how do i teach my 20 month old sign lang.?

Question

I was told that my 20 month old son would be deaf by the time he is 4. I get so frustrated with him cause i don't know what it is that he wants. HELP

Answer 1

He's at a good age to start sign language. In fact, baby sign language (which is based on American sign language) is getting popular among parents with babies with normal hearing as it helps them communicate long before they're able to speak. The way they teach their babies could be pretty similiar to the way you could approach your child.

Other than the obvious part about needing to learn sign language well yourself first, here are some basic pointers in getting started (adapted from an article I wrote for a health magazine some time ago):

1. Engage your kid's eye contact.
2. Show the sign close to your face when you get eye contact so that it'll be in line of sight between you and junior.
3. Show him the sign just before or after you do the action.
4. Use body language where it may help, e.g. mock shivering when signing "cold".
5. You may guide his hands to imitate the sign.
6. Repeat, repeat, repeat! Repetition is the key.
7. Be consistent. Don't confuse him by forgetting or using different signs.
8. Using pictures or toys can sometimes help in demonstrating.

The space here is a little limited for a detailed explanation of teaching sign language, so the best idea is to see a therapist or experienced childcare-giver for some pointers as to how to teach your kid effectively.

Answer 2

Just start using sign language all the time around him. He'll pick up on it. When children are born with seeing it all the time it will become like second nature. Up to the age of 7 you can teach a child as many laguages as you want even at the same time and he will never get them confused. I learned it in psychology. This includes sign language

Answer 3

Who told you this? If a doctor, doesn't she have resources you can look into? I haven't taught deaf children sign, but have taught the basics to hearing children - you have to repeat the signs for the things they want - more, drink, food - etc. over and over. Say the word at the same time and reward your child immediately if the sign is made. (By giving more, for example.) But I would look into professional help. Deaf children can get very frustrated if they can't communicate.

Answer 4

There is a a great book called "The Complete Idiots Guide To Teaching Your Baby Sigh Language". It teaches the basics and is really thorough. I borrowed it from my local library, but I would suggest buying it. It helped a lot!

Answer 5

This site is a great one.It helped me teach my son,who is speech delayed.The most important part is to use the sign while you are showing him the physical object,they pick it up very quickly.

Answer 6

It is easier than you think! The hardest part is training yourself to remember to use it at all times with him.

Answer 7

teach him finger spelling with the alphabet then when you find something he wants hold it up and sign it to him before giving it to him