5 Baby Sign Language Myths You Need to Stop Believing

If you're considering teaching your child sign language, you probably have some concerns about “facts” you've seen circulating on the internet—trust us, you’re not alone. There's lots to consider before entering the world of baby sign language, but I promise there are more pros than cons! Here I’ll debunk the top five myths about baby sign language so you can comfortably introduce language to your child.

Myth #1: You Must Wait For The Perfect Time To Start

Lots of people ask when the “best” time to start teaching their baby sign language is. Most worry that it’s too soon or too late (especially those whose children are already talking), but the truth is that signs can be started at any age, any time. It’s just like any other second language: Do you wish to start right away? Do you want your child to learn signs faster? Are you mainly looking to support your child’s development or learning? It all depends on the goals of your family.

Myth #2: There’s A "Right" Way To Teach Sign Language

You may worry about which words to start with, what order to teach them in and at what pace—this is all normal! Rest assured that if you sign consistently and keep it fun, your child will learn. There are no perfect words to start with, just as there isn’t a perfect number of words or the perfect pace. Do what feels comfortable for you and your child.

Myth #3: My Child Isn’t Signing Back, So They Must Not Be Interested

Don’t get discouraged if your child doesn’t sign back right away. Like with any development, it will happen at your child’s individual pace depending on what feels natural to them. There are lots of variables involved—such as when you start signing, how you present signs, how you model signs, sibling dynamics, life events, how consistent you are with signing, etc. There are seven steps to learning sign language and four of them happen before your child even decides to sign back. Children absorb language before initiating it, so give your child time. It will happen when they’re ready.

Myth #4: Sign Language Delays Speech Development

This myth couldn’t be further from the truth. Sign language actually facilitates the development of speech and language by providing visual clues. This allows them to learn the meaning and use of words quicker than without them. Additionally, it allows your child to express themselves before they start talking. They have their needs and desires communicated and met before they speak, which in turn only increases their desire to communicate more. Plus, exposing babies to sign language encourages parents to talk more, therefore accelerating oral communication skills.

Still not convinced? Think of language like walking. Your child first rolls over, crawls, pulls themselves up, travels along furniture, and then walks. Just because they crawled first doesn’t mean they didn’t learn to walk. If your child learns to sign, they will still learn to talk.

Myth #5: Sign Language Takes Too Much Time & Effort

I get it—we all lead busy lives, but teaching sign language to your baby doesn’t require extra time. Baby sign language can easily be incorporated into your daily routines and activities, and there’s no need for extra lessons. Mealtimes, bath times, bedtimes—your children are little sponges, so they’ll pick signing up quickly when it’s used consistently throughout the day. My Sign, Say and Play modules are based around each of these daily routines, teaching signs and development during everyday life.

Want to learn more about baby sign language? I offer a FREE workshop covering the benefits of baby sign language, when and how to start, tips for success, creating your own personal baby language plan, and so much more! Get started now!