What are the benefits of using sign language with babies and toddlers?

Using sign language with your child can yield a number of benefits:

1. Makes family life easier and decreases tears because preverbal children can communicate their needs better
2. Allows parents to see how smart their babies really are as there is an enormous amount of cognitive activity during those critical first years
3. Helps babies and toddlers speak sooner because they gain vocabulary earlier
4. Enriches interactions with parents and can strengthen the parent-child bond
5. Builds a positive foundation for your child’s future emotional development by helping her express feelings in a constructive way
6. Boosts your child’s self esteem and self confidence

Is WeeHands appropriate for my child?

Your child is ready to use sign language if he or she meets the following criteria:

• At least 6 months old
• Beginning to point to things
• Bringing/giving toys to you and looking for a response
• Can wave “bye-bye”
• Beginning to shake head “yes” or “no”
• Beginning to take an interest in looking at pictures in books
• Gets frustrated when you don’t understand

Anytime is a good time to begin modeling signs!

The next WeeHands classes will begin Wednesday, January 14 at 10 a.m.

If you are interested in enrolling your child in WeeHands, click here to download an enrollment form.