Sign Language + Communication Development
A powerful combination
Communication is a fundamental aspect of human interaction, and for young ones, it's a journey of exploration and discovery. Simple sign language can be a powerful tool to support and enhance communication development. Let’s explore the benefits of using sign language and how this can empower little ones to understand the power of communication, laying the foundation for language development.
Understanding Sign Language: Signs are visual gestures or hand movements that can be used to communicate. For some, this is a primary language. Other times, signs can be used to support spoken language, or to build skills before verbal language skills have developed. Modeling these signs often paired with the spoken word are essential to teach the connection. Even before they can speak, little ones can learn the power their actions have and become confident communicators.
Empowering through Visual Communication: Learning simple sign language introduces kids to the empowering world of communication. By using signs, children learn that their gestures have meaning, and they can effectively convey their needs and desires. This understanding of the communicative power of signs is a crucial building block for their language development.
Foundational Skills for Language Development: As children learn specific hand movements for various signs, they are developing essential communication skills. The subtle differences in hand movements for each sign result in different rewards, reinforcing the notion that their gestures have a direct impact on their environment and caregivers' responses. As we pair these signs with words, it helps to reinforce first words and language development.
Popular Signs to Use:
Clip art provided by 35 Corks
Customizing Unique Signs: In addition to popular signs, parents and caregivers can create signs for items or words that are specific to their family or environment. Incorporating signs for beloved family members, pets, or favorite toys allows kids to communicate more effectively about their immediate surroundings.
Sign language is a wonderful tool for enhancing communication development. Through visual gestures, little ones grasp the power of communication and understand that their expressions have significance and impact. As caregivers, embracing sign language empowers us to better understand our children’s' needs and desires, fostering a deeper connection and strengthening the bond between parent and child. Let's embark on this enriching journey of signs, paving the way for language development and embracing the joy of meaningful communication with our little ones.
