Important notice, in 2014, Kindermusik discontinued the Sign and Sing program, and has incorporated most of the content into their regular classes for babies, such as the Village, Cuddle & Bounce, Sing & Play, and even some in the Our Time or Wiggle & Grow curriculum (a little older).  See my newest article about why and how we use sign language with babies in our Kindermusik classes:  MORE Connections with Signs for Babies

This previous article includes some excellent videos, one on the benefits, and one with a cute baby signing so many different words !

Kindermusik Sign and Sing teaches parents to use sign language with their infants and young children. 

In my current summer class in Lakeland, FL, children from 8 months to 19 months, and their parents, are participating in fun activities that allow ample opportunity for everyone to experience and practice sign language.  Some are just starting to experience signs, several toddlers already know several signs and are ready to expand their vocabulary.  These classes, and the home materials, provide great knowledge and tools for parents to learn techniques that help them feel comfortable in making sign language a part of the daily routine.  The techniques in the Kindermusik Sign and Sing are also specifically designed to promote the child’s desire to use the signs themselves.

Kindermusik Sign and Sing helps parents use the tool of sign language to increase a baby’s ability to communicate, which in turn reduces frustration and builds confidence. This can be done way before a child has the motor skills allowing them to speak.  With ALL ages of children, using sign language also assists in their abilty to relate symbols to objects, things, and even such abstract concepts as emotions, because it pairs a visual cue to what they see, what they want, or how they feel.  When a parent consistently uses sign language along with verbal words when communicating with their child, the SIGNED words stand out to the child, helping them focus on the most important words in a sentence.

Of course, there are many programs that offer this type of training to families, but we all share the same goals.  I was impressed with this video that explains the benefits of using sign language with babies, young children, and children with language difficulties.  It represents a different program, but the information and the testimonials focus so well of WHY we all feel it is so important for families.

Enjoy this video:

Benefits of Baby Sign Language

 

One of the best benefits is the fascinating aspect of watching a very young child use sign language.  This little girl is adorable, and knows a LOT of signs.  I LOVE that she uses her words along with the signs so much. Enjoy!

Baby Sign Language: Cute baby signing Shrek

 

I reviewed a lot of video clips of children signing.  It is a wonder to watch these children.  Most all of the videos I saw were presented in a “showcase” format, with a continuous “show me the sign for…”   I was only disappointed that I was unable to find a video clip showing a real interactive experience between a parent and a child using sign language, a playing or eating situation where they were actually communicating.  If someone knows where I can find such video clips, I would be grateful.

I have lots more to share with you on this subject.  Keep in touch!

Merry Melodies,
Debbie Mondale