Baby Signing is a method of communication between babies and their loved ones using a combination of spoken words, gestures, and ASL signs (American Sign Language). 

No.  Although they are related, ASL (American Sign Language) is a complete and sophisticated language with its own grammar and syntax, typically used in the Deaf community.  “Baby sign” is not a language, it is a collaborative communication strategy using ASL, gestures, and spoken language, typically used by hearing families with hearing children. 

Children do not acquire speech skills until well into their first and second years, but they have the ability to manipulate their hands at a much earlier age.  For this reason, signing is a more accessible means of communication than speech for very young children.

When a baby is given two ways of representing the same idea – a sign and a spoken word – they they will choose the method that is easiest which is typically a sign, sometimes accompanied by a vocalized sound. 

As they grow and their speech skills develop, they will begin to use the spoken word more often and gradually the signs will fade away.  It’s a little bit like training wheels for speech!

As early as you like!  You begin speaking to your baby right from the day they are born, and since baby signing is an extension of your speech, you can start signing right from day one.  The more language exposure a child has, the more opportunities they have to learn.

You can register for classes at Little Words Studio!  You can also watch baby signing videos online (Baby Signing Time™ is a great resource), or do your own research about strategies for signing with your baby.  Feel free to contact me anytime for more information!