They both used American Sign Language gestures - a style recommended by Joseph Garcia, a researcher and author of Sign With Your Baby . Garcia, who began studying baby signs in 1987 as part of his master's program at Alaska Pacific University, says he prefers using a standardized language to making up signs in order to maintain consistency. Once baby signing becomes more widespread, he envisions babies being able to communicate with a variety of caregivers, from teachers to sitters. However, Acredolo recommends making up signs so that parents don't have to learn another language. To Three, a nonprofit organization aimed at promoting the healthy development of babies and toddlers, says no matter what style parents adopt, they should continue to use their voices when they sign.
Many babies gesture before they talk.
They do all kinds of things. I think it's fine, as long as it's enjoyable for both parent and child. Parents should not push signing on their children, experts say. Infants do not learn through formal instruction. The best way to get started is for parents to incorporate signs into their everyday situations with their babies.