What is Baby Sign Language Made Easy about?
Baby Sign Language Made Easy teaches you how to use basic American Sign Language (ASL) signs with spoken words to communicate with preverbal, hearing babies. It focuses on practical, commonly used signs you can start using right away in everyday routines.
Who wrote Baby Sign Language Made Easy?
Baby Sign Language Made Easy is written by Lane Rebelo, LCSW, the founder of the Tiny Signs® baby sign language program.
How many signs are included in Baby Sign Language Made Easy?
It includes 101 illustrated ASL signs. The signs are organized by themes like mealtime, getting dressed, bedtime, playtime, animals, family, and feelings.
Does this book teach real ASL or made-up baby gestures?
This book teaches real American Sign Language (ASL) signs. It recommends sticking to ASL to keep signing consistent across caregivers and resources.
When should I start teaching my baby sign language?
You can start signing at any time, including with a newborn, as long as you keep expectations realistic. The book notes that most babies start signing back around 8 to 12 months, though some sign earlier or later.
Can I start baby sign language with a newborn?
Yes, you can start signing with a newborn if you want to build the habit early. The book explains you may be signing for months before your baby signs back, and it helps to sign close to your baby because vision is still developing.
Will baby sign language delay my baby’s speech?
No—signing will not delay speech, according to the book. It explains that research has shown signing can have a positive impact on language development.
Which signs should I teach first?
The book recommends starting with a mix of useful and playful signs. Its “First 10 Signs” include MILK, EAT, MORE, ALL DONE, BED, plus playful starters like DOG, LIGHT, BALL, BOOK, and CAR.
How many signs should I start with at the beginning?
The book recommends starting with four signs: two useful signs and two playful signs. This keeps it manageable while increasing the odds your baby will be motivated to try at least one of them.
How do I actually teach a baby to sign?
You teach signs by using them during normal routines, not by setting aside formal “lesson time.” The book’s key strategies include signing and saying the word together, signing in context, repeating key words, and keeping it fun.
What if my baby won’t look at me when I’m trying to sign?
The book gives several ways to capture attention, like bringing the object closer to you, making a sound, signing on your baby’s body, moving the sign into your baby’s line of sight, or waiting for your baby to look back at you.
When will my baby start signing back?
Most babies start signing back in the 8- to 12-month range, but timing varies by child. The book notes that older babies and toddlers may pick it up faster, sometimes in days or weeks.
Is it too late to start teaching my toddler sign language?
No, it’s not too late to start with a toddler. The book explains that after about 12 months, receptive language is strong and signing can help reduce frustration and tantrums by giving toddlers a way to communicate.
Are ASL signs too hard for babies to do?
Some signs are easier than others, but babies can still learn them through approximations. The book advises you not to simplify ASL—just expect your baby’s early versions to look different and improve over time.
How can I tell if my baby is really signing or just waving/clapping?
The book explains that early signs are often approximations and can be easy to miss. It suggests looking for purposeful, repetitive movement, checking what your baby is looking at, and noticing whether your baby looks to you for a response.
Do all caregivers need to sign for baby sign language to work?
No, you can still succeed even if not everyone signs. The book recommends sharing the signs you’re using with other caregivers when possible, especially once your baby starts signing back.
How does baby sign language work in a bilingual household?
The book says signing can help rather than confuse, because the same ASL sign can be paired with words from both spoken languages. This can help babies connect that two spoken words can mean the same thing.
Can baby sign language help kids with speech delays or other special needs?
Yes, the book explains that sign language can support communication for children who have difficulty speaking, including children with developmental challenges. It notes the teaching approach is similar, with adjusted expectations and consistent modeling.
Does the book include anything beyond the 101 signs?
Yes, it also includes the ASL alphabet and numbers as a reference. The book explains this is helpful because some signs use ASL letter handshapes, and counting can be used in songs.
