Signing to Babies

Sign space is important when using American Sign Language as a second language (or first language). When teaching babies sign language or person who has limited mobility or fine motor skills, observe how the child interprets the sign. Signing the word water requires your dominant hand to be in the shape of the letter W using your pointer, middle and ring finger. Move the W shape to your mouth tapping your pointer finger underneath your bottom lip. You have now signed the word, water. Check out www.aslpro.com dictionary for a visual. As the parent or teacher, always sign the word correctly. However, if a child signs water closer to their nose or cheek, uses all five fingers instead of three or taps under their chin understand this non verbal communication as water. The formality of the word can be learned later as the child develops. In the meantime, allow flexibility with the sign.