby learns these signs, you'll learn them too, and soon you'll be amazed at how easily you can communicate.
Can't we learn to sign from a videotape or a book?
A book or videotape may be a great addition to your learning, but there's nothing like the immediate feedback of a skilled instructor to help you and your child learn signs quickly and accurately. Plus, SignShine classes and workshops are designed to match your pace and meet your needs - and of course they're lots of fun!
We want our child to be bilingual. Should we postpone sign language?
No. Children have a remarkable capacity to learn multiple languages. Sign language can actually be a bridge between other spoken languages and can help your child develop greater fluency.
Does sign language have any negative effects on a child's development?
No. Research has shown that children who sign actually have accelerated speech development, better vocabularies, and increased IQ. Signing helps verbal development.
What are the different methods of teaching babies to sign?
The two most popular are “ASL” based and “Variations of ASL”. Sign2Meä uses an ASL based program called “Sign with your Baby”, which was created after recognizing that children of deaf parents were able to communicate much earlier than children of hearing parents. Another method is “Baby Signs”, which are variations of pure ASL. The concept behind is that babies’ hands cannot properly form ASL signs, so parents are taught a slightly different gesture than actual ASL. SignShine believes in the “ASL” based method, no made up signs, but respects all other methods.
Where can we get more information?
Give us a call and we'll be happy to answer your questions.