Even though we might not realize it, we use sign language to communicate all the time. For instance, when we want someone to follow us or point at something. These gestures are natural and happen subconsciously. It allows you to communicate and interact with anyone efficiently. Let’s look at the definition of sign language and the benefits of using it in early child development.
What Is Sign Language?
Sign language is a visual language that uses hand actions and shapes to communicate words and sentences. Gestures such as facial expressions help clarify meaning. Just as with any spoken language, there are hundreds of different sign languages. The most commonly used is the American Sign Language (ASL).
Benefits of Using Sign Language For Kids
Teaching sign language to kids has several benefits. Here are 5 such benefits:
Helps to Communicate Effectively
If a child has hearing difficulties and problems with expressing themselves, signing is an excellent way for them to communicate. Sign language helps to overcome several communication barriers.
Enhancing Reading/learning Ability
The idea of using sign language is to take advantage of the visual-spatial part of your brain. We use this part of the brain when learning to read. Hence, children may benefit from learning sign language because it strengthens the part of the brain that is linked to reading.
Reduces Frustration
Feeling like you can’t get a word out but desperately wanting to say something is an irritating feeling, Especially when you’re young and do not know the verbal language yet. So using sign language is a good way for kids to communicate.
Strengthens Child-Parent Communication
When your child is crying, it can cause a lot of stress. Most times, they are struggling to tell you what they need or want, and it can start to turn into sort of a guessing game. Luckily, with sign language, they can let you know the reason for their discomfort without any confusion at all. This helps the parents to resolve the situation with ease.
Increase Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence
Research on toddlers has shown that they are more confident and have higher self-esteem when exposed to sign language.
Conclusion
Sign language has many benefits for young children, one of the most important being the inclusive environment it creates. To teach your baby sign language is to allow him/her to communicate with others outside of their hearing circle, including classmates and older peers, without any hindrance. So feel free to enroll in an ASL for babies and toddlers program to help your child learn sign language and communicate effectively.
