Teach a Baby Sign Language - Speak your baby's name to receive her undivided attention. Be sure the room is quiet and there are no distractions. You can start teaching sign language when your baby is between 6 to 9 months old. She should have enough hand coordination to form the signs. Begin with nouns or simple action words.
Show your baby a book with which she is familiar. Say the word "book," and then form the sign for book by placing your palms together and then opening them like a book. Repeat the lesson a few times, and read the book to your baby.
Teach a Baby Sign Language
Offer your child his favorite toy after reading the book. Say the word "toy," and then sign toy by showing him your fists with the thumb tucked between the index and middle fingers. Twist your hands back and forth to complete the sign for "toy." Repeat a few times.
Sign the word "eat" when it is time for your baby's next meal. Place the fingers together and move them back and forth towards your mouth. Show her the food and make the sign for "eat" again.
Point out milk to your baby. Squeeze your fingers into a fist like you would squeeze an udder to sign "milk." Offer him the milk, and repeat the sign. Repeat the signs often with the appropriate object. Once your baby tries to make the sign himself, praise him with a hug, smile and positive words.
Baby sign language helps infants and toddlers communicate before they utter their first words. According to Gwyneth Doherty-Sneddon in "The Psychologist," behavioral and developmental problems can occur when children have difficulty communicating with adults. When you teach a baby sign language, you reduce tantrums, advance cognitive development and increase parent-child bonds. The benefits far outweigh any risks involved in teaching babies sign language, such as delayed speech. Start your lessons by observing hand gestures your child already uses, and keep lessons short and fun. - by eHow
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