Inspired by National ASL Day? Here’s How to Start Signing with Your Baby
Inspired by National ASL Day? If you’re wondering how to start baby sign language, you’re not alone—and it’s easier than you might think.
Every year on April 15, National ASL Day celebrates the beauty and importance of American Sign Language (ASL). While ASL is a complete and rich language used by the Deaf community, many families are also discovering how simple signs can help hearing babies communicate before they can talk.
The best part? You don’t need to wait for a special day to begin. You can start today. Getting started with baby sign language can be as simple as adding a few signs into your daily routine.
Why Start Baby Sign Language Now?
Babies have so much to say—but without words, it can lead to frustration for both babies and caregivers. The Baby Signs® Program gives babies a way to express their needs, thoughts, and feelings using simple, meaningful signs.
👉 Learn more about how the program works: https://babysigns.com/
Research-supported benefits include:
- Reduced frustration and fewer tears
- Stronger bonding between babies and caregivers
- Support for early language development
- Increased confidence and connection
5 Easy Signs to Start With Today
You don’t need to learn dozens of signs to begin. Start with a few that naturally fit into your daily routine.
- MORE
- Perfect for mealtime, playtime, or anything your baby enjoys.
- MILK
- Use during feeding times to help your baby express hunger.
- EAT
- A helpful sign for meals and snacks.
- HELP
- Empowers your baby to ask for assistance instead of becoming frustrated.
- ALL DONE
- Helps your baby signal when they’re finished—no guessing needed.
Tip: Say the word, make the sign, and repeat consistently during real-life moments.
The MILK sign is often one of the first baby sign language signs families start with.
Watch how simple the ASL sign for MILK is to learn and use with your baby:
Start by using this sign during feeding times and repeat it consistently—your baby is learning every time you model it.
Want more simple signs you can start using right away?
Explore the Baby Signs® Quick Reference Guides—featuring 60+ essential signs for everyday routines:
https://babysigns.com/product/baby-signs-quick-reference-guides/
🧠 How to Start (It’s Simpler Than You Think)
You don’t need special training or hours of practice. Just follow these simple steps:
- Start with routines (meals, diaper changes, playtime)
- Use signs consistently while saying the word
- Be patient—babies often understand before they sign back
- Celebrate attempts, even if they’re not perfect
Most babies begin signing back anywhere from 8–16 months, though understanding starts much earlier.
Your baby is always watching and learning—even simple gestures like this can make a big impact.
Will Baby Sign Language Delay Speech?
This is one of the most common concerns—and the answer is reassuring.
Research shows that using signs does not delay speech development. In fact, many studies (including those supported by the NIH) show that signing can actually support and enhance early language skills.
Signing gives babies a foundation for communication—and spoken words naturally follow.
A Simple Way to Start Today
Inspired by National ASL Day, you can begin with just one sign today. Choose a moment—like snack time or playtime—and introduce a sign consistently.
Small moments like these can lead to big breakthroughs in communication. And the best part? You don’t need to be perfect—just consistent.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can start whenever you’d like—many families begin around 6–9 months, but it’s never too early to start modeling signs. Some parents even begin from birth to build the habit. Just like talking, your baby may not respond right away, but they’re learning and taking it all in.
Have more questions? Visit our full FAQ page:
https://babysigns.com/faqs/
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you’re just getting started or ready for more support, here are a few easy ways to continue your baby signing journey:
Start using more signs today
Explore the Baby Signs® Quick Reference Guides—featuring 60+ essential signs for everyday routines:
https://babysigns.com/product/baby-signs-quick-reference-guides/
Find a class near you
Get expert guidance and support from a certified Baby Signs® instructor:
https://babysigns.com/find-a-class/
Learn more about the Baby Signs® Program
Discover how the program helps babies communicate before they can talk:
https://babysigns.com/
Because every baby has something to say—even before they can speak.
