Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with the Baby Signs® Program

Fun, Festive Ways to Add a Little Luck o’ the Irish to Your Baby’s Early Learning

Saint Patrick’s Day is the perfect excuse to dress in green, enjoy festive treats, and spend quality time with your little one. But did you know you can also celebrate by incorporating baby sign language into the holiday fun? Below, we’ll explore a few simple signs, playful activities, and creative tips that bring the luck of the Irish to your child’s early communication journey.

Festive Signs to Try

Green

In American Sign Language (ASL), “green” is made by forming the letter G (thumb and index finger extended, other fingers curled) and shaking it slightly near your chest.

Rainbow

Move open hand in an arch front of face—like drawing the arch of a rainbow.

Gold

Touch your earlobe with your index finger, then move your hand away as you form the letter Y (thumb and pinky extended, other fingers curled). This sign looks similar to “yellow” but starts at the ear to indicate “gold.”

St. Patrick’s Day Activities with a Signing Twist

Rainbow Scavenger Hunt

• What You’ll Do: Gather items around the house in each color of the rainbow—clothes, toys, snacks, etc.
• Signing Tip: When your baby finds something green, red, or yellow, show them the corresponding sign. For anything gold—like shiny party decor—sign “gold” to celebrate the discovery!

Shamrock Crafts

• What You’ll Do: Cut shamrock shapes from green paper and let your baby finger-paint or stamp dots on them.
• Signing Tip: Use the sign for “green” often. If you add gold glitter or stickers, point to them and sign “gold.”

Dress-Up Fun

• What You’ll Do: Dress your baby (and yourself!) in green outfits or accessories like hats or headbands, plus a touch of gold if you have it.
• Signing Tip: Each time you say “green,” pair it with the sign. For gold accents (like shiny shoes), sign “gold” to highlight the sparkly addition.

Teach Through Stories & Songs

• Books: Choose a St. Patrick’s Day board book or one featuring rainbows and gold coins. When you spot something green or gold, pause to show the sign.
• Songs & Rhymes: Sing simple Irish tunes or nursery rhymes about rainbows, pots of gold, and leprechauns. Incorporate the signs for “rainbow,” “gold,” and “green” to keep things fun and interactive.

Keep It Positive and Playful

St. Patrick’s Day may be all about fun and folklore, but it’s also a golden opportunity to weave baby sign language into your holiday traditions. Consistency and repetition are key:

• Pair each sign with the spoken word.
• Offer enthusiastic praise whenever your baby attempts a sign (no matter how imperfect).
• Make signing feel like part of the celebration—an exciting game rather than a chore.

Celebrate Colors with “Our Rainbow World” Class

Want to keep exploring the vibrant world of colors even after St. Patrick’s Day? Check out Our Rainbow World—a 45-minute class packed with fun activities and games to help children (ages 18 months to 4 years) discover and classify the colors in the world around them. You’ll learn ASL color signs and see firsthand how introducing colors supports the intellectual skill called “classification.” Whether you’re just starting out with baby signs or looking to expand your child’s color vocabulary, this class offers a playful, hands-on way to continue the excitement sparked by the holiday. Find a class near you!

From spotting all things “green” to emphasizing “gold” in shiny decorations, St. Patrick’s Day can be a lively chance to reinforce the Baby Signs® Program. With simple signs, festive crafts, and a focus on fun, your little one will feel like they’ve found their own pot of gold—better communication skills, stronger bonds, and a memorable holiday celebration. And if you’re ready to build on this excitement year-round, Our Rainbow World has you covered!

Happy St. Patrick’s Day—and happy signing!