Celebrate Your Baby’s Birthday—With Signs!
Your baby’s birthday is more than a milestone—it’s a celebration of everything they’ve learned, discovered, and become in their first year (or two, or three!). And what better way to mark the occasion than by using signs your baby already understands and loves?
Whether it’s their first “cake” or the thrill of a big balloon, using signs during your child’s birthday celebration helps them feel included, understood, and part of the excitement—even if they’re not speaking yet.
🎂 Birthday Signs to Know and Use
These Baby Signs® are perfect for birthday parties and everyday celebrations:
🎈 Balloon – Babies are mesmerized by balloons! Signing “balloon” helps them point it out again and again.
🎂 Cake – Babies love birthday treats! Signing “cake” builds vocabulary around a sweet moment.
🕯️ Candle – Signing “candle” before blowing it out helps babies anticipate the fun.
🎶 Song/music – Signing “song” while singing Happy Birthday shows babies how to join in the celebration.
😀 Happy – Reinforce the joyful emotions of the day by signing “happy” as you talk about the celebration.
🍦 Ice Cream – If your celebration includes a sweet, chilly treat, don’t forget this fun and motivating sign!
You can also use everyday signs like “more,” “eat,” “all done,” “thank you,” and “help” to support your child’s needs and reduce frustration during a busy event.
🎁 Make the Most of the Moment
Here are some fun ways to include signs in your baby’s birthday:
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During storytime: Read a birthday-themed book like Happy Birthday, Baby! or use our Circle Time Book Collection Set 2, which features a birthday book with simple rhymes and signs.
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While singing: Add signs to “Happy Birthday” and other party songs so your baby can join in with gestures.
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At the cake table: Sign “cake,” “candle,” “more,” and “eat” to build connections during their favorite part of the day.
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With gifts: Show the sign for “gift” or “thank you” while helping your baby open gifts and engage with loved ones.
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In photos and videos: Capture your baby signing “happy” or “more” on camera—it’s a memory you’ll treasure!
🎉 Birthday Sign Resources We Love
Want help teaching signs before the party? We’ve got you covered:
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🎶 If You’re Happy & You Know It Music — features two birthday songs, Beebo’s Birthday and The Birthday Song, perfect for signing along during the celebration!
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🎈 Birthday Signs Poster Pack — a colorful 6-sign set perfect for classrooms, centers, or birthday décor
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📚 Circle Time Book Collection Set 2 — includes a delightful birthday story built around key signs
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🖐️ Concept Cards Set 2 — features birthday signs in a sturdy, portable card set
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📘 Quick Reference Guide — includes 67 signs (including birthday-themed ones!) in an easy-to-use format
These resources make it easy—and fun—to practice the signs ahead of time, reinforce them during the party, and create memories you’ll cherish.
Want even more support? Our Baby Signs® classes and workshops help you and your child learn signs together through songs, games, and fun celebrations.
💬 A Birthday to Remember
Baby’s birthday isn’t just a party—it’s a chance to connect. Signing during celebrations empowers your little one to be an active part of their special day and shows guests how much they’ve learned!
✨ Do you have a favorite signing memory from your baby’s birthday? Share it with us on social media—we’d love to feature your celebration!
