Top 10 Baby Sign Language Signs to Start Using Today

Teaching your newborn baby sign language will change the way you communicate. Not only will it reduce frustration by giving your baby the opportunity to express his needs, but it will also strengthen the bond between you and your little one. Here are the top 10 sign languages ​​for babies that you can start using today:

1. More

Sign: To signal “more,” touch the fingertips of one hand to the fingertips of the other hand, then bring them apart and back together.

Why Use It: This sign is incredibly versatile and can be used to ask for more food, more playtime, or even more hugs. It helps your baby express their desire for additional items or activities.

2. Milk

Sign: Open and close your hand into a fist, mimicking the motion of milking a cow.

Why Use It: If your baby is hungry or wants to nurse, this sign helps them communicate their need for milk before they can use words.

3. Eat

Sign: Place your fingers to your mouth as if you’re putting food in.

Why Use It: This sign helps your baby indicate when they are hungry or want to eat. It’s a fundamental sign that can help streamline mealtime communication.

4. All Done/Finished

Sign: Rotate your hands in front of you, palms facing up, then turn them outwards and shake them slightly.

Why Use It: Use this sign when your baby is finished with an activity, a meal, or a diaper change. It provides a clear indication that it’s time to move on.

5. Please

Sign: Place the flat palm of one hand on your chest and move it in a circular motion.

Why Use It: Teaching your baby to use “please” can help them understand the concept of politeness and improve their ability to request things in a courteous manner.

6. Thank You

Sign: Place the fingers of one hand on your chin and move them outward.

Why Use It: By introducing this sign, you help your baby express gratitude, making interactions with family members and caregivers more pleasant and meaningful.

7. Help

Sign: Place one hand under the other, with the top hand making a fist, and then lift both hands up.

Why Use It: When your baby needs assistance or is struggling with a task, this sign allows them to request help. It’s a great tool for fostering independence while still providing support.

8. More (Repetition)

Sign: Tap the fingertips of one hand on the fingertips of the other hand.

Why Use It: Similar to the first “more” sign but used for emphasizing the need for more of something, this sign can be particularly useful during playtime or meals.

9. Sleep

Sign: Rest your hands together on your cheek as if you’re resting your head on a pillow.

Why Use It: This sign helps your baby communicate when they are tired or ready for nap time, making bedtime routines smoother and more predictable.

10. Bath

Sign: Move your hands in a scrubbing motion as if washing yourself.

Why Use It: Use this sign to let your baby know it’s time for a bath. It can help make the bath routine fun and less of a surprise.

Getting Started

You can easily incorporate these signs into your daily life by using them consistently and connecting them with spoken language. For example, if your baby reaches for more food, say “more” while making the signal. Consistency is key to helping your baby understand and use these signs effectively. Remember, baby signs are a great tool to promote early communication and reduce frustration for both mom and baby. Start using these signs today and observe how quickly your child understands how to connect with you in this new way.