Learn the American Sign Language signs for 60+ of the most common first words spoken by toddlers. Use this worksheet as a reference as you’re learning these new signs.
Many children who are late to talk or who struggle to say words clearly benefit from using sign language. Sign language allows the child to use his hands to communicate with those around him when his mouth won’t do the trick. This can reduce frustration for children who have a lot to say but can’t get it out. Using sign language in children who are not yet speaking has been studied thoroughly and the research shows that using sign language will not prevent a child from speaking or slow him down in terms of spoken speech. In many cases, using sign language (or other forms of alternative communication) has actually been shown to help children start talking more quickly.
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