Sign language for all

Sign language is a wonderful skill to teach children and can be used with preverbal (infant and toddler) and nonverbal (toddler and preschool) children. It’s an effective and pleasant way for your child to be able to tell you what they need without resorting to tantrums. To teach any sign, model for the child what the sign looks like by doing it yourself while you say the words. For example, sign and say “more” while you give them more of a favorite food. In the beginning you’ll need to take their hands in yours and help them make the sign. Be prepared to do this many, many times - practice and motivation are the keys to making this work!

Here are some of the most common signs we teach young children with video links for more tips.

More. Children can use the simple sign for “more” to let you know they want more of anything - food, play, interaction. To teach this sign, figure out an activity that is motivating for your child. For example, if your child loves a silly tickle game, do this for a few second, then stop and use the sign for “more” to let them know they can sign to tell you they want to continue. Then continue the tickle game so they start to understand the connection between signing and getting what they want. For many children, food is motivating and you can give a small amount of their favorite food or drink and then encourage them to sign “more” to get more of the same.

All done. Similar to having control to request something, children need to be able to tell you they are finished with something or don’t want more. Many people start by teaching “more” and then follow this quickly with “all done” so children can make a choice between these two options. For example, toward the end of a meal you could say and sign “more” or “all done" so they have the tools to tell you their decision. Be sure to follow through based on what they decide!

Please. Teaching “please” lets children request an item that they can see or you have. Without needing the words or signs for every item they want to request, they can look at something (food, toy, etc.) and then sign “please” to request it.

Help. For toddlers and preschoolers, the ability to ask for help is vital. They are starting to do more and more on their own, but need adult assistance so frustrations don’t turn into meltdowns. Encouraging your child to ask for help lets them be independent, yet successful.