Empowering Parents and Babies: Jasmine Wooster’s Journey with the Baby Signs® Program

Jasmine Wooster’s passion for early childhood education and family support shines through in her work as a certified Baby Signs® instructor. Based in Somerset County, Maryland, Jasmine is also an Early Childhood Parent Organizer with the local Judy Center. Her journey into teaching Baby Signs® began when she received a forwarded email about becoming a certified instructor. Already familiar with signing from teaching her own son, she immediately saw the program’s potential to complement her background in early childhood education. It was a perfect match, and she jumped at the opportunity.

For Jasmine, the most rewarding aspect of teaching as a certified Baby Signs® instructor is witnessing the profound impact early communication has on families. From the first moment parents realize they can understand their child’s needs and emotions through signing, a new connection begins to flourish. Jasmine loves seeing the joy on parents’ faces as they bond with their little ones in ways they never imagined possible. The confidence parents gain as they build this unique form of communication is equally fulfilling.

Jasmine’s personal experience with her son was what originally sparked her passion. When her son Rafe was a toddler, he would sign for help, and Jasmine would respond. One memorable evening while she was cooking, Rafe came to her and signed for “help.” Assuming it was toy-related, she followed him to the living room, and instead of grabbing a toy, he signed “help” again but this time followed by the sign for “water“— his straw had come loose from his cup! This small yet profound moment showcased how signing reduced frustration and allowed for effective communication, even before her son could speak. It was situations like these that inspired her to help other families experience the same.

Jasmine has been teaching Baby Signs® classes for just a few months, but it feels like second nature to her. The program’s ability to help infants express themselves before they can speak significantly enhances the bond between caregiver and child, leading to greater understanding and reduced frustration. Jasmine often sees caregivers grow more attuned to their child’s emotions and cues, building a sense of security and confidence in their parenting.

Her advice for parents or professionals interested in teaching babies to sign is simple: start small and be consistent. Choosing a few key signs like “more,” “milk,” or “all done,” and using them regularly in context helps babies associate the gestures with their meaning. Making signing fun by incorporating songs, stories, and playful interactions helps to keep little ones engaged.

In addition to her role at Once Upon A Sign, Jasmine will be offering Baby Signs® classes throughout the community, including the YMCA, libraries, and Healthy Families community services. Her dedication to family engagement doesn’t stop there—Jasmine also sponsors her local 4H club, showing her commitment to enriching the lives of children and families in her area.

Through her work with the Judy Center and her outreach in the community, Jasmine has seen firsthand how the Baby Signs® program has positively impacted both children and their caregivers. Many parents report that signing has not only reduced frustration but also enhanced their overall experience as caregivers. Being able to communicate with their children from such a young age creates a sense of confidence, understanding, and joy that ripples through the family.

Jasmine is proud to be part of a program that does more than teach simple signs. The Baby Signs® curriculum includes advanced classes, potty training support, and even babysitter basics. For her, this work is more than just teaching—it’s about creating lasting connections between parents and their children through communication and love.

For more information about Jasmine’s classes and services in the Delmarva Area, Somerset County, Maryland, visit Once Upon A Sign, follow her on Facebook or email onceuponasign@gmail.com.

Visit https://BabySigns.com/teach to learn more about the Baby Signs® Instructor Program or email info@babysigns.com.