Little Bit of Green

Teaching a baby to sign is great for both parent and child. We have written several columns covering the benefits of baby sign language, the application of baby sign language for children with certain special needs, how to succeed in teaching baby sign langauge, and other general information on the subject. In this article, we simply want to teach you some of the more popular signs so you can get started signing with your baby!

Mother

Obviously, baby needs to be able to call for Mommy and Daddy. We start with the ever popular “Mommy” (or “mama” where I come from). Mommy will be so proud when she sees this sign. Spread you fingers in an “open-5.” While holding your five fingers out, place your thumb on your chin.

Daddy

Of course, after baby learns mommy, she must learn “Daddy.” Dad will be even prouder than Mom when he sees baby ask for him. Make an “open-5.” Next, leaving your fingers extended, place your thumb on your forehead.

Milk

Now that baby has mom and dad’s attention, she can ask for more “milk.” You may have seen this fun one on the popular movie, Meet the Fockers. Simply open and close the fist of one or both hands, like you are milking a cow. Holy cow, it’s that easy! This will be a popular sign for your baby. It relates to one of her favorite pastimes, drinking milk.

Eat

Now that baby can tell you she needs a drink, let’s prepare her to tell you she is hungry and ready to “eat.” Like milk, this will become one of your child’s favorites. Simply bring your fingers to your mouth in a repetitive motion, as if you are holding a piece of food (with the “flat–O”) and are going to eat it.

More

Once baby can ask for food and drink, she will be sure to want to ask for “more.” This is certainly one of our girl’s favorites. To sign more, just bring both “flat-O” hands together, touching finger tips together multiple times in front of your body.

All Done

Now that baby is full, teach her to tell you she is “all done.” The sign is much more pleasant than baby pitching a fit to get out of her high chair. You can use this sign to confirm that baby is finished with any of a variety of activities. Baby can tell you she is “all done,” meaning “I’m all done….don’t make me keep doing this activity.” To sign all done, hold both palms up, facing inward, then flip both palms outward.

Well, there you have it…Six super signs to get you started teaching your baby to sign. Good luck and happy signing!

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