We all know how frustrating it is when we are unable to communicate our needs and wants effectively with each other. If you are the parent of a baby, you will experience that frustration. That’s why we started using American Sign Language (ASL) for babies and toddler daycare curriculum at Kiddie Academy of Stafford® Educational Child Care.
“Our curriculum focuses on the use of sign language with infants,” said Renee Thompson, Kiddie Academy of Stafford curriculum director. “This provides children with a non-verbal communication channel with parents and teachers.”
ASL can help young children begin to communicate their needs, says Richard Peterson, vice president of education at Kiddie Academy of Stafford, “Research shows that when using sign language at the age of six months, babies understand their parents and guardians. Signing can be started in 12 months. This helps parents and guardians understand what their child wants and needs at an early age, helping to reduce their dissatisfaction. “
It is also believed that the ability to sign helps young children to communicate more quickly orally and in writing as they grow up. Children's education to learn children's sign language is acceptable. The researchers found that children taught by parents to use gestures before speaking had better language skills than children who did not teach gestures. Benefits include an increase in vocabulary comprehension at the age of 15 months and a longer vocabulary and sentences at the age of 2 years [1].
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RSlGrSuS7TQ
Peterson said Kiddie Academy of Stafford teachers are role models and practice sign language when talking to babies and toddlers Stafford. They showed the child a sign and repeated his words. The teacher will help the child learn hand and body movements to make signs while repeating the label name. They will practice the signs repeatedly until the baby begins to associate the symbols with the words.
“We also teach parents the signs,” Thompson said. “This will enhance learning at home. We recommend that they browse the website. Babysignlanguage.com Free to find instructional videos so they can practice with their children. Download the free sign language chart here.
