Sign language is a great way to communicate with your child before they are capable of speech. But did you know signing can help your child learn to sing?

The connection between song, hand actions, and language has been a tradition in children’s music for hundreds of years. Actions that parallel the content of the lyrics help children to learn language more quickly and thoroughly.

At Rainbow Songs we combine ASL signs with other simplified signs in our songs to increase connection between words and actions. Using signs helps children to learn words, then lyrics, then the structure of songs. The actions and signs help the children remember both what verse they are singing and what part of the verse they are in.

We use mostly familiar songs to teach signs so we can focus on learning signs, not on learning songs.

Other sign language tips:

• Make sure your baby sees your hands clearly. This is key to helping them make the connection between the sign and the word
• Stay consistent with your signs. Use them frequently—every time you engage in the activity or say the word
• Don’t set aside time to sign, just incorporate it into your day, keeping it simple and fun
• Don’t worry about teaching all the signs at once; just choose a few to start. When you think your baby is getting the hang of it and signing back, you can slowly add more signs to their repertoire

Sign up for a Rainbow Songs class today, and make sign and singing a great part of your life with your child!

Some Useful Signs