Toddlers are still developing verbal skills, and their frustration at not being able to communicate what they want and need can lead to loud tantrums and even poor self-esteem. That’s why it’s not too late to teach them ‘Baby Signs’ until their verbal skills catch up. Here are some benefits.
You will understand her better
You don’t have to guess what she wants or misinterpret her babbling. She in turn will be encouraged to communicate more because she sees that talking or signing gets better results than kicking and crying.
You will become closer
Your child will feel better if she knows that her wants and feelings are respected and listened to. This gives her the security of knowing her needs will be met. The trust between the two of you will grow.
You improve language skills
Teaching baby signs does not delay speech development. In fact it improves it by expanding vocabulary and improving literacy. Using spoken and signed languages together (like saying ‘dog’ while patting your leg with a hand) can reinforce the lesson.
You boost the brain power
Studies have consistently shown that signing helps improve memory and creative thinking, and stimulates both the left and right hemispheres of the brain. Some evidence shows that kids who are taught baby signs have an IQ boost of up to 10 points.
Photo from babysignsnv.com
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