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October 30, 2002

Using Baby Sign Language

From: KXAN-TV, TX
Oct. 30, 2002

There's a new way to communicate to babies: using sign language. Babies learn to control their hands long before they get the hang of talking.

Learning a few basic signs can bridge the communication gap and alleviate a few temper-tantrums.

Parents can model signs at six months or earlier and can expect a response at eight months to a year.

The key is repetition and practice.

"I try to encourage parents to always use spoken word along with the sign. For example, saying the word 'water' every time you show the sign for water," Denise Meyer, baby sign language instructor, said.

Research also indicates children who sign as babies have higher verbal, reading and writing skills as well as higher IQ's.

For more information on baby sign language, log onto www.sign2me.com.

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