The Magic of Gesture Communication for Babies
Gesture Communication: A Magical Tool for a Stronger Parent-Child Relationship
Babies communicate and express themselves long before they speak. They smile, cry, wave their arms, say "goodbye" or "well done"...
Sign language is a tool that allows toddlers to express their needs. Combined with speech, it is a method that reinforces this early communication. By using simple signs and associating them with words:
We facilitate language acquisition
We promote mutual understanding
We strengthen the bond with the child who feels understood and reassured
Little by little, when he is able to pronounce words, he will stop associating them with a sign. By using signs, baby can simply tell you if he is hungry, thirsty, if he wants to play or if he is tired. It's like having a little secret dictionary with him!
Body language is not left out; around 8 months, the child claps, waves goodbye, points at objects, pulls pants to attract attention, etc. Gesture communication allows us to become aware that from the age of 10 months, the baby speaks to us.
The benefits for your child:
Language Development: Sign language helps children understand the connection between words and concepts, which aids in the acquisition of spoken language.
Reduced Frustration: By having a way to express their needs and emotions before they master spoken language, children experience less frustration and anger.
Increased self-confidence: Making yourself understood facilitates social interactions and strengthens self-esteem.
Cognitive development: Sign language stimulates different areas of the brain and thus promotes the child's overall cognitive development.
Preparation for learning to read: Sign language develops visual-spatial skills, which can facilitate learning to read.
For you parents and us educators alongside your children, sign language allows:
A better understanding of the child's needs
Communication facilitation: Sign language allows for more effective communication, even when the child has not yet mastered spoken language.
Improved quality of interactions: Exchanges are richer and more satisfying for everyone.
Calming Tool: Sign language can help calm children by providing them with a means of expression.
Practical advice:
To start, choose a few simple signs like 'eat', 'drink', 'sleep' or 'more' (again).
The important thing is to have fun and be consistent in using the signs.
To do this, the “Les Mousquetaires” nursery located in Leudelange wishes to promote the use of sign language and support you in its acquisition.
We offer:
Create a display with the main signs that we use at the nursery
Organize workshops for parents to familiarize you with sign language communication
Set up a “sign language” corner in the nursery with books, games and video supports